Best Vegan Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe for Perfect Treats

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Discover the magic of vegan red velvet cupcakes—a delightful treat that combines the rich, velvety texture of classic red velvet with a compassionate plant-based twist. These cupcakes are perfect for anyone craving a beautifully moist, tender cake that’s entirely free of dairy and eggs, yet bursting with flavor.

Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or simply looking to try something new, this recipe promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.

Made with wholesome ingredients like almond milk and apple cider vinegar to create that signature tender crumb, plus natural cocoa powder and beetroot powder for color and depth, these cupcakes are as visually stunning as they are delicious.

Topped with a luscious vegan cream cheese frosting, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any celebration or just a comforting indulgence for yourself.

Ready to bake some unforgettable cupcakes? Let’s dive into the best vegan red velvet cupcake recipe that will soon become your go-to dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan red velvet cupcake recipe stands out because it doesn’t compromise on taste or texture despite being plant-based. The cupcakes are incredibly moist thanks to the combination of oil and non-dairy milk, while the apple cider vinegar reacts with baking soda to give them a light, fluffy rise.

Using natural beetroot powder enhances the color without artificial dyes, making these cupcakes healthier and visually appealing.

The frosting is made with vegan cream cheese and powdered sugar, offering the perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness. Plus, this recipe is straightforward and uses common pantry staples, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a casual treat, these cupcakes will impress everyone, vegan or not!

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup organic cane sugar
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp beetroot powder (for natural red color)
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil (canola or light olive oil)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk and spatula
  • Muffin tin
  • Paper cupcake liners
  • Electric mixer or hand mixer (optional but helpful for frosting)
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, sugar, cocoa powder, beetroot powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: almond milk, apple cider vinegar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Let it sit for 2 minutes to curdle (this mimics buttermilk).
  4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cupcakes tender.
  5. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
  6. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Remove from oven and let cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  8. While cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating together 1/2 cup vegan cream cheese, 1/4 cup vegan butter, 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  9. Once cupcakes are completely cool, frost generously using a spatula or piping bag.
  10. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

For the best red color, be sure to use natural beetroot powder rather than liquid beet juice, which can alter moisture levels.

  • Make them gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum.
  • Add texture: Mix in 1/4 cup vegan chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for some crunch.
  • Frosting alternatives: Try coconut whipped cream or a simple powdered sugar glaze if you prefer a lighter topping.
  • Storage: These cupcakes freeze well. Wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Cupcake
Calories 220 kcal
Fat 10 g
Saturated Fat 1 g
Carbohydrates 30 g
Fiber 1.5 g
Sugar 19 g
Protein 2 g
Sodium 180 mg

Serving Suggestions

These vegan red velvet cupcakes are perfect on their own or paired with a hot cup of your favorite coffee or tea. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh berries or a sprinkle of edible rose petals.

They’re also a wonderful dessert option for parties, potlucks, or holiday celebrations.

Looking to complement your vegan dessert menu? Try pairing these cupcakes with the decadent Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe for an indulgent vegan-friendly treat.

Or, if you prefer cakes, don’t miss the rich Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for another delicious dessert option.

Conclusion

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this best vegan red velvet cupcake recipe offers a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal that everyone will love. The use of natural ingredients and simple techniques ensures a moist, tender crumb with that iconic red hue, all without any animal products.

These cupcakes are ideal for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to introduce friends and family to the joys of vegan baking.

Don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes like the rich and creamy Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe to expand your culinary repertoire!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Red Velvet Cupcake

Description: Deliciously moist and fluffy vegan red velvet cupcakes with a rich cocoa flavor and tangy frosting. Perfect for any occasion and entirely plant-based.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT18M
Total Time: PT38M

Servings: 12 cupcakes

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring (vegan)
  • 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
  2. Mix almond milk and apple cider vinegar; let sit for 5 minutes to curdle.
  3. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Add oil, vanilla, red food coloring, and vinegar to the almond milk mixture.
  5. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth but do not overmix.
  6. Divide batter evenly into cupcake liners.
  7. Bake for 16-18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Cool completely before frosting.

Nutrition: Calories: 190 | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 28g

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Marta K

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