If you’re ready to wow your friends and family with a dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious, then you’ve got to try this Green Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These cupcakes are a vibrant twist on the classic red velvet, offering a pop of green that instantly lifts the spirit of any gathering. The perfectly moist texture, subtle cocoa undertones, and the luscious cream cheese frosting all come together in a harmony that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a birthday, or just because, these cupcakes are an unforgettable treat that’s as fun to make as they are to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is absolutely key, and this recipe shines because it uses straightforward pantry staples that combine to create magic. Each one plays a crucial role from the tender crumb of the cupcake to the tangy sweetness in the frosting, and of course, that eye-catching green color that makes these cupcakes unique.
- All-purpose flour: The backbone that gives structure and fluffiness to the cupcakes.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a hint of cocoa depth without overpowering the green color.
- Baking soda: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully and become light and airy.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Brings richness and a tender crumb to the batter.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes perfectly while contributing to their moist texture.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- Buttermilk: Imparts a subtle tanginess and keeps the cupcakes soft.
- White vinegar: Reacts with the baking soda for lift and enhances the texture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note that rounds out the flavor.
- Green food coloring: Gives the cupcakes their show-stopping green hue.
- Cream cheese (softened): The star of the frosting, rich and tangy, it perfectly complements the cupcake’s flavor.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a luscious consistency.
- Heavy cream: Lightens the frosting, giving it a smooth, spreadable texture.
How to Make Green Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with your favorite cupcake liners — this will keep the cupcakes from sticking and make clean-up a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening is evenly distributed and that no clumps remain in your batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process is what will give your cupcakes a beautifully soft texture and subtle sweetness.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition to incorporate air. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, buttermilk, and white vinegar until everything is combined smoothly.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients and Add Green Color
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cupcakes dense. Finally, stir in the green food coloring until the batter is uniformly tinted with that beautiful, vivid shade.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy and well combined. Finally, blend in the vanilla extract and heavy cream, and beat the frosting until it is light and spreadable.
Step 8: Frost and Decorate
Pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting generously onto each cooled cupcake. For a festive finish, decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, or gold dust. These little touches add sparkle and make the cupcakes truly irresistible.
How to Serve Green Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes to your Green Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe can elevate the presentation and add an extra dimension of flavor. Try a scattering of chopped pistachios or a few fresh mint leaves for a refreshing pop that complements the green theme perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these cupcakes with a cup of hot tea or a glass of milk to balance their sweetness. For a more decadent experience, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or fresh berries to bring out the cream cheese frosting’s tangy brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is everything! Display your Green Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe on a tiered stand or alongside matching green napkins for a coordinated look. For parties, place cupcake wrappers with fun patterns or tie little ribbons around each to make them extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once frosted, store your cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, keeping that luscious cream cheese frosting perfectly creamy without drying out the cake.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before frosting to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy your Green Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe fresh, simply bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving, as heat can affect the texture of the frosting.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
While regular milk can be used, buttermilk adds a pleasant tang and reacts with the baking soda to help the cupcakes rise better and stay moist. You could make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of milk if buttermilk is unavailable.
Why is the cocoa powder included if it’s a green velvet cupcake?
Good question! The cocoa powder gives just a subtle chocolate hint that enriches the flavor without overwhelming the natural green color. It’s part of what makes these cupcakes taste so special and different from plain vanilla cupcakes.
What type of green food coloring should I use?
Gel or paste green food coloring is best because it provides vibrant color without thinning the batter. Liquid dyes often require more quantity and can alter the texture of your cupcakes.
Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Be sure to bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick whisk before spreading to ensure it’s smooth and creamy.
How do I prevent the cupcakes from becoming dry?
The key is not to overbake and to ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. Also, using buttermilk adds extra moisture, and storing cupcakes properly in airtight containers keeps them soft longer.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Green Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe enough for anyone looking to add a splash of color and a burst of flavor to their baking repertoire. Once you try these, they’ll quickly become one of your all-time favorites, perfect for sharing smiles at any celebration or just brightening up a regular day at home. Happy baking!
Print
Green Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 18 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Green Velvet Cupcakes are a festive twist on the classic red velvet, featuring a vibrant green color, moist texture, and a smooth cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or special occasions, these cupcakes deliver a delightful balance of cocoa and vanilla flavors.
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons green food coloring
Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, indicating proper aeration.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Then stir in the vanilla extract, buttermilk, and white vinegar until everything is combined smoothly.
- Combine & Color: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Next, add the green food coloring and mix until the batter is evenly tinted.
- Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cupcakes: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before applying the frosting to prevent melting.
- Beat Cream Cheese & Butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar & Vanilla: Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture becomes fluffy. Then add vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating further until the frosting is light and creamy.
- Frost Cupcakes: Pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting onto the cooled cupcakes evenly.
- Decorate: Add optional decorations such as sprinkles, gold dust, or edible glitter for a festive touch.
Notes
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for a smooth frosting.
- Use a toothpick test to check if cupcakes are fully baked before removing from the oven.
- Green food coloring can be adjusted to achieve the desired shade.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Allow cupcakes to return to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
