These red cakes are the perfect people-pleaser. Not only do they look good, but they taste fantastic too. And even better, they are quick and easy to bake.

They are the perfect companion for a cup of tea and a good book.

The red adds a nice pop of colour, making them different from other cakes and will surely tempt your guests.

Supplies

For the cake

150g plain flour
150g caster sugar
60g unsalted butter
10g cocoa powder
1 egg
20ml of red food colouring
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
120ml buttermilk
1/2 teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda
1 1/2 teaspoons of white wine vinegar

For the icing

300g icing sugar sifted
50g unsalted butter
125g cream cheese

Step 1: Cake Mix

Preheat the oven to 170°C

Using an electric mixer with a paddle attachment place the butter and sugar and beat till light and fluffy. Turn the mixer to a high speed and slowly add the egg and beat till it is all mixed together.

In a separate bowl, mix the red food colouring, vanilla extract and the cocoa powder to make a paste. Add this to the bowl and beat till it is mixed in and the colour is spread evenly. Now, turn the mixer down and add half the buttermilk. Mix well, then add the flour. Alternate between these until it is all used. Mix till it is all together

Now, turn the mixer down to a low speed and add the bicarbonate of soda and vinegar. Beat for a few minutes till everything is well mixed and even.

Step 2: Baking

Spoon the mixture into the paper cases until each one is 2/3rds full.

Then put in a cake tray and bake in the pre-heated oven for 20 - 25 minutes.

To test if the cakes are cooked, put a skewer in one of the cakes. If it comes out clean, they are ready. You can leave the cupcakes out to cool before adding the cream cheese topping.