ADVERTISEMENT
- Prepare the Cupcake Batter:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a small bowl, combine the buttermilk, red food coloring, and vinegar. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the buttermilk mixture to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Bake the Cupcakes:
- Divide the batter evenly among the 12 cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
How to Make the Buttercream Frosting:
- Make the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Add the heavy cream, a tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If you want the frosting to be stiffer for piping, add more powdered sugar; for a smoother, fluffier texture, add more cream.
- Pipe the Frosting:
- Once the cupcakes are fully cooled, use a piping bag fitted with a star tip (like a 1M or 2D) to pipe a swirl of white buttercream on top of each cupcake. You can also use a spatula to spread the frosting if you prefer a more rustic look.
How to Decorate:
- Holiday Sprinkles:
- Decorate the cupcakes with red and green sprinkles or sugar crystals for a festive touch. You can also use silver or gold edible glitter for some added sparkle.
- Add Extra Decorations:
- Place mini candy canes on the cupcakes or add small holiday-themed toppers like edible snowflakes, mini gingerbread men, or sugar pearls.
- Snowy Effect:
- For a winter wonderland look, lightly dust the tops of the cupcakes with powdered sugar to mimic snow, or sprinkle with edible glitter for a frosty effect.
Pro Tips:
- Even Baking: Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking to ensure the cupcakes bake evenly.
- Frosting Variation: If you prefer a smoother frosting, use a buttercream smoother tool to perfect the tops.
- Personalize the Decorations: Add little holiday touches like mini marshmallows or red candy gems to give each cupcake a unique flair!
These Festive Red Velvet Cupcakes with White Buttercream Frosting are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings. Soft, flavorful, and beautifully decorated, they’ll add the perfect touch of sweetness to your celebration! Do you have any fun ideas for extra decorations or personal touches you’d like to add? 🎅🧁