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Heavenly Red Velvet Cupcakes with Silky Cream Cheese Frosting

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Hello busy food lovers! If you’re like me, the idea of baking might sometimes feel luxurious and out of reach when you’re running around with a packed schedule. But what if I told you that these delectable red velvet cupcakes are not only easy to make but also budget-friendly? Cook up some love in your kitchen with this recipe that won’t break the bank.

Why You’ll Love It

Ready in 20 minutes!
Family-friendly and picky-eater approved
No fancy equipment required
Easy to double for meal prep
Leftovers reheat like a dream

📌 Pin this recipe for later — you’ll want to come back to it!

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
For the cream cheese frosting:
1/4 cup butter, softened
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix well.
Stir in the red food coloring and vanilla extract.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
Mix the vinegar into the batter until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
For the frosting: Beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth and fluffy.
Frost each cupcake generously and enjoy!

Real Talk: Juggling Cupcakes and Income

Life can be a balancing act between feeding your soul and filling your wallet. Here are some tips to make both work for you:

Time Savers: Use the waiting time while baking to answer surveys or chat jobs.
Family Fun: Turn baking into a family activity and involve everyone.
Batch Cooking: Double the cupcake recipe for events and entertaining. More time to focus on gig tasks!
Monetize Your Hobby: Ever thought of starting a blog about your baking adventures? Your favorite recipe could be your next side gig!

💡 Loved this recipe? Pin it and share with a friend who needs a cheap dinner win!