Red Velvet Cupcakes with Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting

Delight in rich Red Velvet Cupcakes with Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting—a perfectly sweet, fluffy, and utterly irresistible treat that combines the classic tender crumb of red velvet with a luscious, creamy marshmallow frosting twist. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds, making each bite a festive celebration of flavor and texture that will charm friends and family alike. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a scrumptious dessert, these cupcakes are a guaranteed showstopper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor Fusion: Combines the iconic red velvet cocoa notes with sweet, airy marshmallow cream cheese frosting for an unforgettable taste.
• Perfectly Moist and Fluffy: The cupcakes strike the ideal balance between soft crumb and tenderness, making every bite melt in your mouth.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from pantry staples and easy-to-find ingredients without sacrificing rich flavor or texture.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: Vibrant red cupcakes topped with creamy white frosting create a visually stunning dessert display.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Great for birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings, these cupcakes impress every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Red Velvet Cupcakes with Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting recipe plays a crucial role in delivering that classic flavor and beautiful texture. From the tangy buttermilk to the rich cocoa powder and velvety cream cheese, these components come together seamlessly to create cupcake perfection.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure while keeping the cupcakes tender and light.
• Cocoa Powder: Adds subtle chocolate flavor to deepen the red velvet profile.
• Baking Soda: The leavening agent that helps the cupcakes rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
• Buttermilk: Brings moistness and a subtle tang that complements the sweetness.
• Butter and Oil: A mix of both keeps the crumb rich and moist without being greasy.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes just right, balancing all flavors harmoniously.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure for that perfect cupcake rise.
• Red Food Coloring: Creates the signature vibrant hue of classic red velvet.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with warm, inviting notes.
• Cream Cheese: For the frosting’s creamy richness and tangy depth.
• Marshmallow Fluff or Marshmallow Creme: Adds fluffy sweetness and a unique twist to traditional cream cheese frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.

Variations for Red Velvet Cupcakes with Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Whether adjusting for dietary preferences or experimenting with flavors, these cupcakes are wonderfully adaptable without losing their special charm.

• Vegan Version: Substitute dairy with plant-based milk and vegan cream cheese, and use flax eggs for binding.
• Gluten-Free Twist: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a safe and tasty alternative.
• Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for extra bursts of cocoa goodness.
• Spiced Red Velvet: Mix in cinnamon or nutmeg to give a cozy, warm flavor profile ideal for autumn.
• Berry Infusion: Top the cupcakes with fresh raspberries or strawberries to complement the marshmallow creaminess.

How to Make Red Velvet Cupcakes with Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a cupcake pan with paper liners. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda to ensure even mixing and a light crumb. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy, then beat in the eggs one at a time for full incorporation.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

Mix together buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring in a small bowl. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and wet mixture into the creamed butter and sugar, starting and ending with dry ingredients, gently folding in between to avoid overmixing. This method keeps the batter smooth and ensures a tender cupcake texture.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly into the lined cupcake tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting to prevent melting.

Step 4: Prepare the Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting

In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese and marshmallow fluff until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, continuing to beat until light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with a little milk if necessary, aiming for a frosting that’s easy to spread or pipe but holds its shape beautifully.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

Using a piping bag or a spatula, generously frost each cooled cupcake with the marshmallow cream cheese frosting. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with red velvet crumbs, edible glitter, or a few mini marshmallows for extra whimsy.

Pro Tips for Making Red Velvet Cupcakes with Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing and even texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients combine to keep cupcakes tender and light.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly to avoid dense cupcakes.
• Use Buttermilk: This acidic ingredient tenderizes the crumb and enhances overall flavor.
• Chill the Frosting: Refrigerate the marshmallow cream cheese frosting for 15-20 minutes before frosting to achieve perfect piping consistency.
• Bake Evenly: Rotate the cupcake pans halfway through baking for uniform color and rise.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cupcakes with Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Try decorating your cupcakes with a dusting of cocoa powder, a few red sprinkles, or crushed peppermint candies to add color and texture that complement the marshmallow cream cheese frosting beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a hot cup of coffee, rich hot chocolate, or a glass of cold milk for the perfect sweet treat experience that balances richness with refreshing simplicity.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cupcakes on tiered stands for festive occasions or place them in decorative boxes as charming homemade gifts. You can also serve them with mini forks beside elegant plates for afternoon tea or bridal showers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh and prevent the cupcakes from drying out, ideally consuming within 3-4 days.

Freezing

Freeze unfrosted cupcakes wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Defrost completely before frosting and serving to maintain freshness and texture.

Reheating

To enjoy leftover cupcakes warm, remove frosting and microwave the cupcake alone for about 10 seconds or until warm. Then reapply the frosting or serve with it chilled for a delightful contrast.

FAQs

Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar for the frosting?

Powdered sugar is key to a smooth, creamy frosting texture, so it’s best to stick with it for the marshmallow cream cheese frosting. Regular sugar won’t dissolve well and may make the frosting grainy.

What’s the best way to make these cupcakes more moist?

Using buttermilk and a combination of butter and oil helps keep these cupcakes moist. Also, avoid overbaking to prevent drying out the cupcakes.

Can I substitute marshmallow fluff with homemade marshmallow cream?

Yes, homemade marshmallow cream can work perfectly, just ensure it has a similar consistency and sweetness level to commercial marshmallow fluff for the best frosting texture.

Are these cupcakes suitable for freezing after they’re frosted?

It’s best to freeze cupcakes before frosting to maintain the best texture. Freezing frosted cupcakes can change the frosting consistency, making it less appealing when thawed.

How do I prevent the frosting from melting or becoming too soft?

Keep the frosting chilled before applying and store the cupcakes in a cool environment. Using full-fat cream cheese and chilling frosting before use helps it hold shape longer.

Final Thoughts

Red Velvet Cupcakes with Marshmallow Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful blend of rich, tangy, and sweet flavors wrapped in a tender, vibrant crumb. This recipe is easy to follow, wonderfully adaptable, and perfect for brightening up any celebration or everyday moment. Once you try these cupcakes, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire—so go ahead, bake a batch, and watch them disappear in no time!

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