Pink Velvet Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting are soft, moist, and lightly chocolatey with a beautiful pink color that makes them perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, baby showers, or any special celebration. These cupcakes have the same tender texture as red velvet but with a sweeter, softer flavor. Topped with fluffy vanilla buttercream, they are simple, pretty, and always a crowd favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cupcakes are easy to make and beginner-friendly.They have a soft and moist crumb.They look beautiful without complicated decorating.They are perfect for holidays and parties.They can be made ahead of time.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Eggs
- Buttermilk
- Vanilla extract
- Pink food coloring
- Cocoa powder
- Baking soda
- White vinegar
- Salt
Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Heavy cream or milk
- Vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners and set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.Add vanilla extract and pink food coloring until you reach your desired shade.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Make the Batter
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients.Mix just until combined.Stir in vinegar gently.
Step 5: Bake
Divide the batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling about ⅔ full.Bake for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.Let cupcakes cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Buttercream
Beat butter until smooth and creamy.Add powdered sugar gradually, mixing well.Add vanilla, salt, and cream until fluffy and spreadable.
Step 7: Frost the Cupcakes
Pipe or spread vanilla buttercream frosting on completely cooled cupcakes.
Variations
- Add cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream
- Use heart-shaped sprinkles for decoration
- Fill cupcakes with strawberry jam or vanilla cream
- Add white chocolate chips to the batter
Tips
- Do not overmix the batter
- Use gel food coloring for bright pink color
- Make sure cupcakes are fully cool before frosting
- Store cupcakes covered to keep them moist
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with coffee or tea
- Perfect for Valentine’s Day dessert tables
- Pair with chocolate-covered strawberries
- Great for party platters
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
FAQs
What is the difference between pink velvet and red velvet?
Pink velvet has a lighter cocoa flavor and a sweeter taste with pink coloring instead of red.
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, bake the cupcakes one day ahead and frost them before serving.
Can I freeze pink velvet cupcakes?
Yes, freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, add 1 tablespoon vinegar to 1 cup milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Why add vinegar to velvet cupcakes?
It helps create a soft texture and reacts with baking soda for better rise.
Conclusion
Pink Velvet Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream Frosting are soft, pretty, and easy to make. They are perfect for special occasions and always impress with their color and flavor while staying simple enough for everyday baking.