Ingredients

• all-purpose flour - 1 ½ cups
• granulated sugar - 1 cup
• cocoa powder - 1 tablespoon
• baking soda - 1 teaspoon
• salt - ½ teaspoon
• vegetable oil - ½ cup
• buttermilk - 1 cup
• large eggs - 2
• red food coloring - 2 tablespoons
• vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• white vinegar - 1 teaspoon
• cream cheese - 8 ounces
• butter - ½ cup
• powdered sugar - 4 cups
• vanilla extract (for frosting) - 1 teaspoon

Instructions

1. 1.

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

2. 2.

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

3. 3.

   In another bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.

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 2/3 full.

6. 6.

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

7. 7.

   Allow the cupcakes to 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, mixing until well combined and fluffy.

10. 10.

    Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the cream cheese frosting and enjoy!