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Red Velvet with Spicy Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

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  • Author: Mari
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cupcakes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Fiery and decadent, these Aries-inspired Red Velvet Cupcakes with Spicy Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting turn up the heat on a classic treat. Moist and vibrant red velvet meets a kick of cayenne and cinnamon in the frosting, all crowned with edible gold leaf and flame-shaped fondant for a bold zodiac celebration. Perfect for Aries birthdays or anyone who loves a little spice with their sweet.


Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cupcakes:

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/2 tsp baking soda

  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil

  • 1/2 cup buttermilk, room temperature

  • 1 large egg, room temperature

  • 1 tbsp red food coloring

  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 tsp white vinegar

For the Spicy Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar

  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

 

  • Edible gold leaf flakes

  • Flame-shaped fondant toppers (orange and red swirled)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.

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

  3. In another bowl, mix oil, buttermilk, egg, red food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar until smooth.

  4. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry, stirring just until incorporated.

  5. Divide batter evenly among liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

  6. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

  7. Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

  8. To make frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), and vanilla. Beat until light and fluffy.

  9. Frost cooled cupcakes using a star tip to create a rose swirl.

  10. Decorate with edible gold leaf and flame fondant toppers for an Aries-worthy finish.


Notes

  • Cayenne is optional but gives an exciting heat that enhances the cinnamon.

  • Edible gold leaf adds a luxe touch—handle gently with tweezers.

  • Best served the day they’re frosted for maximum visual and flavor impact.