Description
These Red Velvet Cupcakes with Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting are moist, tender, and visually striking treats featuring a subtle cocoa flavor and a luscious, fluffy frosting that perfectly balances sweetness and tang. Ideal for any celebration or sweet craving, this recipe combines classic Southern flavors with a unique marshmallow twist for an unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Cupcake Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 7 oz marshmallow fluff
Instructions
- Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners for easy removal and cleanup.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even blending and a smooth cupcake texture.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Then add buttermilk and red food coloring, mixing gently to create a soft reddish liquid base.
- Bring It All Together: Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain cupcake tenderness. Stir in the vinegar lightly to help the cupcakes rise beautifully.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add marshmallow fluff, mixing until the frosting is light, fluffy, and spreadable. Chill for 10 minutes if needed for easier application.
- Frost and Decorate: Using a spatula or piping bag, generously spread the marshmallow cream cheese frosting over cooled cupcakes. Optional toppings include sprinkles, mini marshmallows, or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra flair.
Notes
- Bring eggs, butter, and cream cheese to room temperature for smoother batter and frosting.
- Fold ingredients gently to avoid overmixing and keep cupcakes fluffy.
- Use quality cocoa powder for deeper chocolate flavor.
- Measure flour carefully by spooning and leveling to avoid dense cupcakes.
- Chill frosting briefly if it’s too soft for clean piping.
- Allow cupcakes to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: red velvet cupcakes, marshmallow cream cheese frosting, moist cupcakes, Southern dessert, birthday cupcakes, holiday dessert