Who’s ready for a bite of bliss? These red velvet cupcakes are soft, moist, and topped with the fluffiest cream cheese frosting. They’re perfect for any celebration or even just because! Red velvet has that touch of chocolatey richness and vibrant color that makes these cupcakes look as amazing as they taste. Let’s dive in and make some deliciously dreamy cupcakes together!
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – This gives our cupcakes a tender structure. Make sure to measure it correctly by spooning and leveling to avoid a dense texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Adds the right amount of sweetness and helps create a light, fluffy crumb.
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder – Just a hint of cocoa for that signature red velvet flavor!
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – To give the cupcakes a gentle rise, making them light and airy.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cupcakes moist without adding extra flavor.
- ½ cup buttermilk – The acidity in buttermilk is essential for that soft, tender crumb in red velvet. No buttermilk? Mix ½ cup milk with ½ tablespoon vinegar and let sit for 5 minutes.
- 1 large egg – Adds richness and structure to the cupcakes.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar – Helps activate the baking soda and enhances the red color.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Brings a warm, sweet flavor to the cupcakes.
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring – Gives the cupcakes their classic red hue. Adjust the amount based on how vibrant you want the color.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened – The star of the frosting, giving it a smooth, tangy flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds creaminess and helps the frosting hold shape.
- 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A touch of vanilla rounds out the flavor.
