Red Velvet Cupcakes – Moist and Fluffy
Red Velvet Cupcakes are a decadent treat, known for their moist, fluffy texture and striking red color, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. The subtle cocoa flavor paired with a tangy buttermilk base makes these cupcakes a delightful indulgence, perfect for parties or as an everyday treat. If you love a hint of chocolate with a vibrant twist, these cupcakes will be a hit. This recipe is simple to follow and yields bakery-quality results.
Ingredients
-
For the Cupcakes
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel or liquid)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
-
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Mix dry ingredients. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Cream butter and sugar. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well combined.
Add dry ingredients and buttermilk. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter-sugar mix, alternating with the buttermilk. Start with the dry ingredients and end with them, mixing until just combined.
Add food coloring and vinegar. Stir in the red food coloring and vinegar until the batter is evenly red.
Fill cupcake liners. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and beat until creamy and well combined.
Frost the cupcakes. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting using a piping bag or spatula.
Recipe tips
For extra moist cupcakes, make sure not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Use room temperature ingredients for both the cupcakes and frosting, as they combine more smoothly and create a lighter texture. For deeper red color, use gel food coloring, which is more concentrated than liquid food coloring. Try adding a dash of lemon zest to the frosting for a citrusy kick that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese flavor.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Strawberry shortcake is the perfect dessert for summer, featuring soft, buttery shortcake biscuits topped with juicy strawberries and fresh whipped cream. This classic treat is light, slightly sweet, and bursting with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a holiday or just want a simple dessert, strawberry shortcake offers a delightful balance of textures and freshness.
This moist and flavorful Carrot Cake is packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. It's the perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a balance of sweetness and spice, along with a soft texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you're making it for a family gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this carrot cake will never disappoint.
The iconic New York Cheesecake is a creamy, dense, and rich dessert that satisfies with every bite. This version has a smooth, velvety texture thanks to cream cheese and sour cream, with a slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a timeless recipe that makes for an impressive treat at any gathering or holiday.
Pumpkin pie is a classic dessert that's especially popular during the fall and winter months. With its creamy pumpkin filling and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, it’s a comforting treat that's easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply craving a seasonal dessert, this recipe delivers a delicious and aromatic pie that will leave everyone wanting more.
Nothing beats the rich, fudgy goodness of homemade brownies! These chocolatey treats are perfect for a dessert, snack, or to share with friends. They're soft, moist, and bursting with the perfect balance of cocoa and sweetness. You can make them with basic pantry ingredients, and in no time, you'll have a batch of decadent brownies to enjoy!
Tres Leches Cake is a classic Latin American dessert that's wonderfully moist and rich. The name “Tres Leches” translates to “three milks,” referring to the three types of milk used to soak the cake: evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. This light, spongy cake absorbs the creamy mixture, resulting in a delightful texture that’s both soft and decadent, yet not too sweet. It’s often topped with whipped cream, making it a perfect treat for special occasions or a delicious dessert to enjoy any time.
Tiramisu is a classic Italian dessert that combines layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a rich and creamy mascarpone filling, topped with a dusting of cocoa powder. This no-bake dessert is perfect for anyone who loves a blend of sweet, creamy, and slightly bitter flavors. It's easy to make, and with a bit of chill time, the flavors come together beautifully.
Peach cobbler is the perfect dessert for when you’re craving something warm, fruity, and comforting. The sweet, juicy peaches are topped with a golden, buttery crust that comes together easily in one dish. Whether you’re using fresh, frozen, or canned peaches, this classic Southern dessert is always a hit. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an irresistible treat.
A warm, homemade apple pie is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. The buttery, flaky crust holds a filling of tender, spiced apples, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Whether served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, this apple pie will bring comfort and joy to any table. Follow this simple, step-by-step guide to baking a delightful apple pie that your family and friends will love!
S’mores are the perfect campfire treat! This classic dessert combines toasted marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers for a deliciously gooey and sweet treat. Whether you're roasting marshmallows by the fire or making them in the oven, these are sure to be a hit for any outdoor (or indoor!) gathering. Simple to make, S’mores bring nostalgia and flavor in every bite.
Fudge brownies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate flavor and chewy texture. These decadent treats are easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re baking them for a snack, a dessert, or a special occasion, these brownies are sure to satisfy any chocolate craving. The secret to their moist and fudgy center lies in using real butter and high-quality chocolate. Follow these steps for a batch of irresistible brownies that will impress everyone!
Pecan Pie is a classic dessert, perfect for special occasions or just when you want to treat yourself with a rich, nutty, and buttery delight. This pie is filled with a gooey, caramel-like filling, packed with crunchy pecans, and encased in a flaky crust. It's a simple yet indulgent recipe, ideal for fall gatherings or holiday dinners. Follow this easy-to-make recipe and enjoy the irresistible combination of sweetness and crunch!
The Philly Cheesesteak is a mouthwatering sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Originating from Philadelphia, this iconic dish is made with thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all piled into a soft hoagie roll. The combination of savory flavors and gooey cheese makes it irresistible. Whether you're cooking for yourself or serving guests, this easy recipe will bring the flavors of Philly right into your kitchen!
Miso Soup is a light, flavorful, and comforting Japanese dish that's perfect for any meal. The umami-rich miso paste combined with dashi broth, tofu, seaweed, and green onions creates a nourishing bowl that’s both easy to make and full of authentic flavor. It’s great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and you can customize it with your favorite ingredients.
Who doesn’t love the comforting taste of Pigs in a Blanket? This easy, family-friendly recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or whenever you need a crowd-pleasing dish in a pinch. Juicy sausages wrapped in buttery, flaky crescent dough—these little bites of goodness are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're preparing a fun breakfast, a midday snack, or an appetizer for a party, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
This vibrant Quinoa Salad is a refreshing, healthy dish packed with nutrients. Combining the nutty flavor of quinoa with fresh vegetables, tangy lemon juice, and a hint of olive oil, this salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a satisfying snack, it’s a meal that will leave you feeling nourished and energized. The best part? It’s gluten-free, vegan, and loaded with plant-based protein!
Flaky, buttery, and filled with sweet almond paste, Bear Claws are a classic pastry that's perfect for breakfast or a mid-day snack. These delightful pastries are made with puff pastry dough, shaped into a bear claw-like appearance, and filled with a rich almond filling. Topped with sliced almonds and a light drizzle of icing, they make for an irresistible treat that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
Shepherd's Pie is a classic comfort dish that combines savory ground meat, vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. This hearty meal is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner. It's a great way to use up leftovers, and you can customize it to fit your taste by using different meats or adding extra veggies. Let’s dive into making this delicious Shepherd's Pie that everyone will love!
A Greek Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Bursting with flavors from ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and tangy feta cheese, this salad is both satisfying and light. It's perfect for a quick lunch, a side dish at dinner, or a nutritious snack. The addition of Kalamata olives and a simple oregano-infused olive oil dressing gives this salad its authentic Greek taste. This recipe is straightforward, using fresh ingredients to create a colorful and flavorful dish that you'll want to make again and again.
Teriyaki Chicken is a savory and sweet dish with a glossy glaze that clings to tender chicken pieces, giving you that perfect blend of umami flavor. This easy-to-make recipe combines soy sauce, honey, and ginger to create a classic Japanese-style sauce that caramelizes beautifully over the chicken. Ideal for weeknight dinners, it's both quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Spaghetti Bolognese is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner. This Italian classic combines tender ground beef with tomatoes, onions, and herbs, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with spaghetti. It’s an easy recipe that you can tweak to your taste, making it ideal for a homemade meal. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Bolognese sauce will be a hit.
This refreshing cucumber salad is light, crisp, and perfect for a quick, healthy side dish. With the right balance of tangy and sweet, it's ideal for any meal or occasion. The combination of thinly sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a simple vinaigrette dressing creates a dish that's both flavorful and satisfying. Great for summer picnics, barbecues, or a simple weekday lunch, this cucumber salad is as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
A well-curated cheese platter is an effortless yet elegant way to impress your guests. Whether you’re entertaining for a special occasion or indulging in a quiet night at home, a variety of cheeses paired with fruits, nuts, and crackers create a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Customize your platter based on your taste preferences and enjoy a sophisticated snack or appetizer.
This flavorful Cajun Gravy is the perfect way to spice up your meals. Rich with traditional Cajun seasonings, this gravy pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, biscuits, fried chicken, or even rice. Its deep flavors come from a simple roux and bold spices, making it a versatile and satisfying addition to your Southern-inspired dishes.
Shrimp salad is a refreshing and delicious dish, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The tender shrimp, combined with fresh vegetables and a tangy lemon dressing, makes for a vibrant and healthy meal. You can customize the salad with your favorite greens and add-ons like avocado or cherry tomatoes. This recipe is quick to make, perfect for busy days, and offers a balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a great option for those focusing on nutritious meals.
Bruschetta is a simple yet delightful Italian appetizer that brings together fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil atop toasted slices of bread. The vibrant flavors and crunchy texture make it a perfect dish for entertaining or enjoying as a light meal. It's a great way to use up ripe tomatoes and takes very little time to prepare, making it a go-to recipe when you want something quick, delicious, and satisfying.
Cobb Salad is a classic American dish, vibrant and hearty, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a well-balanced and flavorful meal. This salad is packed with a variety of ingredients, making it both filling and nutritious. It combines crisp greens, tender chicken, creamy avocado, tangy blue cheese, hard-boiled eggs, and crunchy bacon, all topped with a tangy vinaigrette. Whether you're making it for lunch, dinner, or a light meal, this salad is sure to satisfy.
A classic margarita is a simple yet refreshing cocktail that combines the tartness of fresh lime juice with the warmth of tequila and a hint of sweetness from orange liqueur. This iconic drink is perfect for warm weather or for when you want to add a festive touch to your meal. The balance of flavors makes it a favorite for any occasion, and it’s easy to make at home with just a few ingredients. Serve it on the rocks with a salted rim for the authentic experience!
Baklava is a rich, sweet dessert made from layers of crispy phyllo dough, filled with a spiced nut mixture, and drenched in a honey-sugar syrup. This Middle Eastern and Mediterranean classic is perfect for special occasions and will impress guests with its flaky texture and indulgent flavors. While it might seem complex, with some patience, you can easily prepare this delightful treat at home.
Deviled eggs are a classic appetizer that never goes out of style. They're perfect for parties, family gatherings, or a simple snack. This recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious, creamy deviled eggs that will impress your guests.
This classic homemade meatloaf is savory, moist, and packed with rich flavors. It's a dish that brings comfort to the table and is loved by everyone for its simplicity and heartiness. The tender loaf is seasoned perfectly with herbs and spices, topped with a slightly sweet and tangy glaze, and baked to perfection. Meatloaf pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad, making it a great option for family dinners or special gatherings.
This herb-infused gravy is rich, flavorful, and perfect for adding a fresh twist to any roast, mashed potatoes, or holiday meal. Infused with a blend of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage, this gravy adds an aromatic depth that complements the natural flavors of your dish. With a velvety texture and savory taste, it's a great addition to elevate any comfort food spread, whether it’s for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner.