Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups (192g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon red food coloring (gel is preferred)
  • 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 3-4 cups (360-480g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Sprinkles, edible glitter, heart-shaped candies (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the egg, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate small bowl, whisk together buttermilk, vinegar, and red food coloring.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full using an ice cream scoop or large spoon.
  8. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  11. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  12. Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the cream cheese frosting using a piping bag and tip or a knife. Decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, or heart-shaped candies, as desired.