Whip up a guilt-free dessert with this skinny red velvet cupcakes recipe. Designed to satisfy those sweet tooth cravings, these cupcakes offer the classic red velvet taste you love, without the heavy calorie count. Using healthier alternatives like white whole wheat flour and applesauce, this recipe is perfect for conscious eaters.
While most ingredients in this recipe are likely to be found in your pantry, there are a few you might need to pick up from the supermarket. Cake flour and white whole wheat flour are used for a lighter, fluffier texture. Dutch-process cocoa gives the cupcakes a deep, rich flavor. Philadelphia cream cheese is preferred for the low fat frosting, but any low fat cream cheese will do. Be sure to grab some red food coloring to achieve that classic red velvet look.
Ingredients for Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
Cake flour: Provides a light, airy texture to our cupcakes.
White whole wheat flour: A healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, enhancing the nutritional value of the cupcakes.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to our cupcakes.
Dutch-process cocoa: Gives our cupcakes a rich, chocolatey flavor.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the recipe.
Baking powder: Helps our cupcakes rise during baking.
Baking soda: Reacts with vinegar to lighten the texture of the cupcakes.
White vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to help the cupcakes rise.
Apple sauce: A healthier alternative to oil or butter, adds moisture to our cupcakes.
Butter: Contributes richness and flavor to the batter.
Egg and egg whites: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
Vanilla: Enhances the flavor of our cupcakes.
Buttermilk: Adds a tangy flavor and tenderizes the gluten in the flour for a softer texture.
Red food coloring: Gives our cupcakes their classic red color.
Philadelphia cream cheese: Used to make a delicious low-fat frosting.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens our frosting.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor to the frosting.
One reader, Damita Mcdaniel says:
These skinny red velvet cupcakes are a game-changer! They're moist, flavorful, and guilt-free. The low-fat cream cheese frosting is the perfect finishing touch. I love that I can indulge in a delicious treat without feeling guilty. This recipe is a keeper!
Techniques Required for Making Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
How to prepare the cupcake batter: Combine the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl and the wet ingredients in another bowl, then gradually mix them together until well combined.
How to line cupcake tins with liners: Place cupcake liners in the cavities of the cupcake tins, ensuring they are evenly spaced and secure.
How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake, and if it comes out clean, the cupcakes are done.
How to frost the cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are cooled, use a piping bag or spatula to evenly spread the low-fat cream cheese frosting on top of each cupcake.
How To Make Low Fat Red Velvet Cupcakes
Who doesn’t love red velvet cupcakes? In this recipe, low-fat cream cheese is used for the frosting for a dessert that’s full in flavor at half the guilt.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1½cupscake flour
- 1cupwhite whole wheat flour,or gluten free flour
- 1cupsugar
- 1tbspdutch-process cocoa,unsweetened
- 1tspsalt
- 1tspbaking powder
- 1tspBaking Soda
- 1tspwhite vinegar
- ½cupapple sauce,unsweetened
- ¼cupbutter,softened
- 1egg
- 2egg whites
- 2tspvanilla
- 1⅓cupbuttermilk,light
- 1tbspred food coloring
For Low Fat Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8ozPhiladelphia Cream Cheese,⅓ fat
- 1cuppowdered sugar
- 1tspvanilla extract
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
-
Line cupcake tins with liners.
-
In a large mixing bowl, stir together flours, salt, cocoa, and baking powder.
-
In another large bowl beat sugar, applesauce and butter.
-
Beat in eggs and vanilla.
-
In a separate bowl mix baking soda and vinegar.
-
Add half of the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, mix well.
-
Add buttermilk, red food coloring and mix well.
-
Add the remaining dry ingredients and fold in vinegar and baking soda.
-
Pour in prepared cupcake liners ¾ of the way.
-
Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
-
Cool, then frost with low fat cream cheese frosting.
Low Fat Cream Cheese Frosting:
-
Beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
Nutrition
- Calories: 149.92kcal
- Fat: 5.25g
- Saturated Fat: 2.97g
- Trans Fat: 0.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.33g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.31g
- Carbohydrates: 23.52g
- Fiber: 0.76g
- Sugar: 13.64g
- Protein: 2.69g
- Cholesterol: 20.94mg
- Sodium: 136.00mg
- Calcium: 41.08mg
- Potassium: 69.79mg
- Iron: 0.88mg
- Vitamin A: 51.31µg
- Vitamin C: 1.12mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
When making these skinny red velvet cupcakes, it's important to not overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cupcake. Instead, gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined for a light, fluffy texture. Also, when adding the red food coloring, start with a smaller amount and gradually add more until you reach your desired color. Too much food coloring can give the cupcakes a bitter taste.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
Prep ahead: Prepare the dry ingredients the night before and store them in an airtight container. This will save time and make the baking process more efficient.
Use a stand mixer: Utilize a stand mixer to quickly and thoroughly mix the batter, saving time and effort compared to hand mixing.
Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather and organize all the necessary ingredients and tools to streamline the cooking process.
Multi-task: While the cupcakes are baking, use that time to prepare the low-fat cream cheese frosting to maximize efficiency.
Bake in batches: If you have multiple cupcake tins, bake in batches to save time and make the most of the oven space.
Substitute Ingredients For Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe
cake flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for cake flour. However, for every cup of cake flour, use 1 cup minus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
white whole wheat flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a substitute for white whole wheat flour. It will add a nuttier flavor and denser texture to the cupcakes.
dutch-process cocoa - Substitute with natural cocoa powder: Natural cocoa powder can be used as a substitute for Dutch-process cocoa. However, it may result in a slightly different flavor and texture.
butter - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a substitute for butter to reduce the fat content in the cupcakes. It also adds moisture and a hint of sweetness.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk and vinegar: To make a buttermilk substitute, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a lower-fat alternative to cream cheese in the frosting. It provides a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
Presentation Ideas for Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
Elevate the cupcake: Place the cupcake on a delicate porcelain plate to showcase its vibrant red color and fluffy texture.
Garnish with fresh berries: Adorn the plate with a selection of seasonal berries such as raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries to add a burst of color and a touch of natural sweetness.
Drizzle with raspberry coulis: Create an elegant design on the plate using a vibrant raspberry coulis to add a tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the red velvet cupcake.
Dust with edible gold flakes: For a touch of luxury, delicately dust the plate with shimmering edible gold flakes to add a touch of opulence to the presentation.
Accompany with a quenelle of low-fat cream cheese frosting: Artfully shape the low-fat cream cheese frosting into a quenelle and place it alongside the cupcake for a sophisticated and refined finish.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a fine sprinkle of powdered sugar to add a subtle sweetness and a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Add a sprig of mint: Place a small, vibrant mint sprig on the plate to provide a refreshing aroma and a pop of green color, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Essential Tools for Making Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
- Oven: Used for baking and roasting food items.
- Cupcake tins: Used to bake cupcakes and muffins.
- Mixing bowl: Used to mix ingredients together.
- Electric mixer: Used to beat and mix ingredients for the cupcake batter and frosting.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Used to measure ingredients accurately.
- Spatula: Used for mixing, spreading, and folding ingredients.
- Whisk: Used to beat and blend ingredients together.
- Cupcake liners: Used to line the cupcake tins and prevent sticking.
- Pastry bag and tip: Used to pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes.
- Cooling rack: Used to cool the cupcakes after baking.
Storing and Freezing Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing.
- To store, place the cooled cupcakes in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- If you've already frosted the cupcakes, store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
- To freeze unfrosted cupcakes:
- Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal.
- Place the wrapped cupcakes in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
- Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
- To thaw, remove the cupcakes from the freezer and let them defrost in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
- Freezing frosted cupcakes is not recommended, as the cream cheese frosting may not maintain its texture and appearance after thawing.
- If you must freeze frosted cupcakes, place them uncovered in the freezer for about an hour until the frosting hardens, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
- To thaw frosted cupcakes, remove them from the freezer and let them defrost in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
The best way to reheat leftover skinny red velvet cupcakes is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and the frosting is slightly melted. This method will help restore the cupcakes' texture and flavor, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked ones.
If you're short on time, you can also use the microwave to reheat your leftover cupcakes. Place the cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat the cupcake, as this can cause the frosting to melt and the cake to become rubbery. If the cupcake isn't warm enough after the first interval, heat it for an additional 5-10 seconds until it reaches your desired temperature.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcake directly on the rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cupcake is warmed through and the frosting is slightly melted. This method is perfect for reheating just one or two cupcakes at a time.
If you want to maintain the cupcake's moisture and prevent it from drying out, you can use the steaming method. Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the cupcake in a heat-proof bowl and set it over the pot, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. Cover the bowl with a lid or aluminum foil and steam for 2-3 minutes, or until the cupcake is heated through.
For a crispy top and moist interior, you can use the air fryer to reheat your leftover red velvet cupcakes. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cupcake in the basket. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cupcake is heated through and the frosting is slightly melted. This method is perfect for those who love a crispy texture on their cupcakes.
Interesting Fact About Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
The red velvet cupcake originated during the Great Depression, when bakers used beets to enhance the color of their cakes. This practice eventually evolved into the red velvet cake we know today.
Is Making Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this skinny red velvet cupcakes recipe is quite high. The use of white whole wheat flour and apple sauce as substitutes for traditional ingredients makes it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it an affordable treat. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be an 8. The use of healthier ingredients and the low-fat cream cheese frosting make it a guilt-free indulgence, perfect for those looking for a lighter dessert option without compromising on flavor.
Are Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for skinny red velvet cupcakes is a healthier twist on the classic dessert. By using whole wheat flour, applesauce, and reduced amounts of butter and sugar, the recipe cuts down on some of the less nutritious ingredients found in traditional red velvet cupcakes.
However, there are still some areas where the recipe could be improved:
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of sugar (1 cup), which could be reduced further or replaced with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- The use of food coloring is purely aesthetic and adds no nutritional value
- The cream cheese frosting, while lower in fat, still contains a considerable amount of sugar
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the all-purpose flour entirely with whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Reduce the sugar content by 1/4 to 1/2 cup, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- Omit the food coloring altogether, or use a natural alternative like beet juice for coloring
- For the frosting, use a combination of reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt to lower the fat and sugar content while maintaining a creamy texture
- Top the cupcakes with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of unsweetened cocoa powder for added flavor and nutrients without extra sugar
By incorporating these changes, you can create a delicious and more nutritious version of red velvet cupcakes that still satisfies your sweet tooth while providing some health benefits.
Editor's Opinion on This Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe
This red velvet cupcake recipe is a healthier take on the classic treat, using whole wheat flour and apple sauce to reduce the fat content. The addition of buttermilk and vinegar ensures a moist and tender crumb, while the low-fat cream cheese frosting provides a deliciously tangy contrast. The use of red food coloring adds a vibrant pop of color, making these cupcakes a delightful and guilt-free indulgence.
Enhance Your Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Recipes to Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes
Why trust this Skinny Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavor and nutrition. The use of white whole wheat flour and apple sauce reduces the calorie count without compromising on taste. The addition of buttermilk ensures a moist and tender crumb, while the cream cheese frosting is made with low fat cream cheese for a guilt-free indulgence. The careful incorporation of red food coloring creates the classic vibrant hue of red velvet cupcakes. With a focus on wholesome ingredients and mindful preparation, this recipe is a trustworthy choice for a healthier treat.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Spooky Delights Halloween Cupcakes Recipe
Dots Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe
Mrs. Clinton’s Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe
Buttermilk Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Sprinkles Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Copycat Recipe
Rudolph the Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe
Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe
Red Velvet Cupcakes Recipe
Easy Red Velvet Cheesecake Recipe
Red Velvet Choc-Cherry Cupcakes Recipe
Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Recipe
