Red Velvet Cupcakes with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re looking for the perfect treat to celebrate the festive season or simply indulge in a delightful dessert, look no further than these Red Velvet Cupcakes with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting. These beautiful, rich red cupcakes are not just a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor that combines the unique taste of red velvet with a creamy peppermint twist. The combination of soft, moist cupcakes topped with a luscious peppermint cream cheese frosting makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Why This Red Velvet Cupcakes with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting Stands Out

There’s something undeniably enchanting about red velvet. The vibrant color and the slight cocoa flavor create a luxurious base that’s both classic and contemporary. However, what truly elevates these Red Velvet Cupcakes is the creamy peppermint frosting. The hint of peppermint provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just want to treat yourself, these cupcakes are guaranteed to impress.

What’s in the Bowl

To whip up these enchanting Red Velvet Cupcakes with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 (1-ounce) bottle red food coloring
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 2 teaspoons white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed hard peppermint candies for decorating

Must-Have Equipment

Before you dive into baking, gather these essential tools:

• Muffin tin – for baking the cupcakes.
• Cupcake liners – to make cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer – for fluffy frosting and batter.
• Spatula – for folding and scraping the bowl.
• Cooling rack – to cool the cupcakes after baking.

Red Velvet Cupcakes with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting Made Stepwise

Creating these Red Velvet Cupcakes with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting is simple and enjoyable. Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, vegetable oil, and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the red food coloring and vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and vinegar. Gradually add this mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the all-purpose flour, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each liner about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

While the cupcakes cool, prepare the peppermint cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and peppermint extract, mixing until well combined and fluffy.

Step 6: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag or a spatula to frost each cupcake generously with the peppermint cream cheese frosting.

Step 7: Decorate

Sprinkle crushed hard peppermint candies on top of the frosting for a festive touch and an extra crunch.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you find yourself missing an ingredient or two, here are some easy swaps:

• Use Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk.
• Replace vegetable oil with coconut oil for a subtle coconut flavor.
• Use almond milk mixed with a bit of vinegar as a buttermilk substitute.
• Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty twist.

Method to the Madness

Creating these Red Velvet Cupcakes with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful process that involves both baking and creativity. Here’s a quick rundown of the method:

Start by preheating your oven and preparing your muffin tin. Cream together the butter, oil, and sugar until fluffy, then add in the eggs and coloring. Alternately mix the dry ingredients and buttermilk into the butter mixture, ensuring a smooth batter. Bake until perfectly risen, then cool before frosting with that decadent peppermint cream cheese frosting. Finish off with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies for a delightful crunch!

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your delicious Red Velvet Cupcakes with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting fresh, follow these tips:

• Room Temperature: Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure they’re covered to prevent drying out.
• Freezer: You can freeze undecorated cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.

FAQ

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Frost them right before serving for the best taste!

Can I use a different frosting instead of peppermint cream cheese frosting?

Yes! Feel free to use classic cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a simple vanilla buttercream. The red velvet base pairs well with various frostings!

How can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Red Velvet Cupcakes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The results will be just as delightful!

What can I do if I don’t have red food coloring?

You can use beet juice or pomegranate juice as a natural alternative to achieve a red hue, though the flavor might slightly differ.

Weekend Projects

If you’re inspired by these Red Velvet Cupcakes with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting, here are some more delightful recipes to try:

• Caramel Brownies – Rich and gooey with a decadent caramel layer.
• Lemon Bars – A tangy, sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Banana Bread – Moist and flavorful, a great way to use up ripe bananas.
• Chocolate Chip Cookies – The classic cookie that never fails to please.

The Takeaway

These Red Velvet Cupcakes with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. From the moment you mix the batter to the first bite of the moist, flavorful cupcake topped with creamy frosting, you’ll understand why they’re a favorite for so many. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are sure to bring joy and deliciousness to your table. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in a baking adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight!