Indulge in the delightful world of baking this Valentine’s Day with these scrumptious Red Velvet Cupcakes. These rich and velvety treats are the perfect way to spread love and sweetness to your friends, family, or that special someone. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will guide you through creating these decadent cupcakes that are sure to impress.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon white vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
**Cream Cheese Frosting:**
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. **Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
6. **Red Velvet Mixture**: In a small bowl, combine the red food coloring and vinegar. Add this mixture to the batter and mix well.
7. **Baking Powder**: In a small bowl, mix the baking powder with a little water to activate it, then quickly fold it into the batter until just combined.
8. **Fill Cupcake Liners**: Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling them about two-thirds full.
9. **Bake**: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. **Cool**: Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. **Cream Cheese Frosting**: While the cupcakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
12. **Add Sugar and Vanilla**: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and creamy.
13. **Frost Cupcakes**: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting.
14. **Decorate**: For a festive touch, you can sprinkle some red sugar crystals or heart-shaped sprinkles on top of the cupcakes.
15. **Serve and Enjoy**: These Red Velvet Cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
There you have it! A simple and delightful recipe for Red Velvet Cupcakes that will surely make your Valentine’s Day sweeter. Whether you’re baking for your loved ones or hosting a cozy gathering, these cupcakes are a lovely way to spread happiness and love through the joy of baking.
