Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This temperature is crucial for baking the cupcakes evenly. As the oven warms, prepare your muffin tins by lining them with paper liners, filling them with 16 to 18 liners for easy removal post-baking.
- Follow the instructions on the package of your red velvet cake mix to prepare the batter. This usually involves mixing the cake mix with eggs, water, and oil until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth batter.
- Divide the cake batter evenly among the prepared muffin tins, filling each about three-fourths full. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise without overflowing.
- Bake your cupcakes in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, take them out and let them cool completely before frosting.
- In a large bowl, add your unsalted butter. With an electric mixer, beat the butter until it becomes pale and smooth, taking about 30 seconds. This step is key to creating a light and fluffy frosting.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while mixing on low speed. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl occasionally to incorporate all the ingredients. This will prevent any sugar clumps in your frosting.
- Add the vanilla extract and salt to the bowl. Beat the mixture on low for about 15 to 20 seconds to combine. The flavors will merge beautifully, creating a delicious frosting base.
- Now, increase the speed to high and beat the frosting until it’s light and fluffy, which usually takes about 5 minutes. It may seem soft at first, but don’t worry, it will thicken up and increase in volume.
- Set aside about a cup of the buttercream for decorating. To this portion, add the black food coloring and mix until evenly colored. Place this frosting in a piping bag fitted with a small round tip for intricate decorating.
- Fill another piping bag with the remaining buttercream, using either a star or large round tip. Pipe swirls of frosting onto each cupcake, creating a beautiful presentation.
- Finally, using the black buttercream or chocolate sauce, pipe a string around the surface of the frosting for added decoration. Press M&M's vertically into the side of each cupcake, giving them the appearance of Christmas lights.
Notes
Please remember to keep the cupcakes stored properly and feel free to experiment with different flavorings and colors!