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Quick Red Velvet Heart Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting - featured image

These quick and easy red velvet cupcakes are tender, moist, and topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for weeknights, Valentine’s Day, or any occasion that calls for a special treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, buttermilk, egg, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Pour dry ingredients into wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide batter evenly among the 12 liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
  6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  7. Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  8. For the frosting: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
  9. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
  10. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated. Increase speed to medium-high and beat for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  11. Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost with cream cheese frosting using a piping bag or offset spatula.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for best results. Do not overmix the batter. Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting. For a deeper red color, use gel food coloring. Frosting can be refrigerated for 15-20 minutes before piping for a firmer texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet cupcakes, cream cheese frosting, quick dessert, Valentine's Day, easy cupcakes