Ingredients

• all-purpose flour - 1 ¼ cups
• granulated sugar - 1 cup
• baking soda - 1 teaspoon
• salt - ¼ teaspoon
• cocoa powder - 1 tablespoon
• vegetable oil - ¾ cup
• buttermilk - ½ cup
• large egg - 1
• red food coloring - 2 tablespoons
• vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• white vinegar - 1 teaspoon
• cream cheese - 8 oz, softened
• unsalted butter - ¼ cup, softened
• powdered sugar - 2 cups
• vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon

Instructions

1. 1.

   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.

2. 2.

   In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.

3. 3.

   In another bowl, whisk together the oil, buttermilk, egg, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.

4. 4.

   Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. 5.

   Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

6. 6.

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

7. 7.

   Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. 8.

   For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

9. 9.

   Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.

10. 10.

    Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost with the cream cheese frosting.

Nutritional Facts