Pink Velvet Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic red velvet cupcakes, featuring a beautiful pink hue and a light, moist texture. Topped with a creamy frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for celebrations, parties, or any special occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring (adjust for desired color)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk, for consistency)

Timing

Making Pink Velvet Cupcakes takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for baking, plus cooling time.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well combined.
5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk and food coloring together.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk mixture. Mix just until combined; do not overmix.
7. Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool: Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Frosting

1. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
3. Add Vanilla and Cream: Stir in the vanilla extract and enough heavy cream (or milk) to achieve your desired frosting consistency.

Step 4: Frost the Cupcakes

1. Frost: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting using a piping bag or a spatula.
2. Decorate: Optionally, garnish with sprinkles or fresh berries for an extra touch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Pink Velvet Cupcakes (per cupcake, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Cupcake
Calories	250
Protein	2g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	20g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a different flavor profile.
• Color Adjustments: Adjust the amount of food coloring to achieve your desired shade of pink.
• Add-ins: Consider folding in mini chocolate chips or sprinkles into the batter for added fun.

Conclusion

Pink Velvet Cupcakes are a charming and delicious treat that is sure to impress at any gathering. With their vibrant color and rich flavor, these cupcakes are perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or any festive occasion. Enjoy this delightful recipe!