Red Velvet Cupcakes for Valentine's Day

Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day with a delicious twist on a classic favorite—gluten-free red velvet cupcakes!

These delightful treats are not only visually stunning with their vibrant red hue and creamy frosting but also cater to those with gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can indulge in a sweet moment.

Whether you're baking for your special someone or hosting a romantic gathering, these moist and flavorful cupcakes are sure to impress and make the day even more memorable.

Let’s dive into this easy recipe that combines love and flavor in every bite!

Ingredients for the cupcakes

• 2 ½ cups of rice flour or gluten-free blend (see note 1)
• 2 tablespoons of baking soda
• 1 ½ tablespoons of baking powder
• 4 tablespoons of cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup of buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons of vanilla essence
• 4 teaspoons of red food coloring

Ingredients for the cream cheese frosting

• 100 grams of butter
• 100 grams of powdered sugar
• 200 grams of cream cheese
• Pink food coloring (optional)

Decoration (optional)

• Sprinkles

How to make gluten-free red velvet cupcakes

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes

For the cupcakes:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients (vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs) and sugar until well combined.
3. Add the cocoa powder and red food coloring to the wet mixture and beat until smooth. If you want to adjust the color, this is the time to do it because we don’t want to overmix the batter later.
4. Sift in the remaining dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Mix until smooth but make sure not to overmix.
5. Fill cupcake liners about ⅔ full with the batter.
6. Bake for 18  minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the cream cheese frosting:

1. In a bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar together for a few minutes until smooth. Start with low speed and increase the speed until it reaches a smooth texture. About 3 minutes.
2. Add the cold cream cheese and continue beating until smooth and fluffy. For about 4 minutes on medium speed.
3. Optionally, add pink food coloring to a portion of the frosting for a two-tone effect. Refrigerate the frosting until ready to use.

Assembly:

• Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, decorate with the prepared cream cheese frosting and decorate with sprinkles if using.

Notes:

• Using almond flour or a blend may result in a darker color, while rice flour tends to yield a more vibrant red color.
• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results except for the cream cheese.
• Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for a few minutes until it curdles.
• Ensure the cream cheese is cold when adding it to the frosting for the best consistency.
• Double-check all ingredients to ensure they are free from gluten and other allergens that you or your guests may need to avoid.

FAQs:

Can I use almond flour instead of rice flour?

Almond flour can be used, but note that it may affect the color of the cupcakes.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

 How can I adjust the sweetness of the cream cheese frosting?

If you prefer a less sweet frosting, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese frosting to suit your taste. Add the sugar gradually, tasting as you go.

Can I freeze the cream cheese frosting?

Cream cheese frosting can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bring it to room temperature before using. Remember to give it a good stir to restore its creamy texture.

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