Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes

These Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes combine two irresistible desserts into one—moist, vibrant red velvet cake topped with a rich and creamy cheesecake filling. These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 box red velvet cake mix
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup water
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the red velvet cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water until the batter is well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
4. Fill the cupcake liners about 1/3 full with the red velvet batter.
5. Add a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture on top of the batter in each liner.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the red velvet batter for an extra layer of chocolate flavor.
• Mini Cupcakes: For bite-sized versions, make mini cupcakes and reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes.
• Toppings: Top the cupcakes with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of chocolate or cream cheese icing for added decoration and flavor.
• Flavor Twist: Add a splash of almond extract to the cream cheese filling for a subtle nutty undertone.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer shelf life, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: These cupcakes freeze well. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make these cupcakes without the cake mix? Yes, you can use homemade red velvet cake batter instead of a boxed mix. Just be sure to adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.
2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the filling? Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture might be slightly less creamy compared to full-fat cream cheese.
3. Can I add frosting to these cupcakes? Yes, you can top these cupcakes with a simple cream cheese frosting or whipped cream if you prefer a sweeter finish.
4. How can I make these cupcakes less sweet? Reduce the sugar in the cream cheese mixture by 1-2 tablespoons for a less sweet filling.
5. Can I use another type of cake mix? While red velvet is traditional, you can experiment with other cake mixes such as chocolate or vanilla for a different flavor.
6. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? Yes, these cupcakes can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
7. Can I add other fillings to the cupcakes? Yes, you can get creative by adding other fillings like fruit preserves or Nutella in place of or alongside the cream cheese mixture.
8. What’s the best way to check if the cupcakes are done? Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are done.
9. How can I prevent the cream cheese mixture from sinking? Make sure to add the cream cheese filling after you have placed the red velvet batter in the cupcake liners to help it stay on top.
10. Can I freeze the cream cheese filling separately? Yes, you can freeze the cream cheese filling in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.

Conclusion

Cheesecake Red Velvet Cupcakes are the ultimate indulgence, offering the perfect balance of rich red velvet cake and creamy cheesecake filling. They’re quick to make and sure to impress at any gathering, whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or simply a sweet treat for yourself. Try these cupcakes for a delectable dessert that combines two beloved flavors into one delicious bite!

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