Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes are a luscious and visually striking dessert that epitomizes indulgence and elegance. Renowned for her accessible approach to baking, Nigella’s version of the classic red velvet cake is soft, moist, and perfectly balanced with a slight tang.

These cupcakes are often topped with a smooth, creamy frosting that contrasts beautifully with the rich red hue of the cake itself. What makes this recipe special is the perfect harmony of flavors: the cake is subtly chocolatey, with a hint of vanilla and tang from buttermilk, while the frosting is velvety and sweet.

These cupcakes, though somewhat extravagant in appearance, are quite simple to prepare and deliver a show-stopping result. Whether served at a party, a special occasion, or as a treat to indulge in during an afternoon, Nigella’s Red Velvet Cupcakes will undoubtedly impress both the eyes and the taste buds.

Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes, you’ll need the following ingredients to create the perfect batch of cupcakes:

1. For The Cupcakes

   • 250g plain flour (all-purpose flour)
   • 50g cocoa powder (unsweetened)
   • 1 teaspoon baking powder
   • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
   • 1/2 teaspoon salt
   • 240ml vegetable oil (or sunflower oil)
   • 200g caster sugar (fine granulated sugar)
   • 2 large eggs
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 240ml buttermilk (room temperature)
   • 2 tablespoons red food coloring (gel or liquid)
   • 1 tablespoon white vinegar (this adds a slight tang and reacts with the baking soda for lift)

2. For The Cream Cheese Frosting

   • 250g cream cheese (softened)
   • 50g unsalted butter (softened)
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 300g icing sugar (powdered sugar)
   • A pinch of salt

Equipment Needed

To ensure you can bake Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes without any issues, here’s the essential equipment you’ll need:

• Cupcake tin: A standard 12-hole muffin tin or cupcake pan.
• Paper cupcake liners: For easy removal and to make the cupcakes more aesthetically pleasing.
• Mixing bowls: A couple of medium and large mixing bowls for combining dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric mixer or whisk: This will help you achieve a smooth batter and creamy frosting.
• Measuring spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients like baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.
• Measuring cups: To measure liquids and dry ingredients.
• Spoon or ice cream scoop: For portioning out the cupcake batter evenly into the cupcake liners.
• Cooling rack: To allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting them.
• Spatula or piping bag: To apply the frosting smoothly over the cooled cupcakes.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes

1. Prepare The Oven And Tin

   • Preheat your oven to 170°C (325°F). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper cupcake liners.

2. Mix The Dry Ingredients

   • In a medium bowl, sift together the plain flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Combine The Wet Ingredients

   • In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil and sugar until smooth and combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Add The Buttermilk And Food Coloring

   • Gradually add half of the sifted dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula or whisk.
   • Pour in the buttermilk and red food coloring, stirring until the color is evenly distributed. Add the rest of the dry ingredients and continue mixing until smooth.

5. Activate The Vinegar

   • Finally, stir in the white vinegar. This will react with the baking soda to help the cupcakes rise and create a soft, airy texture.

6. Fill The Cupcake Liners

   • Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

7. Bake

   • Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

8. Cool

   • Remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

9. Make The Cream Cheese Frosting

   • While the cupcakes are cooling, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
   • Gradually add the icing sugar, a little at a time, and continue to beat until the frosting is smooth and light.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
10. Frost the Cupcakes:

• Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a spatula or piping bag to frost each cupcake with a generous swirl of the cream cheese frosting.

1. Serve and Enjoy:

• Enjoy your gorgeous red velvet cupcakes immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

1. Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring gives a richer, more vibrant red color than liquid food coloring, which can affect the texture of your cupcakes.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, buttermilk, and butter are at room temperature to help the ingredients blend smoothly and evenly.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Gently stir until just combined.
4. Let the Cupcakes Cool Completely: Never frost the cupcakes while they are still warm, as the frosting may melt. Allow them to cool fully to retain their fluffiness.
5. Chill the Frosting: If you find the frosting too soft, place it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up before piping or spreading it on the cupcakes.
6. Frost Generously: These cupcakes deserve a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. It’s a key element of the treat, so don’t hold back!

Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes are the epitome of a show-stopping dessert. With their rich, velvety texture and smooth cream cheese frosting, they are guaranteed to impress at any gathering.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just getting started, this recipe offers a simple yet stunning approach to making these iconic cupcakes. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you’ll create a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Indulge in the decadence of these cupcakes, and enjoy the moment of sweet bliss with every bite!.

Simple Twists On Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe

Nigella Lawson’s red velvet cupcakes are a beloved treat that combines the iconic rich, velvety crumb of the cake with the tangy cream cheese frosting. However, while her original recipe is delicious in its own right, there are plenty of fun and simple ways to give these cupcakes a personal touch and elevate them even further. Here are a few twists to consider:

1. Add a Splash of Flavour to the Frosting:
   While Nigella’s recipe uses classic cream cheese frosting, you can enhance the flavor with additional ingredients. Try incorporating lemon zest or vanilla bean paste for a brighter, more aromatic note. For a festive twist, add a bit of peppermint extract during the holiday season, or perhaps some orange zest for a citrusy edge.

2. Swap in a Different Frosting:
   If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting or want something a little sweeter, consider switching it up. A buttercream frosting, made with butter, icing sugar, and a touch of milk, would complement the cupcake’s texture beautifully. For something even more decadent, chocolate ganache could offer a rich, silky finish, balancing the slight tang of the red velvet.

3. Go for a Nutty Surprise:
   For some added texture, chop up some toasted pecans or walnuts and sprinkle them on top of the frosting or even fold them directly into the batter. The nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the soft, moist cake and cream cheese topping.

4. Add a Layer of Chocolate:
   Since red velvet is essentially a mild chocolate cake with a tangy twist, adding a thin layer of dark chocolate ganache inside the cupcakes would be a treat for chocolate lovers. After filling the cupcake liners halfway, drop a spoonful of ganache and then cover it with more batter before baking. This adds a gooey, decadent center to the already moist and tender cake.

5. Turn Them into Mini Cakes:
   If you’re hosting a party and want to add a more dramatic twist, you can bake Nigella’s red velvet recipe in a mini cake form. This allows you to build individual cakes layered with frosting in between each layer. It’s an elevated presentation that would impress guests and create a more indulgent experience.

6. Infuse with Coffee:
   Give the flavor a little depth by adding a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder to the batter. The coffee will enhance the chocolate flavor of the red velvet cake without overpowering it, making it a subtle but welcome twist.

By playing around with these ideas, you can create a batch of cupcakes that not only honors Nigella’s iconic recipe but also allows you to add your own touch of flavor and creativity.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Once you’ve baked and indulged in those delicious red velvet cupcakes, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to keep them fresh and moist for as long as possible. Follow these tips for optimal storage:

1. Cool Completely Before Storing:
   First, make sure your cupcakes have completely cooled before storing them. Placing warm cupcakes in an airtight container can cause condensation, which will lead to sogginess and could affect the texture of both the cake and frosting.

2. Airtight Containers are Key:
   Use an airtight container to prevent the cupcakes from drying out. This will keep them fresh for a few days. If you have multiple cupcakes, stack them carefully with a layer of wax paper or parchment paper between them to prevent them from sticking together or smearing the frosting.

3. Room Temperature vs. Refrigeration:
   If you plan to eat the cupcakes within 2-3 days, storing them at room temperature in an airtight container is fine. However, if you want to extend their freshness beyond that, it’s best to refrigerate them. Just note that cream cheese frosting may become firmer in the fridge, so be sure to allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor and texture.

4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage:
   If you have more cupcakes than you can eat within a few days, you can freeze them!

   Simply place the cupcakes (without the frosting) on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow the cupcakes to thaw at room temperature and then frost them. This method ensures that they maintain their texture without the risk of freezer burn.

5. Frost Separately:
   If you plan to freeze cupcakes, it’s better to freeze the cake and frosting separately. While cupcakes freeze well, frosting may change its consistency upon thawing. To maintain the freshness of both, freeze the cake and frosting separately, and frost the cupcakes once they’ve thawed.

By following these storage tips, you’ll be able to keep your leftover red velvet cupcakes fresh, allowing you to enjoy them for days to come without compromising on flavor or texture.

What To Eat With Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes?

Nigella Lawson’s red velvet cupcakes are rich, sweet, and indulgent, making them perfect for pairing with a variety of drinks and light snacks. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dessert experience:

1. Hot Beverages

   • Coffee: A well-brewed cup of coffee is a classic pairing. The slight bitterness of the coffee contrasts wonderfully with the sweet richness of the cupcakes, and it complements the chocolate notes in the cake. Opt for a strong espresso or a creamy cappuccino.
   • Tea: For a lighter alternative, a cup of tea is always a delightful choice. Black tea, such as Earl Grey or Assam, will balance the cupcakes’ sweetness. For a more refreshing option, try a green tea or a fragrant herbal tea like chamomile or mint.

2. Fresh Berries:
   Red velvet cupcakes pair perfectly with fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. Their tartness cuts through the richness of the cupcake, providing a refreshing contrast. You can serve a few berries on the side or even top the frosting with a few for added visual appeal and flavor.

3. Whipped Cream or Ice Cream:
   A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy, light counterpoint to the dense, rich texture of the red velvet. For an extra indulgent treat, you could even serve the cupcakes with a side of chocolate ice cream.

4. Chocolate Fondue:
   If you want to go all out, serve your cupcakes with a small pot of melted chocolate fondue. Dipping bites of red velvet cake into the warm chocolate creates a decadent, satisfying dessert experience.

5. Nuts or Candied Pecans:
   Adding a side of crunchy, candied pecans or toasted almonds enhances the flavor profile of the red velvet cupcakes. The sweet and salty contrast adds depth to the dessert, making each bite even more exciting.

6. Milkshakes:
   For a fun twist, serve your red velvet cupcakes with a milkshake, preferably vanilla or chocolate. The thick and creamy milkshake offers a decadent treat alongside the already indulgent cupcakes.

These pairing ideas can help you craft the perfect dessert experience, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to something special.

Conclusion

Nigella Lawson’s red velvet cupcakes are a timeless classic that brings joy to any occasion with their soft, tender cake and rich, tangy frosting. Whether you stick to her original recipe or experiment with some simple twists, these cupcakes are versatile enough to suit every taste. Properly storing leftovers ensures that you can savor these sweet treats for a few extra days, and pairing them with the right drinks or snacks only enhances the experience.

From sipping coffee or tea to enjoying a side of fresh berries or even a decadent milkshake, the possibilities are endless when it comes to elevating your red velvet cupcake experience. Whether it’s for a special celebration or an afternoon snack, these cupcakes are sure to delight all who partake!

FAQs

What Makes Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes Different From Other Recipes?

Nigella Lawson’s red velvet cupcakes stand out because of her use of simple ingredients combined with her emphasis on a smooth, rich texture. She incorporates buttermilk and a touch of cocoa powder to create a subtle yet deep flavor profile. Unlike many recipes, which call for food coloring in excess, Nigella’s version uses just the right amount to achieve that iconic red hue without overwhelming the taste.

Can I Make Nigella Lawson’s Red Velvet Cupcakes Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make Nigella Lawson’s red velvet cupcakes ahead of time. They stay fresh for a couple of days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

If you want to make them even further in advance, you can freeze the cupcakes without the frosting for up to three months. Just thaw them before frosting them with the cream cheese icing.

What Kind Of Frosting Does Nigella Lawson Use For Her Red Velvet Cupcakes?

Nigella Lawson pairs her red velvet cupcakes with a deliciously creamy cream cheese frosting. The frosting is made with a combination of cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract. It’s perfectly smooth and slightly tangy, which complements the subtle richness of the cupcakes beautifully.