St. Patrick’s Day Green Velvet Cupcakes

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St. Patrick’s Day Green Velvet Cupcakes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Festive & Fun – Bright green color makes them perfect for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
  • Soft & Velvety – The tender crumb is just like traditional red velvet but with a green twist.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting – Rich, tangy, and perfectly complements the sweet cupcake.
  • Customizable – Add sprinkles, shamrock decorations, or gold dust for extra flair.
  • Crowd-Pleasing – Always a hit at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cupcakes:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tbsp green gel food coloring (or liquid, for vibrant color)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For Decoration:

  • Green sprinkles
  • Edible gold dust or glitter
  • Mini shamrock candies

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, green food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix until smooth.
  3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

  1. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
  2. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Increase the speed and beat until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Decorate the Cupcakes

  1. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost generously with the cream cheese frosting using a piping bag or spatula.
  2. Decorate with green sprinkles, edible gold dust, or mini shamrock candies for a festive touch.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Cocoa Powder Magic – Adds a subtle chocolate flavor and enhances the green color.
  • Buttermilk Base – Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender.
  • Food Coloring Pop – Gel-based food coloring provides a vibrant, eye-catching green hue.

Variations to Try

  • Non-Alcoholic Option – Skip the cream cheese frosting and use a simple vanilla buttercream instead.
  • Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free flour blend for the cupcakes.
  • Extra Flavor – Add a splash of peppermint extract to the batter for a minty twist.
  • Mini Cupcakes – Bake smaller versions for bite-sized treats.

Tips for Success

  • Room-Temperature Ingredients – Ensure eggs, buttermilk, and butter are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
  • Don’t Overmix – Mix the batter just until combined to avoid dense cupcakes.
  • Storage – Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; let come to room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • St. Patrick’s Day Spread – Serve alongside other green-themed desserts like shamrock cookies or green Rice Krispie treats.
  • Romantic Touch – Dust with edible gold glitter or sprinkle crushed pistachios for elegance.
  • Party Platter – Arrange on a tiered stand with festive decorations for a colorful display.

Final Thoughts

These St. Patrick’s Day Green Velvet Cupcakes are a delightful, festive dessert that’s as delicious as it is visually stunning. With their soft, velvety texture, rich cream cheese frosting, and vibrant green color, they’re sure to be the star of your holiday spread—or any celebration that calls for a touch of whimsy.

Have you ever made a velvet cake or cupcake before? Share your favorite variations or serving ideas below!

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