Red Velvet Boxed Mini Cupcakes with Beets

Red Velvet Boxed Mini Cupcakes with Beets

Total Time
30 minutes
Prep Time
~24 mini cupcakes
Red velvet cupcakes just got a colorful and creative upgrade! These Red Velvet Boxed Mini Cupcakes with Beets take a simple store-bought cake mix and transform it into a fun, flavorful treat with a hidden boost of Beet Spreggies. The beets enhance the signature red hue without changing the classic taste, while a clever mayonnaise swap keeps the cupcakes irresistibly moist. Topped with smooth whipped cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of Strawberry Spruits for an extra pop of color, these bite-sized delights are perfect for parties, celebrations, or whenever you’re craving something special.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 package red velvet cake mix, any ~16 oz. box
  • 1 container whipped cream cheese, 12 oz
  • 1 tablespoon Beet Spreggies

Follow other ingredients on package -- usually requires, vegetable oil, water, and eggs. Keep in mind we're making half the package.

For this recipe, half the package required:

  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 egg
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise - the recipe calls for 3 eggs for a full package but we'll substitute mayonnaise for 1 egg.

Bake Mode is Off

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) or as instructed on the cake mix package.

  2. Portion the Ingredients:

    Since we're using half of the red velvet cake mix, weigh the full package and remove half by weight. Adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly—1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 1 egg. Since the original recipe calls for 3 eggs, we’re substituting one egg with 1 1/2 tablespoons of mayonnaise to maintain moisture.

  3. Mix the Batter:

    In a large mixing bowl, combine half the cake mix, 1 tablespoon Beet Spreggies, water, vegetable oil, egg, and mayonnaise. Blend on low speed for 1 minute, then increase to medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and well-mixed.

  4. Fill the Cupcake Liners:

    Line a mini cupcake pan with cupcake liners. Fill each liner about 3/4 full with batter to allow for even rising.

  5. Bake the Cupcakes:

    Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Since mini cupcakes bake faster than standard cupcakes, keep an eye on them and adjust the baking time if needed.

  6. Cool Completely:

    Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool completely before frosting. This step is crucial to prevent the whipped cream cheese frosting from melting.

  7. Frost the Cupcakes:

    Transfer the whipped cream cheese frosting to a piping bag for easy decorating. To create a perfect round dollop, hold the piping bag over the cupcake and gently squeeze until the frosting spreads evenly—no need to move the bag up and down.

  8. Add a Decorative Touch (Optional):

    If you want a red accent, sprinkle Strawberry Spruits on top as a natural substitute for traditional sprinkles.

  9. Serve and Enjoy!

    These mini cupcakes are ready to be served and enjoyed. Store leftovers in an airtight container for freshness.