There’s something magical about red velvet cupcakes—their vibrant color, subtle cocoa flavor, and velvety texture make them irresistible. When it comes to iconic red velvet treats, Sprinkles takes the cake, literally. Known for their perfectly moist cupcakes and signature cream cheese frosting, they’ve set the gold standard for this classic dessert.
We’ve recreated the Sprinkles Red Velvet Cupcake recipe so you can enjoy bakery-quality cupcakes right at home. Whether it’s for a special celebration or just because, these cupcakes are sure to impress. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a batch of fluffy, rich cupcakes that taste as good as they look.
Ingredients
To replicate the Sprinkles Red Velvet Cupcake magic, we need a mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Below, we’ve divided the essentials into two sections: For The Cupcakes and For The Cream Cheese Frosting. Gather these to get started on creating these delightfully moist and flavorful treats.
For The Cupcakes
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For The Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Tools And Equipment
Creating Sprinkles’ Red Velvet Cupcakes at home requires the right tools to ensure precision and achieve their iconic, moist texture and smooth frosting. Here’s everything we need to streamline the process:
Essential Tools for Cupcakes
- Mixing Bowls: Use at least two—one for wet ingredients and one for dry. Glass bowls are ideal for monitoring thorough mixing.
- Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or handheld mixer works for combining batter evenly and whipping frosting to perfection.
- Whisk: For blending dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement is critical for consistency in baking.
- Spatula: Use a silicone spatula for scraping batter and folding ingredients smoothly.
- Cookie Scoop: To evenly portion the cupcake batter into liners for uniform cupcakes.
For Baking
- Cupcake Pan: A standard-sized 12-cup muffin tin is recommended for baking cupcakes evenly.
- Cupcake Liners: Paper liners keep the cupcakes intact and make cleanup breezy. Opt for high-quality liners to prevent sticking.
- Oven Thermometer: Ensure precise temperature settings, as accuracy is key for perfectly baked cupcakes.
For Frosting and Decorating
- Piping Bags and Tips: Use a reusable or disposable piping bag with a round or star tip (sizes like 1M or 2D) for that signature Swirls aesthetic.
- Offset Spatula: This small tool is invaluable for spreading frosting smoothly and neatly.
- Sprinkles: Though optional, colorful sprinkles on top add extra pizzazz.
Optional Yet Useful Tools
- Cooling Rack: Promotes even cooling and prevents condensation from forming at the bottom of cupcakes.
- Sifter: For aerating cocoa powder and powdered sugar, resulting in smoother textures for both batter and frosting.
Summary Table for Quick Reference
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combining wet and dry ingredients separately. |
| Electric Mixer | Achieving a lump-free batter and fluffy frosting. |
| Whisk | Evenly blending and aerating dry components. |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Guaranteeing baking accuracy. |
| Silicone Spatula | Efficiently folding and scraping down bowl sides. |
| Cookie Scoop | Ensuring equal batter distribution for uniform cupcake sizes. |
| Cupcake Pan & Liners | Holding batter and aiding in clean baking. |
| Oven Thermometer | Maintaining precise oven temperatures for the best results. |
| Piping Bags & Tips | Crafting elegant swirls with cream cheese frosting. |
| Cooling Rack | Allowing cupcakes to cool evenly and avoid sogginess. |
| Sifter | Guaranteeing smooth textures by eliminating clumps in dry ingredients. |
Equipping ourselves with the right tools ensures a seamless process. Each item in this arsenal makes a difference when recreating Sprinkles’ famous red velvet cupcakes with their classic, bakery-style finish.
Directions
Let’s dive into making these Sprinkles Red Velvet Cupcakes from start to finish. Follow each step carefully to mimic the bakery-perfect taste and texture!
Prep The Ingredients
- Preheat our oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the oven rack in the center for even baking.
- Line a standard cupcake pan with high-quality cupcake liners.
- Let buttermilk, cream cheese, and unsalted butter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften. This ensures smooth batter and frosting.
- Measure out all ingredients carefully using measuring cups and spoons for precision—baking is a science!
Make The Cupcake Batter
- In a medium bowl, sift together 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon fine salt, and 1 teaspoon cocoa powder. Mixing dry ingredients first prevents lumps.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk 1 ½ cups vegetable oil, 1 cup buttermilk, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons red food coloring, 1 teaspoon white vinegar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Blend well until the color is uniform.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing with an electric mixer on low speed. Scrape down the bowl with a spatula to ensure even mixing. Do not overmix; the batter should be smooth but not overly aerated.
Bake The Cupcakes
- Using a cookie scoop, fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full. This avoids overflow while ensuring the perfect rise.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Use a toothpick to test doneness—it should come out clean.
- Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Prepare The Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat 8 ounces cream cheese and 1 stick unsalted butter until creamy with an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Gradually sift in 3 cups powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Once incorporated, increase to medium speed and beat until fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix briefly to combine. The frosting should be smooth and spreadable. Chill if necessary.
Assemble The Cupcakes
- Fill a piping bag fitted with your favorite frosting tip with the cream cheese frosting. Alternatively, use an offset spatula for a more rustic look.
- Pipe or spread the frosting generously over the cooled cupcakes.
- For the classic Sprinkles look, add a pinch of colorful sprinkles to each cupcake.
Make-Ahead Instructions
For those busy days or when planning ahead for special occasions, our Sprinkles Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe is perfect to prepare in advance without losing its iconic taste and texture. Here are some simple and effective strategies to ensure your cupcakes remain moist, flavorful, and perfectly frosted whenever served:
Preparing the Cupcakes Ahead
- Bake in Advance: Follow the recipe to bake the cupcakes as directed. Once baked, allow them to cool completely on a wire rack to avoid residual heat causing excess moisture.
- Storage: Place the cooled cupcakes in an airtight container, and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the cupcakes (without frosting) by individually wrapping each one in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Thawing: To bring the cupcakes to their original texture, thaw them at room temperature for 1-2 hours before frosting and serving.
Frosting in Advance
The cream cheese frosting can also be prepared ahead of time for convenience. Here’s how:
- Prepare the frosting as per the recipe.
- Transfer the frosting to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- When ready to use, let the frosting sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften. Rewhip using an electric mixer to restore its creamy texture.
Assembling the Cupcakes
If assembling in advance:
- Frost the cupcakes with the softened and rewhipped cream cheese frosting.
- Store the frosted cupcakes in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Note: For the freshest presentation, we recommend adding the sprinkles right before serving to maintain their vibrant color and texture.
Quick Reference Table for Storage
| Step | Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Baked Cupcakes (Unfrosted) | Airtight container (room temperature) | Up to 2 days |
| Baked Cupcakes (Frozen) | Freezer (wrapped individually) | Up to 2 months |
| Frosting (Prepared) | Airtight container (refrigerated) | Up to 5 days |
| Frosted Cupcakes | Covered container (refrigerated) | Up to 3 days |
Tips For Success
Creating Sprinkles Red Velvet Cupcakes at home is an exciting process, but a few expert strategies can ensure that your cupcakes turn out just as moist and flavorful as the bakery version. Follow these essential tips for perfect results every time:
1. Measure Ingredients Precisely
Baking is a science, and precise measurements are non-negotiable. Always use measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients to ensure accurate proportions. When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it with a knife to avoid compacting it.
2. Choose Quality Ingredients
We always recommend using high-quality cocoa powder, pure vanilla extract, and fresh eggs. These small details significantly enhance the rich flavors of your cupcakes and frosting. For the red food coloring, gel-based colors work best for creating the bold, vibrant color typical of red velvet.
3. Bring Ingredients to Room Temperature
Ensure that eggs, buttermilk, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature before starting. This helps the batter mix evenly and creates a smoother cream cheese frosting without any lumps.
4. Do Not Overmix the Batter
Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing activates gluten in the flour, which could result in dense cupcakes instead of their iconic fluffy texture.
5. Line and Fill Cupcake Pan Evenly
Use high-quality cupcake liners to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. For even cupcakes, fill each liner about two-thirds full using a cookie scoop. Consistent filling results in uniform baking.
6. Monitor Oven Temperature
An oven thermometer is the secret weapon for precision baking. Oven temperatures can vary, so double-check that your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) for optimal results. Don’t rely on the oven’s built-in setting alone.
7. Test for Doneness
Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cupcakes are baked through. Avoid overbaking to maintain the signature moist and tender texture.
8. Cool Completely Before Frosting
Allow the cupcakes to fully cool on a wire rack before adding the cream cheese frosting. Even the slightest warmth can melt the frosting, ruining the cupcake’s presentation.
9. Practice Piping Skills
For that signature bakery-style swirl, use a large star or round piping tip. Practice on parchment paper before piping directly onto your cupcakes for a smooth finish. Add decorations or colorful sprinkles immediately after frosting so they stick properly.
10. Plan for Make-Ahead Prep
Both cupcakes and frosting can be prepared in advance. Refer to our detailed storage tips for keeping your cupcakes moist and delicious. If needed, assemble the cupcakes a few hours before serving to maintain their bakery-fresh appearance.
| Baking Success Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Use an oven thermometer | Ensures even baking and prevents over- or under-baking. |
| Bring ingredients to room temp | Creates smoother batter and silky, lump-free frosting. |
| Do not overmix batter | Prevents dense, chewy cupcakes by limiting gluten formation. |
| Cool completely before frosting | Avoids melting frosting and ensures a professional look. |
Bonus Tip: Make It Your Own
While these tips honor the classic Sprinkles Red Velvet Cupcake, feel free to sprinkle on a personal touch—add edible glitter, themed sprinkles, or a touch of shaved white chocolate for a unique flair.
Conclusion
Recreating Sprinkles’ iconic red velvet cupcakes at home is a rewarding experience that brings the charm of bakery-style treats to your kitchen. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can achieve that perfect balance of moist cake and creamy frosting every time.
Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Let’s embrace the joy of baking and share these delightful creations with those we love. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes red velvet cupcakes unique?
Red velvet cupcakes stand out for their vibrant red color, subtle cocoa flavor, and velvety texture. Paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting, they offer a perfectly balanced dessert experience.
What are the key ingredients in Sprinkles’ red velvet cupcakes?
The key ingredients for the cupcakes include all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. The frosting requires cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
What tools do I need to bake red velvet cupcakes at home?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups, a whisk, a spatula, a cupcake pan with liners, and piping bags for frosting. An oven thermometer is also highly recommended for accuracy.
Can the cupcakes and frosting be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cupcakes and cream cheese frosting in advance. Store the cupcakes at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer. Frosting can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
How do I achieve the perfect velvety texture in the cupcakes?
To achieve the perfect texture, measure ingredients precisely, avoid overmixing the batter, and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before baking.
What tips can help me frost cupcakes like a pro?
Use a piping bag with a frosting tip and practice steady pressure for smooth designs. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting and use quality sprinkles for added decoration.
How can I store leftover cupcakes?
Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let them sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Can I personalize red velvet cupcakes?
Yes! You can add personalized touches like themed sprinkles, edible toppers, or customized piping designs to match any occasion or celebration.
Is it essential to use red food coloring?
While not mandatory, red food coloring gives red velvet cupcakes their iconic red hue. If you prefer, you can skip it or use a natural alternative like beet juice.
What is the best way to ensure even cupcake sizes?
Using a cookie scoop to portion the batter ensures uniform cupcake sizes, making them bake evenly and look professional.