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Red velvet cupcakes have become a beloved treat for many, captivating the taste buds and hearts of dessert lovers everywhere. With their striking crimson hue and velvety texture, these cupcakes are not just a feast for the eyes but also a delightful indulgence for the palate. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a wedding, or simply an afternoon craving for something sweet, red velvet cupcakes serve as the perfect centerpiece for any occasion. Their unique flavor profile—a subtle hint of cocoa combined with a tangy cream cheese frosting—makes them an irresistible choice for those who appreciate a little decadence in their dessert repertoire.

Deliciously Decadent Red Velvet Cupcakes

Indulge in the delightful world of red velvet cupcakes, a treat that perfectly blends striking beauty and rich flavor. With their velvety texture and a hint of cocoa, these cupcakes are ideal for any celebration or a sweet afternoon snack. Learn how to create these deliciously moist treats, topped with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your cravings, red velvet cupcakes are a timeless favorite for dessert lovers everywhere.
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon fine sea salt

1 teaspoon cocoa powder

1 cup vegetable oil

1 cup buttermilk, room temperature

2 large eggs, room temperature

2 tablespoons red food coloring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard cupcake pan with paper liners.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

      Blend Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are okay.

          Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

              Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well blended. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.

                  Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting using a knife or piping bag.

                    Decorate: For a festive touch, sprinkle some red velvet crumbs or festive sprinkles on top of the frosting.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | Makes about 12 cupcakes