Red Velvet Oreo Cupcakes

If you’re a cupcake enthusiast or just someone with a sweet tooth, prepare to be dazzled. These Red Velvet Oreo Cupcakes are a heavenly fusion of rich red velvet cake and the beloved Oreo cookie. They’re not just beautiful; they’re utterly delicious, making them the perfect treat for any occasion—be it a birthday, holiday gathering, or simply a cozy night in. With a smooth cream cheese frosting and a surprise crunch from Oreo pieces, these cupcakes will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

The Upside of Red Velvet Oreo Cupcakes

Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cupcake that has all the charm of classic red velvet cake but with an unexpected twist from the crunchy Oreo pieces. The contrast of textures—fluffy cake and creamy frosting with crunchy cookie bits—combined with the vibrant color of red velvet makes these cupcakes not just a dessert, but a centerpiece. Plus, they’re relatively easy to make, which means you can impress your friends and family without spending all day in the kitchen.

What’s in the Bowl

Let’s break down the ingredients for these stunning Red Velvet Oreo Cupcakes:

• 12 Red Velvet Oreo Cookies
• 1 cup cupcake flour
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (I used Challenge Butter)
• 1 pound confectioners’ sugar (about 3 1/2 cups, sifted)
• 2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract
• 6 chopped Red Velvet Oreos (optional)

Equipment Breakdown

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer – for easy mixing of the batter and frosting.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts.
• Cupcake pan – to hold your delightful creations.
• Cupcake liners – for easy removal and a pretty presentation.
• Spatula – for scraping down the sides of your bowls.
• Cooling rack – to cool your cupcakes properly.

How to Prepare Red Velvet Oreo Cupcakes

Now that you’re equipped with everything you need, let’s get to the fun part—baking!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with liners to prepare for your batter.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cupcake flour, cocoa powder, and kosher salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and egg. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth. Add the pure vanilla extract and red food coloring, mixing until well incorporated.

Step 4: Add Buttermilk

Pour in the buttermilk and mix until combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Activate the Baking Soda

In a small bowl, combine the baking soda and white vinegar. Allow it to fizz and then quickly fold it into the cupcake batter.

Step 7: Chop the Oreos

Chop the Red Velvet Oreo cookies into small pieces, and gently fold them into the batter, reserving a few for topping if desired.

Step 8: Fill Cupcake Liners

Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full to allow for rising.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool

Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth. Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar and beat until fluffy. Stir in the clear vanilla extract.

Step 12: Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the cream cheese frosting using a piping bag or a spatula. Sprinkle with additional chopped Red Velvet Oreos on top for added flair.

Substitutions by Diet

If you need to make some adjustments to cater to dietary preferences or restrictions, consider these substitutions:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of cupcake flour.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar.
• Vegan: Replace egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter and cream cheese.
• Reduced Sugar: Use a sugar substitute to taste, keeping in mind the texture may vary.

Method to the Madness

The method for creating these Red Velvet Oreo Cupcakes is straightforward, but the magic lies in the details. The key is to ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter. The combination of the rich cocoa powder with the red food coloring gives you that iconic red velvet hue, while the addition of the Oreo pieces creates delightful bursts of flavor in every bite. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the cupcakes, making them irresistible.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Want to keep your cupcakes fresh for longer? Here are some tips:

• Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• If you want to freeze them, place unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
• Frost only the cupcakes you plan to eat within a few days for the best texture and flavor.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cupcakes a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container without frosting until you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of red food coloring?

If you’d like to avoid food coloring, you can use beet juice as a natural alternative, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I use regular Oreos instead of Red Velvet Oreos?

Yes, feel free to use regular Oreos, but it will change the flavor profile from red velvet to more of a classic chocolate cupcake.

How can I make my frosting fluffier?

Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing, and beat the frosting until it is light and fluffy. Adding a bit more confectioners’ sugar can also help achieve a fluffier texture.

What to Make After This

If you loved these Red Velvet Oreo Cupcakes, try your hand at these other delicious desserts:

• Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies
• Lemon Blueberry Muffins
• Classic Vanilla Cupcakes
• Peanut Butter Chocolate Cake

Final Bite

These Red Velvet Oreo Cupcakes are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a little something to brighten your day, these cupcakes are sure to impress. With their stunning appearance and scrumptious taste, they embody the joy of baking—bringing together loved ones over sweet treats. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake a batch of happiness!