Name: Rudolph the Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 24
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Cupcakes:; 18¼ oz Duncan Hines Red Velvet Cake mix; 6 oz Chobani Greek yogurt; 1⅓ cups water; 2 large egg whites; For Chocolate glaze:; 1½ cups powdered sugar; 3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 3 tbsp milk; ½ tsp vanilla extract; salt; For Vanilla Glaze:; ½ cup powdered sugar; ⅛ tsp clear vanilla extract; 2 tsp milk; For Face:; 24 vanilla wafers; 72 M&M's; 12 pretzels

Rudolph's red velvet cupcake is a festive delight that will bring joy to your holiday gatherings. The creamy Greek yogurt adds a moist texture to the red velvet cake mix, while the blend of chocolate and vanilla glaze gives a delightful contrast to the rich, vibrant red cake. Decorated with vanilla wafers, M&M's, and pretzels, these cupcakes are as fun to make as they are to eat.

Photos of Rudolph the Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry items. However, the Duncan Hines red velvet cake mix and Chobani Greek yogurt might not be readily available in every home. These are essential for the recipe, so be sure to add them to your shopping list. You'll also need M&M's for decorating the reindeer faces, and pretzels for the antlers - a fun twist that will surely delight kids and adults alike.

Essential Ingredients for Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcakes

Red velvet cake mix: Rich and flavorful, this forms the base for our cupcakes. The red color gives them their unique appearance.

Greek yogurt: Adds a creamy, tangy flavor and helps to keep the cupcakes moist.

Egg whites: Provide structure and stability to the cupcakes.

Powdered sugar: Used in both the chocolate and vanilla glaze for a smooth, sweet finish.

Cocoa powder: Adds a deep chocolate flavor to the glaze.

Milk: Used in both glazes to achieve the right consistency.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma and flavor to the vanilla glaze.

Vanilla wafers: Used as the base for Rudolph's face.

M&M's: These colorful candies are used to create Rudolph's eyes and nose.

Pretzels: The perfect shape for Rudolph's antlers, adding a fun, crunchy texture.

One reader, Kinna Badillo says:

I recently tried Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcake recipe and it was a hit! The cupcakes turned out moist and flavorful, and the chocolate and vanilla glazes added a delightful touch. The festive Rudolph decorations were a hit with my family and friends. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a fun and delicious treat!

Kinna Badillo

Techniques Required for Perfect Red Velvet Cupcakes

How to prepare cupcake batter: Combine the red velvet cake mix, Greek yogurt, water, and egg whites in a large mixing bowl. Beat until well combined.

How to make chocolate glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl until smooth.

How to make vanilla glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, clear vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl until smooth.

How to assemble Rudolph cupcakes: Dip the tops of the cooled cupcakes into the chocolate glaze and quickly press a vanilla wafer onto the bottom of each cupcake. Allow the glaze to harden for 5 to 10 minutes. Using the vanilla glaze, pipe two circles for the eyes and press chocolate M&M's into the glaze. Pipe the vanilla glaze for the nose and press a red M&M onto the nose. Finally, insert pretzel pieces for the ears.

How To Make Rudolph the Red Velvet Cupcake

The all-time favorite red velvet cupcake customized for a perfect Holiday treat with this Rudolph the Red Velvet Cupcake with m&ms and pretzels for design.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cupcakes:

18¼ozDuncan Hines Red Velvet Cake mix
6ozChobani Greek yogurt,fat-free
1⅓cupswater
2large egg whites

For Chocolate Glaze:

1½cupspowdered sugar
3tbspunsweetened cocoa powder
3tbspmilk,fat-free
½tspvanilla extract
salt

For Vanilla Glaze:

½cuppowdered sugar
⅛tspclear vanilla extract
2tspmilk,fat free

For Face:

24vanilla wafers,low fat, small
72m&m’s,24 red, 48 brown
12pretzels,broken in half to create ears

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Line cupcake tins with liners.
Combine all the cake ingredients in a large mixing bowl and beat until combined.
Pour into prepared liners.
Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow cooling before frosting.

Chocolate Glaze

Whisk all the ingredients in a medium bowl.
Keep the chocolate glaze in the bowl.
Make the vanilla glaze by whisking all the vanilla glaze ingredients in another bowl.
Place vanilla glaze in a piping bag.

To Assemble:

Dip the tops of the cupcakes into the chocolate glaze and quickly press the vanilla wafer onto the bottom of each cupcake.
Let the glaze harden for at least 5 to 10 minutes.
Using the vanilla glaze, pipe 2 circles for the eyes and press the chocolate m&m’s into the glaze.
Pipe the vanilla glaze for the nose and press the red m&m onto the nose.
Then insert pretzel pieces for the ears and they are complete.

Nutrition

Calories: 878.76kcal
Fat: 32.98g
Saturated Fat: 19.82g
Trans Fat: 0.29g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.35g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.57g
Carbohydrates: 137.60g
Fiber: 4.76g
Sugar: 111.27g
Protein: 8.61g
Cholesterol: 21.33mg
Sodium: 489.85mg
Calcium: 207.99mg
Potassium: 417.28mg
Iron: 2.42mg
Vitamin A: 81.70µg
Vitamin C: 0.78mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe

When making the chocolate glaze and vanilla glaze, ensure that the powdered sugar is sifted to avoid any lumps. This will result in a smoother and more appealing glaze. Additionally, when dipping the cupcakes into the glaze, allow any excess to drip off for a clean finish. For the face decorations, it's best to have all your elements ready before you start. This way, you can quickly press the M&M's and pretzels into the glaze before it hardens, ensuring they stick properly.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to save time and ensure you have everything you need.

Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer to quickly and efficiently mix the cupcake batter, saving time and effort compared to mixing by hand.

Bake multiple batches: Consider baking multiple batches of cupcakes simultaneously to maximize oven use and save time.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work to streamline the cooking process and save time on cleanup.

Prep ahead: Prepare the cupcake batter and glazes ahead of time, storing them in the refrigerator until ready to use for quick assembly.

Substitute Ingredients For Rudolph the Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe

duncan hines red velvet cake mix - Substitute with homemade red velvet cake mix: You can make your own red velvet cake mix by combining all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and red food coloring. This allows you to control the quality and flavor of the mix.
chobani greek yogurt - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream can provide a similar tangy flavor and moisture to the cupcakes as Greek yogurt.
water - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk can add a richer flavor and tender texture to the cupcakes compared to water.
egg whites - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cupcakes, similar to egg whites.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: Granulated sugar can be processed into a finer texture to mimic powdered sugar in the glaze.
unsweetened cocoa powder - Substitute with melted chocolate: Melted chocolate can provide a richer and smoother texture to the glaze compared to cocoa powder.
milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can add a subtle tropical flavor to the glaze and works well with the red velvet flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can add a unique nutty flavor to the glaze, complementing the red velvet cupcakes.
vanilla wafers - Substitute with shortbread cookies: Shortbread cookies can provide a similar crunchy texture and buttery flavor to the cupcake decorations.
m&m's - Substitute with chocolate chips: Chocolate chips can be used as a colorful and chocolatey alternative for decorating the cupcakes.
pretzels - Substitute with chocolate-covered pretzels: Chocolate-covered pretzels can add a sweet and salty crunch to the cupcake decorations.

Presentation Ideas for Festive Red Velvet Cupcakes

Elevate the cupcake: Place the red velvet cupcake on a pristine white plate, ensuring it is the focal point of the presentation. The vibrant red color of the cupcake should be showcased prominently.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Skillfully drizzle the chocolate glaze over the cupcake, creating elegant and intricate patterns that enhance the visual appeal.
Emphasize symmetry: Position the vanilla wafer at the base of the cupcake with precision, ensuring that each cupcake is uniform in appearance.
Highlight attention to detail: Use a delicate hand to pipe the vanilla glaze for the eyes and nose, ensuring that each feature is meticulously crafted to perfection.
Create a picturesque scene: Arrange the cupcakes on a serving platter in a circular pattern, allowing each one to complement the overall presentation.
Utilize negative space: Ensure that the plating allows for ample negative space, allowing the cupcakes to stand out and captivate the eye.
Incorporate natural elements: Garnish the platter with a touch of edible greenery or flowers to add a pop of color and a sense of freshness to the presentation.
Showcase elegance and sophistication: Present the cupcakes on a sleek, modern serving dish that exudes refinement and complements the luxurious nature of the dish.
Pay homage to tradition: Incorporate a touch of nostalgia by presenting the cupcakes on a vintage-inspired cake stand, adding a sense of warmth and familiarity to the presentation.
Create a sensory experience: Enhance the presentation with a subtle, aromatic mist of edible fragrance that complements the flavors of the cupcakes, engaging all the senses.

Essential Tools for Baking Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe

Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food by providing a consistent heat source.
Cupcake tins: Specialized baking tins designed for making cupcakes, typically made of metal or silicone.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, typically made of glass, ceramic, or stainless steel.
Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending ingredients together and incorporating air into mixtures.
Piping bag: A cone-shaped bag used to pipe semi-solid foods by pressing them through a narrow opening at one end.
Toothpick: A small, pointed stick used for testing the doneness of baked goods.
Baking liners: Paper or silicone liners used to prevent baked goods from sticking to the pan.
Medium bowl: A bowl of moderate size used for mixing and preparing ingredients.
Large mixing bowl: A bowl of substantial size used for combining larger quantities of ingredients.
Pastry brush: A kitchen tool with bristles used for spreading butter, oil, or glazes onto food.
Pretzel: A baked snack in the form of a brittle, knotted stick.
Food processor: An electric kitchen appliance used for chopping, mixing, or pureeing food.
Piping bag: A cone-shaped bag used to pipe semi-solid foods by pressing them through a narrow opening at one end.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Red Velvet Cupcakes

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing.
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To freeze the cupcakes:
- Place the cooled cupcakes on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2 hours.
- Once frozen, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped cupcakes in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
To thaw frozen cupcakes:
- Remove the desired number of cupcakes from the freezer and unwrap them.
- Allow the cupcakes to thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours or in the refrigerator overnight.
Note: It's best to freeze the cupcakes without the chocolate glaze and decorations. Decorate the cupcakes after thawing for the best appearance and texture.
If you have already decorated the cupcakes, you can still freeze them, but the decorations may not look as pristine after thawing.
Avoid refreezing previously frozen cupcakes, as this can negatively affect their texture and quality.

How To Reheat Leftover Red Velvet Cupcakes

To reheat leftover Rudolph's red velvet cupcakes, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will help the cupcakes warm up evenly without drying them out or making them too crispy on the outside.
Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If you want to prevent the bottoms from getting too crispy, you can also place them in a muffin tin. Make sure to space them out evenly so that the heat can circulate around each cupcake.
If the cupcakes have been stored in the refrigerator, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before reheating. This will help them reheat more evenly and prevent them from becoming too dense or dry.
Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the cupcakes inside and bake for 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to make sure they don't overcook or burn. The goal is to warm them up and restore their soft, fluffy texture, not to cook them further.
If you want to add a little extra moisture to the cupcakes, you can brush them lightly with some simple syrup or milk before reheating. This will help keep them moist and prevent them from drying out in the oven.
Another option for reheating Rudolph's red velvet cupcakes is to use the microwave. Place a cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the cupcake, as this can cause it to become rubbery or tough.
If you want to restore the glossy shine of the chocolate glaze on top of the cupcakes, you can use a kitchen torch to lightly toast the surface. This will melt the glaze slightly and give it a beautiful, glossy finish. Just be sure to keep the torch moving and avoid holding it in one spot for too long, as this can burn the cupcake.

Interesting Fact About Red Velvet Cupcakes

The red velvet cupcake is a popular dessert that originated during the Victorian era. Its signature red color was originally derived from beets, which were used as a natural food coloring. Nowadays, red food coloring is typically used to achieve the vibrant red hue. This cupcake recipe is a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season with a delicious treat.

Is Making Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe at Home Cost-Effective?

This red velvet cupcake recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens and are reasonably priced. The Duncan Hines cake mix and Chobani Greek yogurt are versatile and can be used in various recipes. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15. The cupcakes are visually appealing and can be a hit at parties. Overall Verdict: 8/10

Is Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcakes, while festive and fun, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients include a boxed cake mix, which often contains processed flour, sugar, and artificial colors and flavors. The frosting and decorations are also high in sugar and lack nutritional value.

However, there are a few positive aspects to this recipe:

It uses Greek yogurt instead of oil or butter, which adds protein and reduces fat content
Egg whites are used instead of whole eggs, lowering the cholesterol and fat content slightly
The portion size is controlled by making cupcakes instead of a large cake

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the boxed cake mix with a homemade red velvet cake recipe using whole wheat pastry flour, natural cocoa powder, and less sugar
Use a natural food coloring, such as beet juice, to achieve the red color instead of artificial dyes
Reduce the amount of sugar in the chocolate and vanilla glazes, or use a sugar substitute
Top the cupcakes with fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added nutrients and texture
Use dark chocolate M&M's or cacao nibs for a healthier chocolate option with less sugar and more antioxidants

By making these adjustments, you can create a more wholesome version of this holiday treat that still captures the spirit of the season. Remember, moderation is key, and it's okay to indulge in a festive dessert occasionally as part of a balanced diet.

Editor's Opinion on Rudolph's Delightful Red Velvet Cupcakes

This Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcake recipe is a delightful and whimsical treat, perfect for the holiday season. The combination of red velvet cake mix and Greek yogurt creates a moist and flavorful cupcake base. The chocolate and vanilla glazes add a delightful contrast of flavors, while the vanilla wafers, M&M's, and pretzels bring the cupcakes to life with a touch of festive charm. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, making this recipe a fun and enjoyable project for bakers of all skill levels. Overall, these cupcakes are not only delicious but also a delightful addition to any holiday gathering.

Enhance Your Rudolph the Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Whipped garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of rosemary and parmesan cheese

Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus spears drizzled with a balsamic glaze and sprinkled with toasted almonds

Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing and a sprinkle of fresh mint leaves

Similar Recipes to Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcakes

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is packed with tender chunks of beef, carrots, and potatoes in a rich and flavorful broth. It's the perfect comforting meal for a chilly evening.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: Marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices and herbs, this grilled chicken is bursting with flavor and perfect for a summer barbecue. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: These refreshing popsicles are made with creamy coconut milk and sweet mango puree. They're a delicious and healthy treat for a hot day, and they're easy to make at home with just a few simple ingredients.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Rudolph's Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these delectable bite-sized treats filled with a savory mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and satisfying filling, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These golden-brown fritters are a delightful way to start any meal. The crispy exterior gives way to a tender and flavorful interior, with just the right amount of seasoning to tantalize your taste buds. Serve them with a creamy dipping sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

Main Courses:

Savory Beef Stew: Create a hearty and flavorful stew using tender beef, a variety of vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and decadent chicken alfredo pasta dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings. The tender chicken and al dente pasta are coated in a luscious, homemade alfredo sauce for a truly comforting and satisfying meal.

Want to show off your own creative Rudolph the Red Velvet Cupcake designs or discuss baking tips? Head over to the Baking and Desserts section and share your thoughts!

FAQ:

How can I make these cupcakes without using a cake mix?

You can make the red velvet cupcakes from scratch by combining flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. There are many homemade red velvet cupcake recipes available online that you can use as a guide.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt in the cupcake batter?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. Just make sure it's plain and not flavored, as flavored yogurt may alter the taste of the cupcakes.

Can I prepare the cupcakes in advance and frost them later?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes in advance and store them in an airtight container. Wait to frost them until you are ready to serve to maintain the freshness of the frosting.

Can I use a different type of glaze for the cupcakes?

Absolutely! You can customize the glaze to your preference. For example, you can use a cream cheese glaze for a tangy twist, or a simple buttercream frosting for a classic touch.

How should I store the cupcakes if I have leftovers?

Store the leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.