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Easy Cupcake Recipes Red Velvet Cupcakes

There’s something magical about red velvet cupcakes. Maybe it’s the deep red color, maybe it’s the way the cocoa whispers in the background, or maybe it’s just the cream cheese frosting that steals the show. Whatever the reason, I’ve always believed red velvet has a charm that’s both nostalgic and irresistible. Growing up, I thought they were fancy bakery-only treats, but once I baked them at home, I realized they’re actually simple, fun, and honestly a little therapeutic to make. These cupcakes belong on any table—birthdays, date nights, or even a random Tuesday when you just need something sweet. They’ve got a light crumb, a touch of cocoa, and that dreamy frosting swirl on top. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should make your own batch instead of buying them, the answer is yes—every single time. It’s one of those easy cupcake recipes that makes you feel like a pro, even when your piping skills are… let’s just say, a work in progress. And here’s the best part—you don’t need to stop at cupcakes. This batter can inspire so much more, from a recipe for red velvet cake to red velvet cake mix recipes, even adventurous ideas like a red velvet waffles recipe, a red velvet sheet cake recipe, or red velvet cinnamon rolls recipe. The possibilities are endless, but today, let’s keep it classic with Easy Cupcakes that never disappoint.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keywords: Easy Cupcake Recipes, Easy Cupcakes, recipe for red velvet cake, red velvet cake mix recipes, red velvet cinnamon rolls recipe, red velvet sheet cake recipe, red velvet waffles recipe
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Author: Lila

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 2 teaspoons red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • Cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
  4. Mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, until smooth.
  5. Stir in the red food coloring and vinegar until the batter is evenly red.
  6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
  7. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Cool completely, then top with cream cheese frosting and swirl generously.