If you’re craving a show-stopping dessert that’s both adorable and delicious, pink velvet cupcakes are exactly what you need. These soft, fluffy cupcakes come together in one bowl with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, and the pretty pink hue makes them perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, baby showers, or anytime you want something fun and pretty to share.

Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes

Not only are these cupcakes tasty, they’re also easy to make. The slight tang of buttermilk paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting gives you a rich flavor without a lot of fuss, so even beginner bakers can feel confident serving them.

Close-up of a pink strawberry cupcake with vanilla buttercream frosting and pink sprinkles, partially eaten and placed on a lace doily.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the step-by-step, here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cupcakes:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Sugar
Cold butter (cut into pieces)
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Buttermilk
Pink food coloring (6–8 drops)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Softened cream cheese
Softened butter
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Half-and-half or heavy cream (just enough for smooth texture)

How to Make Pink Velvet Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

Start by whisking together all the dry ingredients. Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until the pieces are roughly the size of peas — this helps create those light, airy pockets in the baked cupcakes.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in the eggs one at a time, and then stir in the vanilla and buttermilk. Finally, add a few drops of pink food coloring and stir until your batter turns a cheerful pastel shade.

Step 3: Fill and Bake

Use a scoop or spoon to fill cupcake liners about halfway to two-thirds full. This gives the cupcakes enough room to puff up into perfect domes as they bake. Bake at 350°F for 15–18 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly touched.

Step 4: Cool Completely

Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting — this helps your frosting hold its shape and prevents it from melting into the cake.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then beat in just enough half-and-half or heavy cream to reach your desired frosting texture. Once it’s light and fluffy, you can pipe or spread it on cooled cupcakes.

Decoration Tips

A little creativity goes a long way — add pink edible pearls, sprinkles, or tie a ribbon around your cupcake stand for a festive presentation. You can even tint the frosting slightly pink for a more uniform look.

Perfect Pairings & Dessert Ideas

These pink velvet cupcakes fit right in with other fun treats. Try mixing in a batch of festive bow arrow cupcakes for themed parties, or whip up honey peach cream cheese cupcakes when you want a fruity twist. For a whole dessert spread, think Valentine’s Day dessert recipes like strawberry shortcake or chocolate-covered strawberries.

Serving & Storage

Serve these cupcakes at room temperature with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Final Notes

With just a few simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can make pink velvet cupcakes that look as good as they taste. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cupcakes are sure to bring smiles and sweet moments to any gathering.

Pink Velvet Cupcakes: Irresistible Cream Cheese Frosted Treats for Every Celebration