Description
Classic Red Velvet Valentine Cupcakes are moist, tender, and beautifully red, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that melts hearts with every bite. Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, these cupcakes combine a rich cocoa flavor with a hint of tanginess from buttermilk and vinegar, all wrapped up in a creamy, sweet frosting.
Ingredients
Scale
Cupcake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners to ensure easy removal and a neat presentation.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt to evenly distribute all dry ingredients.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until fully incorporated.
- Make the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensure a tender texture.
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Using a spoon or scoop, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter for proper rise and shape.
- Bake the Cupcakes: Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool the Cupcakes: Remove cupcakes from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before applying frosting to prevent it from melting.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fluffy and well combined.
- Frost and Decorate: Once cupcakes are completely cooled, generously frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag. Decorate as desired for a festive touch.
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for smooth frosting.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes light and fluffy.
- Red food coloring can be adjusted for a deeper or lighter red hue.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
