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Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

The Best Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe: Moist Enough to Melt in Your Mouth

There’s something irresistibly charming about red velvet cupcakes. The luxurious crimson hue, the subtle chocolate flavor with a tangy twist, and the decadent cream cheese frosting combine to create a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

I’ve baked dozens of red velvet recipes, tweaking and perfecting along the way, and I’m thrilled to share the best red velvet cupcakes recipe—moist, homemade, and easy to whip up from scratch.

So, whether you’re baking for a party, a romantic date, or simply to treat yourself, these cupcakes will not disappoint. Plus, I’ll share decorating tips and filling ideas to make them truly unforgettable. Let’s get started!

This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. Please read our full disclosure here to find out more.

The Best Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe: Moist Enough to Melt in Your Mouth

Why Red Velvet Cupcakes Are So Special

What sets red velvet cupcakes apart isn’t just their striking appearance. It’s the unique combination of flavors—a subtle cocoa undertone balanced by the creamy tang of buttermilk and vinegar. Add a dollop of cream cheese frosting, and you’ve got a dessert that feels both indulgent and sophisticated.

But these aren’t just delicious; they’re also incredibly aesthetic—perfect for birthdays, weddings, or even a cozy weekend at home. And the best part? You can make them entirely from scratch with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To achieve that signature moist texture, this recipe calls for a blend of oil, buttermilk, and vinegar. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cupcakes:

  • 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour

  • 2 tablespoons (12g) unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk

  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil

  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring (adjust for desired color)

    • For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

  • 3 ½ cups (440g) powdered sugar, sifted

  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

    • Step-by-Step Guide to the Best Red Velvet Cupcakes

    Step 1: Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  • Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.

    • Pro Tip: Use decorative liners to elevate the aesthetic of your cupcakes.

    Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

  • Set aside.

    • Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and eggs until light and fluffy.

  • Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Whisk until smooth.

    • Step 4: Combine and Bake

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

  • Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

  • Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  • Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.

    • Recommended Product #1: Wilton Muffin Pan

    For perfect cupcakes, a high-quality muffin pan is essential. I swear by the Wilton Perfect Results Premium Non-Stick Muffin Pan for even baking and easy cleanup. Its durable, non-stick coating ensures your cupcakes slide out effortlessly every time.

    Click here to grab your Wilton Muffin Pan and bake like a pro!

    Adding the Filling

    Want to surprise your guests? Fill your cupcakes with something extra!

  • Cream Cheese Filling: Beat together 4 oz (115g) softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

  • How to Fill: Use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake, then pipe or spoon the filling inside before replacing the tops.

    • Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

    1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

    2. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until fully incorporated.

    3. Stir in vanilla extract for that classic cream cheese flavor.

    Pro Tip: If you prefer stiffer frosting for piping, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes before use.

    Recommended Product #2: Piping Bag and Tip Set

    For perfectly frosted cupcakes, a piping set is a game-changer. I love the Ateco 14-Piece Piping Set for its versatility and durability. It includes a variety of tips to create elegant swirls or intricate designs.

    Level up your cupcake decorating with the Ateco Piping Set! Order yours here.

    Decorating Your Cupcakes

    Now comes the fun part: decorating!

  • Sprinkles: Choose sprinkles that match the occasion—red for Valentine’s Day, green for Christmas, or gold for a glam touch.

  • Piping Designs: Use a star tip to create elegant swirls, or try a round tip for a minimalist look.

    • Recommended Book: The Joy of Baking by Samantha Seneviratne

    For baking enthusiasts, The Joy of Baking is a must-have. This book offers a treasure trove of recipes, tips, and techniques to elevate your baking game.

    Dive deeper into the world of baking with The Joy of Baking! Get your copy here.

    Why This Recipe Stands Out

    What makes this the best red velvet cupcakes recipe moist, aesthetic, and simple to make?

  • The perfect blend of ingredients ensures a moist, tender crumb.

  • It’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions.

  • Customizable with fillings, cream cheese frosting, and sprinkles for endless creativity.

    • These cupcakes are more than just a dessert—they’re an experience. Baking them from scratch adds a personal touch that’s unmatched by store-bought treats.

    As I tested and perfected this recipe, I found joy in experimenting with fillings, frosting techniques, and decorations. The result is a cupcake that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning—a true labor of love.

    So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and bake a batch of the best red velvet cupcakes recipe moist enough to melt in your mouth. Trust me; they’re worth every bite!

    If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts and see your creations. Share your pictures and tag me—happy baking!

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