Blue Velvet Cupcakes provide a visually striking and delicious twist on the traditional Red Velvet cake. These cupcakes feature a vivid blue color that makes them a perfect choice for special events or as a unique treat for any occasion. Their soft texture and rich flavor, paired with creamy frosting, make them an irresistible addition to any dessert table.
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 2 cups sugar
- ½ pound (2 sticks) butter, room temperature
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp Wilton royal blue gel food coloring
- A dab of Wilton violet gel food coloring
- 2½ cups cake flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp vinegar
For the Frosting:
- 1 pound cream cheese, softened
- ½ pound (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar
Directions
- Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line cupcake pans with paper liners to ensure easy removal and clean presentation.
- Make the Cupcake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next.
- Mix the cocoa powder with both the blue and violet gel food colorings to create a deep blue paste. Blend this paste into the creamed butter mixture.
- Alternately add the cake flour and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a small dish, combine the baking soda and vinegar, which will fizz. Quickly fold this reaction into the batter to help the cupcakes rise.
- Bake:
- Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full with the batter. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely in the pan before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and light.
- Frost and Decorate:
- Once the cupcakes are completely cool, apply the frosting generously. Decorate according to the occasion or preference.
Tips
- Color Adjustment: Achieve the perfect blue shade by adjusting the amount of violet gel coloring. Start with a small amount and increase as needed.
- Cooling: Ensure the cupcakes are completely cool before frosting to keep the frosting firm and in place.
Conclusion
Blue Velvet Cupcakes are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a delight for the eyes, making them a fantastic treat for celebrations or as a standout addition to any gathering. Their unique color and classic charm are sure to make your next event a memorable one. Enjoy baking these delightful cupcakes and watch them become the highlight of your dessert table!