We’ve always been captivated by the iconic Sprinkles Red Velvet Recipe, a beloved treat that originated in the heart of American baking traditions. This moist, velvety cupcake with its signature red hue and tangy cream cheese frosting brings a touch of indulgence to any occasion, making it a favorite at Sprinkles bakeries worldwide.
What sets our take on this classic apart is its perfect balance of flavors, drawing from the original’s rich history while adding our expert twists. We’re thrilled to guide you through recreating this crowd-pleaser at home, so let’s dive into the magic of red velvet baking.
Ingredients
In our Sprinkles Red Velvet Recipe, we gather simple yet premium ingredients that deliver the signature moist texture, vibrant red hue, and tangy cream cheese frosting that make this treat irresistible. Below, we list the ingredients in the order they’re used, with prep notes for precision to help you recreate this bakery favorite at home.
For the Red Velvet Cupcakes
We start with the base components for the batter, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and that iconic red color.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Sifted to avoid lumps, as it’s the first dry ingredient we mix.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Measured precisely for sweetness that complements the cocoa without overwhelming.
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Unsweetened for a subtle chocolate note; whisk it in next to blend evenly.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Added after the wet ingredients to activate the reaction with vinegar.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Incorporated with the dry mix to enhance flavors.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Softened at room temperature before creaming with sugar.
- 2 large eggs: At room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Chilled, as it’s used to add tanginess and moisture to the mix.
- 2 teaspoons red food coloring: Gel-based for a vivid red without altering consistency; stir in gradually.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure variety for authentic flavor depth.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar: Added last in the wet mix to react with baking soda for lift.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
These ingredients follow for the frosting, applied after the cupcakes cool, to crown them with that creamy, tangy finish.
- 8 ounces cream cheese: Softened to room temperature for smooth whipping.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: Also softened, as it’s the base for creaming.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sifted to prevent clumps, added in increments for the right consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure extract to tie the flavors together.
- A pinch of salt: Just enough to balance the sweetness without overpowering.
By preparing these ingredients as noted, we ensure your Sprinkles Red Velvet Recipe turns out fluffy, flavorful, and frosting-perfected every time.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Sprinkles Red Velvet cupcakes and cream cheese frosting with precision, we rely on essential baking tools that ensure consistent, professional results. Building on our ingredient list, let’s outline the key equipment you’ll need, organized by their role in the process.
Baking Essentials
- Mixing bowls (medium and large): We use these sturdy bowls to combine dry ingredients like flour and cocoa powder with wet ones such as buttermilk and eggs, preventing spills and allowing for easy blending.
- Measuring cups and spoons (set of 1-cup, ½-cup, and various spoons): Accurate measurements are crucial for our recipe’s balance, so we recommend stainless steel sets to measure flour, sugar, and liquids precisely.
- Electric mixer or stand mixer: This tool helps us achieve the smooth batter and fluffy frosting by whipping ingredients quickly—opt for a stand mixer if you’re making larger batches for efficiency.
Preparation and Baking Tools
- Muffin tin (12-cup capacity): We depend on this for shaping our cupcakes perfectly, ensuring even baking and that signature moist texture in every bite.
- Cupcake liners (standard size): These non-stick liners make it simple for us to remove cupcakes without damage, while adding a professional touch to our vibrant red treats.
- Spatula (silicone or rubber): Ideal for scraping down bowls and folding ingredients, we use it to maintain the batter’s airy consistency without overmixing.
Finishing Tools
- Cooling rack: After baking, we place our cupcakes here to cool evenly, locking in that tangy cream cheese frosting without sogginess.
- Piping bag and tips (optional but recommended): For a bakery-like finish on our Sprinkles Red Velvet cupcakes, we suggest using this to apply frosting smoothly and decoratively.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to move seamlessly into the preparation steps, ensuring your homemade version rivals the original.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our premium ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through creating Sprinkles Red Velvet Cupcakes with precise steps to ensure a moist texture and vibrant red hue in every bite.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin, let’s organize and prep our ingredients for seamless baking. Start by measuring out 2 cups of all-purpose flour and sift it to remove lumps, ensuring a light and airy base. Next, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder in a separate bowl for even distribution of flavors.
In another bowl, combine 1 cup of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of red food coloring to achieve that signature vivid red color. Pro tip: Use high-quality food coloring for the brightest results. For the cream cheese frosting, soften 8 ounces of cream cheese and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature, then measure 4 cups of powdered sugar to create a tangy, creamy topping that perfectly balances the cupcake’s richness.
Mix the Batter
We start by blending the dry ingredients to build a solid foundation for our batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and cocoa powder, then add 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1/2 teaspoon of salt for optimal rise and flavor balance.
Next, in a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs with the buttermilk mixture using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and well incorporated—this creates a tangy base that enhances the red velvet’s signature taste. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed to avoid overworking the batter, until you achieve a velvety-smooth consistency that promises tender, moist cupcakes. Important: Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything blends evenly, resulting in a batter with a rich, cocoa-infused aroma.
Bake the Cupcakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F to lock in that perfect bake for our Sprinkles Red Velvet Cupcakes. Line a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners and fill each one about two-thirds full with the prepared batter, ensuring even distribution for uniform rising and a golden edge.
Slide the tin into the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—watch for the cupcakes to develop a vibrant red crumb with a slight dome. Key stat: At this temperature, baking times can vary by oven, so check at 18 minutes to prevent over-baking, which might affect the moist texture.
| Oven Temperature (°F) | Baking Time (minutes) | Expected Yield |
|---|---|---|
| 350 | 18-22 | 12 cupcakes |
Cool the Cupcakes
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes to set their structure and retain moisture. Transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely for about 30 minutes, allowing the warm, aromatic cupcakes to firm up without becoming dense.
This step is crucial as it prevents the frosting from melting, ensuring our red velvet treats maintain their fluffy interior and prepare for a professional finish.
Frost and Decorate
With the cupcakes cooled, we prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together in a bowl using an electric mixer on high speed until creamy and lump-free—this takes about 2 minutes and yields a tangy, smooth frosting that complements the cupcake’s sweetness.
Gradually add the powdered sugar along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until you reach a spreadable consistency. Using a spatula or piping bag, generously frost each cupcake for an even layer that showcases the vibrant red beneath. Final touch: Sprinkle with red velvet crumbs or colorful sprinkles for a bakery-style presentation that elevates the visual appeal and adds a delightful crunch.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To help you plan ahead and enjoy our Sprinkles Red Velvet Recipe without last-minute rush, we recommend these strategies for preparing components in advance. This ensures your red velvet cupcakes retain their moist texture, vibrant color, and tangy cream cheese frosting while saving time.
Preparing the Batter Ahead
We suggest making the batter up to 24 hours in advance for optimal freshness. Start by following the batter-mixing steps from our earlier instructions, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it immediately to preserve the buttermilk’s tanginess and prevent the cocoa powder from oxidizing. When you’re ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even rising and a tender crumb.
Baking Cupcakes in Advance
Bake a full batch of red velvet cupcakes up to 3 days ahead or freeze them for longer storage. After cooling the cupcakes completely on a rack as described previously, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain their signature moisture. For freezing, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before frosting to avoid condensation that might affect the frosting’s creamy consistency.
Making Frosting Ahead
Our cream cheese frosting holds up well when prepared in advance, allowing you to focus on assembly later. Whip the frosting as per the recipe, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Before using, let it soften at room temperature for 15–20 minutes and re-whip briefly with an electric mixer to restore its smooth, tangy texture. For longer storage, freeze the frosting in portions for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight and re-whip to eliminate any graininess.
Storage Tips and Guidelines
To keep your Sprinkles Red Velvet Recipe components at their best, refer to the table below for key storage durations and methods. Proper storage helps preserve flavors and textures, ensuring bakery-quality results every time.
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Batter | Refrigerated in airtight container | Up to 24 hours | Let sit at room temperature before baking for even texture. |
| Unfrosted Cupcakes | Room temperature in airtight container, or refrigerated, or frozen | Up to 2 days (room temp), 3 days (fridge), 2 months (freezer) | Thaw frozen cupcakes in fridge to retain moisture. |
| Frosting | Refrigerated in airtight container, or frozen | Up to 5 days (fridge), 3 months (freezer) | Re-whip after thawing for optimal creaminess. |
| Assembled Cupcakes | Refrigerated in airtight container | Up to 3 days | Consume within this window for the freshest taste and texture. |
By following these make-ahead steps, you’ll streamline your baking process while keeping the iconic balance of flavors in our Sprinkles Red Velvet Recipe intact.
Conclusion
We’ve guided you through crafting the Sprinkles Red Velvet Recipe with ease and confidence.
Now it’s your turn to bring this bakery favorite into your home.
You’ll love how these cupcakes add a touch of joy to any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sprinkles Red Velvet Recipe?
The Sprinkles Red Velvet Recipe is a classic American treat featuring moist, vibrant red cupcakes with a tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s renowned for its balance of flavors, including cocoa, buttermilk, and a touch of food coloring, offering a bakery-quality dessert that’s easy to recreate at home for special occasions.
What ingredients are needed for the red velvet cupcakes?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, buttermilk, eggs, butter, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and baking essentials like salt and vinegar. For the frosting, gather cream cheese, powdered sugar, butter, and vanilla. These premium ingredients ensure the cupcakes’ signature moist texture and rich taste.
What equipment is required to make these cupcakes?
Essential tools include mixing bowls for combining ingredients, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, an electric mixer for smooth batter, a muffin tin and cupcake liners for baking, and a cooling rack. Optional items like piping bags help with professional frosting application.
How do I prepare the red velvet batter?
Start by sifting flour and mixing dry ingredients. Combine wet ingredients like buttermilk and food coloring, then blend with the dry mix using an electric mixer until smooth—avoid overmixing for a tender texture. Pour into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes.
Can I make the Sprinkles Red Velvet Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Bake cupcakes ahead and store unfrosted for up to 2 days at room temperature or freeze for a month. Frosting can be made 1-2 days early and kept in the fridge; let it soften before use for best results.
How should I store the finished cupcakes?
Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for a month. Once frosted, refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. Let them come to room temperature before serving to maintain moisture and flavor.
What tips ensure the cupcakes have a moist texture?
Use fresh buttermilk for acidity, avoid overmixing the batter to prevent toughness, and bake at the right temperature (350°F) for even rise. Cool cupcakes completely before frosting to lock in moisture, and measure ingredients accurately for the best results.