Stunning red velvet cupcakes with tangy cream cheese frosting are a showstopping family celebration treat. These vivid, velvety cupcakes combine subtle chocolate flavor with iconic Southern charm.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to combine evenly; set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with a mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then blend in vanilla extract and red food coloring until smooth and vivid.
Mix white vinegar into the buttermilk. On low mixer speed, alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk mixture to the butter base, starting and ending with flour; mix just until no dry streaks remain.
Divide the batter evenly among liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake on the center rack for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool cupcakes completely before frosting.
To prepare the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together on medium-high speed until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy and spreadable.
Frost cooled cupcakes with the cream cheese frosting, swirling tops for an elegant finish. Optionally, sprinkle with cake crumbs for decoration.