Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Cupcake Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Incorporate 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Add 1 cup of buttermilk, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 2-3 teaspoons of red gel food coloring, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and ½ teaspoon of salt, blending until smooth.
- Gradually fold in 2 cups of all-purpose flour until just combined.
Baking
- Spoon the red velvet batter into the lined muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Let cool completely.
Hollowing Centers
- Carefully cut out the centers of each cupcake, leaving a small border around the edges to create a cavity.
- Set aside the removed cupcake tops to make red velvet cake crumbs for decoration.
Filling Preparation
- In a medium bowl, mix ½ cup of sweetened condensed milk with 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter and a few drops of red food coloring until smooth and creamy.
- Fill each hollow center with this luscious filling, allowing it to slightly overflow.
Frosting Preparation
- Beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 3-4 cups of powdered sugar until creamy.
- Gradually add 2 tablespoons of milk and a splash of vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- Add more milk if needed to achieve a smooth, spreadable texture, then incorporate ivory or peach food coloring.
Frosting and Decorating
- Generously frost the tops of each filled cupcake with the prepared frosting.
- Drizzle red syrup or edible red gel on top for a chilling blood drip effect.
- Place candy fangs or gummy worms: feel free to get creative!
Serving
- Present the cupcakes on a dark platter surrounded by Halloween-themed decorations.
Nutrition
Notes
For best results, ensure buttercream is well-mixed for a silky finish. Bake and prepare filling a day in advance if desired. Store decorated cupcakes at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.