Name: Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups sifted cake flour (not all-purpose flour); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 oz. red food coloring (two bottles); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 2 eggs, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 lb (2 blocks) cream cheese (not softened); 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, at room temperature; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 2 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that balances rich flavor, moist texture, and a touch of elegance, this Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is absolutely for you. These cupcakes come out irresistibly soft with that signature deep red hue, complemented perfectly by a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself to a timeless classic, this recipe promises cupcakes that are as beautiful as they are delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with bright red batter that looks smooth and thick, with some small lumps visible. A metal whisk with a white and blue handle is resting inside the bowl, coated in the red batter. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. The light shows some shiny spots on the glossy batter, making it look fresh and ready to use. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might be simple, but each plays a crucial role in making these cupcakes unforgettable. From the tender cake flour to the vibrant red food coloring and velvety cream cheese, every component contributes to the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color.

Cake flour: Provides a lighter, softer crumb than all-purpose flour, making the cupcakes tender and delicate.
Baking powder: Ensures the cupcakes rise beautifully and have the perfect lift.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds subtle depth and rich color to the red velvet base.
Red food coloring: Gives the cupcakes their iconic vibrant red hue that’s impossible to resist.
Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create a tender crumb.
Eggs: Bind ingredients and add structure while keeping cupcakes moist.
Vanilla extract: Provides warm, comforting flavor that rounds out the cake perfectly.
Buttermilk: Tenderizes the cupcakes and adds a subtle tang to complement the cream cheese frosting.
White vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to give the cupcakes a light, fluffy rise.
Baking soda: Works with vinegar to help the cupcakes rise and maintain their soft crumb.
Cream cheese: For the frosting, this adds tanginess and creaminess that’s absolutely divine.
Butter (for frosting): Adds silky richness and helps stabilize the cream cheese mixture.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the frosting for that perfect frosting consistency.

How to Make Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Cupcake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees and lining 24 muffin tins with cupcake papers—this ensures even baking and easy cleanup. Sift together your dry ingredients—cake flour, baking powder, and salt—to make sure they’re well combined and aerated. Mix the red food coloring with cocoa powder into a smooth paste; this step is important so your cupcakes get that beautiful, vibrant red without any clumps.

Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about three minutes. This step incorporates air that will help make your cupcakes tender and delicate. Then add the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next, followed by the vanilla extract and your prepared red cocoa paste. Remember to scrape the sides of your bowl for an evenly mixed batter.

Step 3: Combining Dry and Wet Ingredients

Add the dry flour mixture to your butter mixture in thirds, alternating with the buttermilk. This alternating method helps prevent overmixing, which can make cupcakes tough. Once you’ve added all the flour and buttermilk, mix in the fizzing vinegar and baking soda combination. This reaction is what gives the cupcakes their lift and tenderness, so make sure to mix quickly but gently.

Step 4: Baking the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about three-quarters full—using an ice cream scoop is a great trick for uniform size—and bake for around 20-22 minutes. Rotate your pans halfway through baking so everything cooks evenly. Use a toothpick test to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once baked, cool the cupcakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 5: Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cupcakes cool, it’s time to prepare the frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium-high until smooth and creamy—about 2-3 minutes. Then add in the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the sifted powdered sugar, and once incorporated, increase the mixer speed to make your frosting luxuriously smooth and fluffy. This frosting is the perfect balance to the subtle cocoa and tangy buttermilk flavors in the cupcakes.

Step 6: Frosting Your Cupcakes

Once your cupcakes are fully cooled, frost them generously with your cream cheese frosting. You can use a piping bag for neat swirls or simply spread with a knife for a more rustic, homemade look. Either way, these cupcakes will look gorgeous and taste even better!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

The image shows two red velvet cupcakes with smooth white cream on top, swirled in a spiral pattern. One cupcake is whole, while the other one is open, showing a deep red, soft cake inside with a thick layer of white cream on top. A silver fork with a piece of the cupcake rests on a white, decorative plate with a lace-like edge. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your cupcakes elevates their charm and adds a bit of extra flavor or texture. Consider topping your frosted cupcakes with a sprinkle of red sugar crystals, a few chocolate shavings, or a dusting of cocoa powder for visual appeal. Fresh raspberries or edible flowers also make pretty, natural accents that pair wonderfully with the tangy frosting.

Side Dishes

While these cupcakes shine solo, they also pair beautifully with light, complementary treats. A simple fresh fruit salad or a handful of berries enhances the sweetness without overpowering it. For drinks, think about serving a strong black coffee, vanilla milkshake, or a sparkling berry lemonade to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving these cupcakes at a party or special gathering, consider presenting them in a tiered cake stand for an elegant display. Wrapping individual cupcakes in decorative cupcake liners or placing them in clear boxes tied with ribbons makes for fantastic edible gifts. Even stacking them in a “cupcake cake” formation covered with frosting and garnishes can turn heads and delight guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe cupcakes keep best when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting improves in flavor overnight, but storing them chilled prevents any spoilage. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture and taste.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes tightly wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in freezer bags for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them completely before frosting. For frosted cupcakes, flash freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to airtight containers. Thaw in the fridge and allow to come to room temperature before eating.

Reheating

If you enjoy your cupcakes a bit warm, gently warm an unfrosted or plain cupcake in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid microwaving frosted cupcakes as the cream cheese frosting can melt and lose its texture. Room temperature is usually perfect for enjoying these delightful treats.

FAQs

Can I use a boxed cake mix for this Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Absolutely! While this recipe is 100% homemade, you can certainly amp up a quality boxed mix by adding unsweetened cocoa powder, extra vanilla, and red food coloring to mimic that classic red velvet flavor. The cream cheese frosting recipe can be used as is to elevate any cupcake.

Why do I need both vinegar and baking soda in the recipe?

The vinegar and baking soda react to create carbon dioxide bubbles, which act as a natural leavening agent. This reaction is what helps the cupcakes rise light and fluffy, and it’s particularly important in recipes like red velvet that rely on this chemistry rather than just baking powder alone.

Can I substitute the cream cheese for something else in the frosting?

Cream cheese is essential for the tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of this frosting. However, if you’re avoiding dairy, you might try a vegan cream cheese alternative. Keep in mind the taste and texture might vary slightly.

How do I get the perfect red color without affecting the taste?

Use gel or liquid red food coloring added as part of the cocoa paste to get that vibrant hue without altering the cupcake’s flavor. Avoid adding too much coloring as it can sometimes add a bitter taste or be overpowering.

Is it okay to make the frosting a day ahead?

Yes, the frosting can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it back to room temperature and re-whip briefly before spreading to restore its creamy, fluffy texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about these Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Between their striking color, tender crumb, and luscious frosting, they’re guaranteed to impress whether you’re baking for a crowd or a cozy evening treat. Don’t hesitate—grab your mixing bowl and whip up a batch today. You’ll find these cupcakes become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection before you know it.