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Bloody Red Velvet Cupcakes

bloody red velvet cupcakes - featured image

These bloody red velvet cupcakes are bold, dramatic, and delicious, featuring a rich cocoa flavor, tangy cream cheese frosting, and a spooky ‘bloody’ drizzle. Perfect for Halloween, themed parties, or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk, room temperature
  • ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 12 tablespoons red food coloring (gel works best for vibrant color)
  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120ml) cherry or raspberry syrup
  • Optional: 1-2 drops of red food coloring for extra intensity

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth. Stir in the red food coloring.
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full.
  6. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
  7. To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in the vanilla extract. Chill for 10 minutes for easier piping.
  8. Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Drizzle the cherry or raspberry syrup over the frosting for the ‘bloody’ effect.

Notes

Use gel food coloring for vibrant color. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smooth mixing. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cupcakes tender.

Nutrition

Keywords: red velvet cupcakes, Halloween dessert, bloody cupcakes, cream cheese frosting, spooky dessert