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Red Velvet Crush Cupcakes: A Decadent Swirl of Sweet & Tangy Delight

Strawberry Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

Decadent red velvet cupcakes with a rich cocoa base and a tangy cream cheese swirl baked right in – soft, moist, and irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature
  • 1/2 tbsp white vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 oz red food coloring (1 tbsp)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) 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, combine buttermilk, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
  5. Add egg and mix until fully combined.
  6. Add dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
  7. In a small bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
  8. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter. Spoon 1 tsp of cream cheese mixture on top and swirl with a toothpick.
  9. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. Cool cupcakes in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best mixing results.
  • Use gel food coloring for vibrant red without thinning the batter.
  • Do not overmix the batter once combined to maintain tenderness.
  • Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet cupcakes, cream cheese swirl, easy red velvet, baking recipe, cupcake swirl