Craving a decadent treat that combines the rich flavors of red velvet with the creamy goodness of cream cheese frosting? Look no further! These red velvet cream cheese cupcakes are a delightful fusion of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. The velvety texture of the cake paired with the tangy sweetness of the cream cheese frosting creates a match made in dessert heaven.
Ingredients
Creating these decadent red velvet cream cheese cupcakes requires a careful selection of ingredients to achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
For the Cupcakes
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 ounce red food coloring
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: additional powdered sugar for sturdier frosting, if desired
Equipment Needed
For making these delicious red velvet cream cheese cupcakes, you will need to ensure you have the following equipment on hand:
Stand Mixer or Electric Beater
Utilize a stand mixer on medium-high speed or an electric beater set to high speed to achieve the perfect creamy consistency for the cream cheese frosting. This equipment is essential for creating a smooth and fluffy frosting that will adorn your cupcakes beautifully.
Mixing Bowls
Prepare an assortment of mixing bowls for combining your dry and wet cupcake ingredients separately. This will ensure even distribution and proper incorporation of all the elements, resulting in a perfectly balanced cupcake texture.
Piping Bag with Piping Tip
To elegantly frost your red velvet cupcakes with the cream cheese frosting, have a piping bag at the ready along with your preferred piping tip. This equipment will allow you to achieve those beautifully swirled and high peaks of frosting on each cupcake, adding a touch of artistry to your dessert.
Measuring Tools
Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, so make sure you have measuring cups and spoons to precisely portion out your ingredients. From flour to powdered sugar, each component plays a vital role in the overall taste and texture of your cupcakes, so be diligent in measuring each one correctly.
Oven and Cupcake Pan
Preheat your oven to the specified temperature and have your cupcake pan lined and ready for filling. The oven will bake your red velvet cupcakes to perfection, while the cupcake pan ensures uniform size and shape for each delightful treat.
Ensure you have all these essential pieces of equipment ready before starting the baking process to make your red velvet cream cheese cupcakes with ease and precision.
Prep Work
When it comes to making these red velvet cream cheese cupcakes, prepping the ingredients and getting your equipment ready is crucial for successful baking.
Preparing the Ingredients
I always like to gather and measure out all my ingredients before starting any baking project. For this recipe, make sure your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature, and have your flour, cocoa powder, buttermilk, and red food coloring ready to go.
Preheating and Line Cupcake Pans
Before diving into the baking process, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure it’s ready when you need it. Line your cupcake pans with liners or grease them as per your preference to have them all set for filling with the delicious red velvet cupcake batter.
Directions
Let’s dive into creating these scrumptious red velvet cream cheese cupcakes with precision and care.
Making the Cupcake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cocoa powder.
- Add butter, red food coloring, and egg to the dry ingredients, and mix until fully combined.
- Incorporate oil, egg yolks, and vanilla into the batter until smooth.
- Mix in vinegar and food coloring to achieve the desired red hue.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk in three additions, finishing with the dry ingredients.
- Gently fold in whipped egg whites for a silky batter.
- Spoon the batter into cupcake liners, filling them 2/3 full.
- Place the filled muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-21 minutes.
- Check for doneness by lightly touching the cupcakes’ tops; they should spring back.
- Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake to ensure it comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- Remove the cupcakes from the pan and let them cool completely before frosting.
These steps will guide you through the process of making and baking these delightful red velvet cream cheese cupcakes.
Frosting Preparation
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
To create a velvety smooth and decadent cream cheese frosting for your red velvet cupcakes, begin by ensuring your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, egg, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This step is crucial as it sets the foundation for a luscious filling in your cupcakes.
Decorating Ideas
When it comes to decorating red velvet cream cheese cupcakes, the options are endless. Here are some creative ideas to make your cupcakes visually appealing and even more delicious:
Simple Swirl with a Spatula
For a classic and elegant look, simply spread the cream cheese frosting on top of the cupcakes using a spatula. This method creates a smooth finish that highlights the rich red color of the cupcakes.
Swirly Swirl with a Piping Tip
To add a decorative touch, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip to create beautiful swirls of frosting on top of the cupcakes. This technique adds a touch of elegance and texture to your cupcakes.
Basic Swirl without Ruffles
For a more minimalistic approach, pipe a basic swirl of frosting on top of the cupcakes without any additional ruffles or decorations. This simple yet charming design is perfect for those who prefer a clean and understated look.
Get Creative!
Feel free to experiment with different decorating techniques such as adding sprinkles, edible glitter, or even fresh berries on top of the cupcakes. Let your imagination run wild and create a stunning presentation that will impress your family and friends.
Storage Instructions
After baking these delightful red velvet cream cheese cupcakes, you might want to store them properly to maintain their freshness and flavor. Here’s how I recommend storing these delicious treats for the best results:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to enjoy the cupcakes within 1-2 days, storing them at room temperature is ideal. Place the cupcakes in an airtight container or cover them loosely with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can keep the cupcakes in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture. Before serving, allow the cupcakes to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to bring them back to their original texture.
- Freezing: If you want to save some cupcakes for future indulgence, freezing is a great option. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cupcakes, transfer them to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Once thawed, you can bring them to room temperature before serving, or gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer a slightly warm treat.
By following these storage instructions, you can ensure that your red velvet cream cheese cupcakes remain moist, delicious, and perfectly preserved for whenever you have a craving for a sweet and tangy dessert.
Conclusion
Creating red velvet cream cheese cupcakes is a delightful experience that combines the richness of red velvet with the smoothness of cream cheese frosting. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily whip up a batch of these delectable treats to enjoy with family and friends. Remember to store your cupcakes properly to maintain their freshness and savor them for longer periods. Experiment with different decorations to add a personal touch and elevate the visual appeal of your desserts. Get creative in the kitchen and let your imagination run wild as you explore the endless possibilities of red velvet cream cheese cupcakes. Happy baking!