Imagine biting into a decadent, velvety cupcake that's as red as passionate love and as smooth as a romantic whisper. These Red Velvet Valentine's Day Treats aren't just desserts; they're edible expressions of affection that will make your sweetheart's heart melt faster than the cream cheese frosting! Whether you're planning a romantic surprise or wanting to impress your loved ones, these cupcakes are the perfect blend of sweet romance and culinary magic.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- Cream cheese frosting for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with festive Valentine's Day-themed cupcake liners or red paper liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, and cocoa powder to ensure no lumps remain and ingredients are well combined.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cupcakes.
- Use an ice cream scoop or 1/4 cup measuring cup to evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about 2/3 full.
- Tap the muffin tin gently on the counter to release any air bubbles and ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once completely cooled, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Using a piping bag with a star tip, pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cupcake in a decorative swirl. Alternatively, use an offset spatula to spread the frosting.
- Optional: Decorate with heart-shaped sprinkles, edible glitter, or small fondant hearts to enhance the Valentine's Day theme.
- Refrigerate the cupcakes for 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set and develop a firmer texture.
- Serve at room temperature and enjoy these delightful Red Velvet Valentine's Day Treats with your loved ones!
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients like eggs, buttermilk, and butter are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: Gently fold wet and dry ingredients together. Overmixing can lead to tough, dense cupcakes.
- Food Coloring Trick: Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red color without affecting the batter's consistency.
- Frosting Perfection: Chill cream cheese before making frosting for a firmer, more stable texture.
- Decorating Hacks: Use a piping bag with a star tip for professional-looking swirls, and add heart-shaped sprinkles for that extra Valentine's charm.
- Storage Tip: These cupcakes stay fresh in an airtight container for up to 3 days when refrigerated.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
