Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to indulge in decadent, homemade treats, and these Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are sure to impress. Their striking red color, rich cocoa flavor, and velvety texture make them a timeless favorite. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and festive sprinkles, they are as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re baking for a loved one or treating yourself, these cupcakes will add a touch of romance to your celebration.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
1 tsp white vinegar
1 tbsp red food coloring
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For Decoration:
Heart-shaped sprinkles
Red and pink sugar pearls
Instructions
Preheat Oven & Prep – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream Butter & Sugar – In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Combine Ingredients – Stir in the buttermilk, vinegar, and red food coloring. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Bake – Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.
Prepare Frosting – Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
Decorate – Pipe or spread frosting onto cupcakes. Garnish with heart-shaped sprinkles and sugar pearls.
Cook & Prep Times
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Baking Pro Tips
Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and frosting.
Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cupcakes tender.
Chill the frosting for 15 minutes before piping for a firmer texture.
Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red hue without altering the batter consistency.
Store cupcakes in the fridge but let them sit at room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
These Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are the perfect way to celebrate love and sweetness on Valentine’s Day. Their rich flavor, velvety texture, and stunning presentation make them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a special someone or sharing with friends, these cupcakes are sure to spread joy. Enjoy every bite and make this Valentine’s Day extra special!