Description
Classic Red Velvet Valentine Cupcakes are moist, tender, and perfectly red-hued treats topped with creamy and rich cream cheese frosting. These cupcakes melt hearts with their delicate cocoa flavor balanced with a smooth, tangy frosting, making them a perfect sweet gift for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion.
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 Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners to ensure easy removal after baking and to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir them well to evenly distribute all dry components.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until well blended.
- Mix Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently combine until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the cupcakes tender.
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Place the cupcake pan in the oven and bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cupcakes are fully baked.
- Cool Cupcakes: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan or on a wire rack before frosting, ensuring the frosting will not melt.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy and spreadable.
- Frost and Decorate: Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost each cupcake generously with the cream cheese frosting. Decorate as desired for a festive Valentine’s presentation.
Notes
- Ensure all your ingredients (buttermilk, eggs) are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Check cupcakes a few minutes before the minimum baking time to prevent overbaking and dryness.
- Use gel food coloring for more vibrant red cupcakes without altering the batter consistency.
- For extra decorative flair, top with heart sprinkles or edible glitter suitable for Valentine’s Day.
- If cream cheese frosting is too soft, chill it briefly before spreading.
