If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that combines rich flavors with a fun, crunchy twist, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Red Velvet Crush Cupcakes Recipe. These cupcakes boast that classic velvet red, tender crumb, and luscious cream cheese frosting, all crowned with an irresistible Oreo cookie crumble that adds just the right amount of crunch. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a delicious pick-me-up, these cupcakes bring joy to every bite and are surprisingly simple to make.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role, creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and that signature red glow. The list may look straightforward, but each one brings its magic to the cupcake batter, frosting, or crumble — making this dessert a true delight.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives your cupcakes structure and tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cupcakes rise perfectly light and fluffy.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes while contributing to the texture.
- 2 large eggs: Binds ingredients and helps with a soft, moist crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic depth to the batter and frosting.
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder: Provides subtle chocolate flavor essential to red velvet.
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring: Gives the cupcakes their iconic, vibrant red color.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderness to the crumb.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: For that irresistibly creamy and tangy frosting.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Gives the frosting a smooth, buttery texture.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting perfectly.
- 12 Oreo cookies, crushed: Adds the delightful cookie crunch and flavor to the topping.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Binds the Oreo crumble topping together.
- Optional garnishes – additional Oreo cookie crumbs and fresh berries: For a decorative and flavorful finish.
How to Make Red Velvet Crush Cupcakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to ensure easy removal after baking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, and salt—so they’re perfectly blended. Then, in a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, which sets the foundation for a tender cupcake. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate air and moisture seamlessly. Next, mix the unsweetened cocoa powder and red food coloring with a splash of water to make a vibrant paste, then add this to the butter mixture and blend thoroughly. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and the buttermilk to the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing just until everything combines to avoid a dense texture.
Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling they’re perfectly cooked through. Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack — this ensures the frosting won’t melt when applied.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While your cupcakes cool, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating after each addition until the frosting feels light and fluffy. Finish by mixing in the vanilla extract, which lends that classic sweet aroma and flavor.
Step 4: Make the Oreo Cookie Crumble
In a small bowl, combine crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. This binding step helps the crumble stay snug on top of the frosting, adding a delightful crunch with each bite.
Step 5: Assemble Your Red Velvet Crush Cupcakes Recipe
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on each one, ensuring a thick, luscious layer. Sprinkle the Oreo cookie crumble over the frosting and gently press so that it adheres nicely. If you want to be extra fancy, top with additional Oreo crumbs or fresh berries for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
How to Serve Red Velvet Crush Cupcakes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a bit of flair with garnishes brings these cupcakes to life. Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries provide a juicy contrast to the rich frosting, while extra Oreo crumbs add texture and that signature cookie flavor burst. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also make these cupcakes look even more inviting and festive.
Side Dishes
While these cupcakes are a dessert all on their own, pairing them with a cup of hot coffee or a refreshing glass of cold milk elevates the experience. If you’re serving at a party, simple fruit trays or light salads balance out the indulgence brilliantly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try placing your cupcakes in cupcake wrappers with fun patterns or colors to match a party theme. Presenting them on a tiered cake stand adds height and elegance, making them the centerpiece of your dessert table. You can also serve them individually in cute mini boxes or wrap them in decorative cellophane tied with a ribbon to give as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Red Velvet Crush Cupcakes Recipe fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your space is warm, it’s best to refrigerate them to protect the cream cheese frosting, though this can slightly firm up the texture.
Freezing
You can freeze these cupcakes either unfrosted or fully assembled. For best results, freeze the cupcakes un-frosted, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature, then frost and add the Oreo crumble topping fresh. Frosted cupcakes can also be frozen but make sure the container is airtight to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy a slightly warm cupcake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. You can gently warm an unfrosted cupcake in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds but avoid microwaving a frosted cupcake as the frosting may melt and lose its texture.
FAQs
Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, combine 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to mimic buttermilk’s acidity and texture. This makes sure your cupcakes stay moist and tender.
What if I don’t have red food coloring?
While red food coloring is what gives red velvet cupcakes their signature color, you can try natural alternatives like beet juice or powdered beetroot. These may slightly alter the shade but still provide a lovely red hue.
Can I use a different cookie instead of Oreos?
Absolutely! While Oreos give that classic cookies-and-cream flavor, feel free to experiment with other chocolate sandwich cookies or even chopped chocolate bars to customize the crumb topping to your liking.
How long do these cupcakes stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, your Red Velvet Crush Cupcakes Recipe will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. Beyond that, they may begin to dry out or the frosting may lose its optimal texture.
Is it necessary to cream the butter and sugar?
Creaming butter and sugar is important as it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in light and fluffy cupcakes. Skipping this step might lead to denser cupcakes, so it’s well worth the extra minute or two.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Crush Cupcakes Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it’s not only delicious but fun to make and impressive to share. The way the classic flavors blend with that crunchy Oreo topping is pure magic, and I can’t wait for you to try it too. So, grab your mixing bowls and start baking — these cupcakes are ready to steal the show!
Print
Red Velvet Crush Cupcakes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these Red Velvet Crush Cupcakes featuring moist, tender red velvet cupcakes topped with creamy homemade cream cheese frosting and a crunchy Oreo cookie crumble. Perfect for celebrations or a special treat, these cupcakes combine classic flavors with a fun, textured twist.
Ingredients
For the Red Velvet Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Oreo Cookie Crumble:
- 12 Oreo cookies, crushed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For Garnish (Optional):
- Additional Oreo cookie crumbs
- Fresh berries
Instructions
- Prepare the Red Velvet Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing in between. Mix the cocoa powder and red food coloring with a bit of water to form a paste, then add it to the butter mixture and mix well. Add the dry ingredients alternately with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Prepare the Oreo Cookie Crumble: In a small bowl, combine the crushed Oreo cookies with melted butter until well mixed and the crumbs are coated.
- Assemble the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top of each. Sprinkle the Oreo cookie crumble evenly over the frosting and gently press to help it stick. For a decorative touch, garnish with additional Oreo crumbs or fresh berries if desired.
Notes
- Make sure to cool the cupcakes completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- You can use regular or reduced-fat cream cheese for the frosting depending on your preference.
- For a deeper red color, add an extra teaspoon of red food coloring if desired.
- Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Allow refrigerated cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor.
