Christmas Cakes

Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes

Name: Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Ingredients: 125g sifted cake flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 10g cocoa powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 60g unsalted butter; 150g white sugar; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence; 120ml buttermilk; 1 tablespoon liquid red food color; 2g baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar; 113g cream cheese; 30g unsalted butter; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence; 175g powdered or icing sugar

Indulge in the delight of Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese frosting!

Indulge in the delight of Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese frosting! These cupcakes are an epitome of airy lightness, with a gentle chocolatey taste. The vibrant red and white hues make them an eye-catching dessert that's perfect for special occasions like Christmas and Valentine's Day.

Make your Valentine's Day celebration sweeter by topping these cupcakes with candy hearts and treating your loved one to a gift of love and sweet indulgence. And if you're a fan of Red Velvet, be sure to check out my Red Velvet Cake recipe too!

So, what are you waiting for? Try these scrumptious Red Velvet Cupcakes and let me know your thoughts in the comments section. Happy baking!

What Is Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes?

Red velvet cupcakes are a classic dessert that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with a hint of tanginess. The main ingredients include cake flour, cocoa powder, buttermilk, and red food coloring, which give the cupcakes their signature color.
The cream cheese frosting adds a creamy and slightly tangy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cupcakes. It's a delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to afternoon tea.

Why You'll Love Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes?

Deliciously Moist and Tender: The red velvet cupcakes recipe yields moist and tender cupcakes that are perfect for any occasion. The buttermilk and vinegar in the recipe contribute to the soft and velvety texture of the cupcakes.
Rich, Indulgent Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and buttermilk gives the cupcakes a rich, indulgent flavor that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The addition of the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy yet sweet element to the cupcakes.
Eye-catching Red Color: The vibrant red color of the cupcakes makes them visually appealing and perfect for celebrations such as birthdays, holidays, or even just as a special treat for yourself.
Health Benefits of Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder, which is used in the red velvet cupcakes recipe, is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health and mood enhancement.
Calcium-Rich Buttermilk: Buttermilk is a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also contains probiotics that are beneficial for gut health.
Moderate Portion Sizes: With a serving size of 12, the red velvet cupcakes recipe promotes portion control, ensuring that you can enjoy a delicious treat without overindulging.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes

Cake flour: Cake flour is used in this recipe to produce a lighter, more delicate crumb in the cupcakes.
Cocoa powder: Cocoa powder adds a rich, chocolate flavor to the cupcakes without making them too dense.
Unsalted butter: Butter adds moisture and richness to the cupcakes, as well as enhancing their flavor.
White sugar: The white sugar sweetens the cupcakes and helps to create a light and fluffy texture.
Buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and moisture to the cupcakes, while also helping to activate the baking soda for leavening.
Liquid red food color: The red food color not only gives the cupcakes their signature vibrant hue, but also adds a hint of flavor to complement the cocoa and vanilla essence.
Cream Cheese: The cream cheese adds a creamy and tangy flavor to the frosting, complementing the sweetness of the cupcakes.

How To Make Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes?

Creating delicious red velvet cupcakes is easier than you might think, especially if you follow these simple steps. The key to a flavorful experience lies in the proper mixing and baking methods, as well as the use of quality ingredients. Let's dive into the steps for making these delectable cupcakes.

First, start by preheating your oven to 180 degrees C and lining 12 muffin tins with cupcake liners. This ensures that the cupcakes cook evenly and don't stick to the pan.
Next, sift together the dry ingredients in a wide bowl, including the flour, salt, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Sifting helps to aerate the ingredients and remove any lumps, resulting in a lighter texture for the cupcakes.
Using an electric stand mixer or a hand mixer, beat the butter until soft and creamy, then add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, creating a light and tender crumb for the cupcakes.
After adding the egg and vanilla essence, it's time to mix the buttermilk and red food color in a measuring cup. Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, ensuring that the ingredients are well combined.
To give the cupcakes their signature red color and tangy flavor, quickly fold in a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to the batter. Then, divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once the cupcakes have cooled, it's time to prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add the vanilla essence and icing sugar, beating until fluffy and silky. Use a star decorating tip to pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes for a professional finish.

By following these steps and paying attention to the key baking and mixing techniques, you'll be rewarded with delicious, moist, and vibrant red velvet cupcakes that are sure to impress.

Serving Suggestions for Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes?

Pair with a hot beverage: Serve these delicious red velvet cupcakes with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful snack or dessert.
Add a scoop of ice cream: Enhance the indulgence by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, creating a perfect combination of warm and cold textures.
Fresh fruit garnish: Garnish the plate with fresh berries or a slice of strawberry for a burst of freshness that complements the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Whipped cream topping: For an extra creamy and rich serving option, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream on top of the cupcakes.
Yogurt or custard: For a lighter option, serve the red velvet cupcakes with a side of vanilla yogurt or a creamy custard.
Serving with a glass of milk: For a classic pairing, serve the red velvet cupcakes with a tall glass of cold milk for a comforting and satisfying treat.

Tips for Making Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes?

Preparation Duration: Make sure to set aside enough time for the preparation of the red velvet cupcakes. The prep time is only 20 minutes, so gather all the ingredients and preheat the oven before you start.
Cooking Techniques: Follow the instructions carefully and pay attention to the mixing and baking techniques. Beating the butter and sugar until light and fluffy is crucial for the texture of the cupcakes, and don't forget to fold in the vinegar and baking soda mixture at the end.
Importance of Garnishing: Garnishing the red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting not only adds delicious flavor but also enhances the presentation. Use a star decorating tip to pipe the frosting for a professional touch.
Even Distribution of Batter: When dividing the batter into the muffin cups, ensure that it is evenly distributed to achieve consistent baking. Smooth out the tops with a spoon for a uniform appearance.
Cooling Time: Allow the cupcakes to cool properly on a wire rack before frosting them. This will prevent the frosting from melting and help the cupcakes set.
Storage Tips: Store the red velvet cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

By following these practical tips, you can create delicious and visually appealing red velvet cupcakes to impress your friends and family.

Variations for Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes?

Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the cupcake batter for a delicious chocolatey surprise in every bite.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top of the cream cheese frosting for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
Citrus Zest: Add a pop of citrus flavor by mixing some lemon or orange zest into the cream cheese frosting for a refreshing twist.
Berry Swirl: Drop a spoonful of raspberry or strawberry jam in the center of the cupcake batter before baking for a fruity burst of flavor.
Espresso Infusion: Mix a shot of espresso into the buttermilk and cocoa mixture for a subtle coffee undertone to complement the chocolate flavor.
Spiced Frosting: Experiment with adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream cheese frosting for a warm and aromatic touch to the cupcakes.

How to Store Red Velvet Cheesecake Cupcakes?

Keep in an airtight container: Once the red velvet cupcakes are completely cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out.
Refrigerate cream cheese frosting: If there are any leftover cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, it's best to store them in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and safe to eat.
Store in a cool, dry place: Store the cupcakes in a cool, dry place to prevent any moisture from causing the cupcakes to become soggy.
Use within 3-4 days: Red velvet cupcakes are best enjoyed within 3-4 days of baking, so try to consume them before they lose their freshness.
Freeze for longer shelf life: If you need to store the cupcakes for a longer period, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
Bring to room temperature before serving: When ready to eat the frozen cupcakes, simply bring them to room temperature before serving to enjoy them at their best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute all-purpose flour for cake flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for cake flour by adding 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to every cup of all-purpose flour. This will help mimic the texture of cake flour.

Can I use regular food coloring instead of liquid red food color?

Yes, you can use regular food coloring, but you may need to adjust the quantity to achieve the desired red color. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cupcakes ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Frost the cupcakes just before serving for the best results.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

If you only have salted butter on hand, you can use it in the recipe but reduce the amount of additional salt that the recipe calls for.

Can I use a different frosting for the cupcakes?

Yes, you can use a different frosting such as buttercream or whipped cream if you prefer. Be sure to adjust the frosting recipe to suit your taste.

Can I make mini cupcakes with this recipe?

Yes, you can make mini cupcakes by adjusting the baking time. Start checking for doneness around 10-12 minutes to avoid over-baking them.