Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe – Moist, Fluffy & Perfect

Red velvet cupcakes are a classic dessert loved for their soft, fluffy texture, striking red color, and a hint of cocoa flavor. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, they strike the perfect balance between sweetness and tanginess. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, a holiday celebration, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe is foolproof and guarantees bakery-style results at home.

Nutrition & Instructions

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 30 minutes (cooling time)
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert
• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Calories per Serving: ~280 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Muffin tin
• Cupcake liners
• Wire cooling rack
• Piping bag (for frosting, optional)

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cupcakes:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• ½ cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp white vinegar
• 1 tbsp red food coloring

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).

Step 4: Add Egg and Flavorings

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.

Step 5: Add Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the batter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Add Food Coloring

Stir in the red food coloring until the batter is evenly tinted. Adjust the amount if needed.

Step 7: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.

Step 10: Frost and Serve

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the frosting on top. Enjoy!

Tips for Best Results

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures a smooth batter and frosting.
• Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can make the cupcakes dense instead of fluffy.
• Chill the Frosting – If it becomes too soft, refrigerate for 10 minutes before piping.

Pairing Suggestions

These cupcakes go well with:

• A glass of cold milk or coffee
• Fresh berries on the side
• A drizzle of melted white chocolate for extra indulgence

Conclusion

This Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe is easy to follow and produces moist, delicious cupcakes every time. Perfect for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or just because—give it a try and enjoy these classic treats!