Keto Red Velvet Cupcakes

Featured in: Sweet Treats for Every Occasion

These keto red velvet cupcakes feature tender, almond flour-based cakes with classic cocoa flavor and a naturally vibrant hue. A touch of powdered sweetener keeps them low-carb, while optional flax eggs offer flexibility for different dietary needs. Enjoy them as mini or regular-sized cupcakes, topped with your favorite cream cheese frosting or dairy-free alternative. Let them cool fully for best texture and deeper flavor—ideal for gatherings or elegant treats on a keto-friendly plan.

Tags: #halal #vegetarian #gluten-free #baked #family-friendly #budget-friendly #north-american #keto #easy #under-30-minutes #dessert

A woman is sitting at a table with a plate of food in front of her. The plate contains a dessert with berries on top.
Updated on Mon, 23 Feb 2026 23:23:55 GMT
A close up of a red velvet cupcake with white frosting and red sprinkles. Pin it
A close up of a red velvet cupcake with white frosting and red sprinkles. | recipebyme.com

Keto Red Velvet Cupcakes have become my favorite guilt-free answer to cake cravings These cupcakes are beautifully moist fluffy and rich with cocoa flavor but perfectly low in carbs thanks to almond flour and smart swaps like keto sweeteners

The first time my niece tried these she declared them her new birthday treat and I found myself making double batches to keep up with requests

Ingredients

  • Cocoa powder: gives the signature red velvet flavor choose a high-quality unsweetened variety for the best taste
  • Fine almond flour: makes the texture light and tender check for super fine grind with no lumps for even results
  • Baking powder: ensures the rise and fluffiness look for aluminum free baking powder for pure taste
  • Salt: subtly balances the sweetness opt for fine sea salt for best blending
  • Powdered sweetener: creates classic cupcake sweetness without carbs choose an erythritol blend or monk fruit for smoothness
  • Water: keeps the batter moist and easy to mix filtered water gives the best consistent crumb
  • Large eggs or flax eggs: hold everything together eggs make a fluffier cupcake but flax eggs give a vegan option
  • Natural red food coloring: delivers the festive color avoid artificial dyes and choose plant based beet or berry varieties if possible

Instructions

Prep the Pan:
Make sure each muffin cup is well greased with butter or coconut oil so your cupcakes pop out easily I use a paper towel to get into all the corners Mini or regular tins will both work
Mix Dry Ingredients:
Combine cocoa powder almond flour baking powder salt and powdered sweetener in a large mixing bowl Stir the mix with a fork until evenly blended breaking up any flour lumps
Add Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl whisk together eggs or flax eggs water and natural red food coloring Pour over the dry mix and stir strongly until no dry pockets remain The batter should be thick but not dry
Fill Muffin Tin:
Using a small scoop or spoon fill each muffin cup about two thirds full This keeps the cupcakes fluffy and prevents overflow during baking
Bake:
Put the tin in the center of your preheated 350 degree oven Bake ten minutes for mini cupcakes or fifteen minutes for standard size The tops should spring back gently when pressed
Cool Completely:
Let cupcakes rest in the tin for five minutes then remove to a cooling rack Make sure they are room temperature before frosting so the icing stays smooth This step helps set the texture for the perfect bite
Frost and Serve:
Once fully cool top with your favorite keto friendly frosting Cream cheese frosting adds a classic tang If you wish swirl on with a knife for pretty peaks or go plain to let the red color shine If you are patient I find these even tastier on day two
A plate of red velvet cupcakes with white frosting.
A plate of red velvet cupcakes with white frosting. | recipebyme.com

I truly love how the almond flour makes each bite melt in your mouth It reminds me of the treats my grandmother used to make but now fits my low carb lifestyle perfectly My favorite part is seeing everyone’s surprise when they find out these are keto

Storage Tips

Once frosted store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days If keeping unfrosted wrap in plastic and keep at room temperature for two days or freeze for up to three months To thaw leave on the counter for thirty minutes before eating

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have natural red food coloring try beet juice powder or skip for chocolate cupcakes instead For dairy free cupcakes stick to flax eggs and choose coconut oil to grease your tin Most powdered stevia blends will dissolve smoothly if you do not have your usual sweetener

Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes are stunning for birthdays and holiday parties Pipe a swirl of creamy frosting and sprinkle with a little cocoa powder for a classic look Pair with hot coffee or almond milk for a lovely afternoon treat Serve alongside fresh mixed berries for a striking dessert plate

Cultural Background

Red velvet cake has Southern roots known for its striking crimson color and cocoa flavor Early recipes used natural cocoa and beet juice to achieve color Nowadays this heritage dessert adapts beautifully to modern keto diets honoring traditional taste with wholesome new ingredients

Seasonal Adaptations

Top with coconut flakes or mint leaves in spring for a fresh update Mix in orange zest in winter for a citrus twist Use spooky frosting faces in fall for a festive Halloween treat

Success Stories

I once brought a platter of these to a potluck without mentioning they were keto The tray was empty before dinner and three people asked for the recipe They do not disappoint even for those who usually skip gluten free treats

Freezer Meal Conversion

Bake cupcakes and cool completely Store unfrosted in a freezer safe bag pressing out air Add a sheet of parchment between layers for easy removal Defrost as needed and frost just before serving for best flavor and texture

A close up of a red velvet cupcake with white frosting and red sprinkles.
A close up of a red velvet cupcake with white frosting and red sprinkles. | recipebyme.com

When I need a fast beautiful dessert with none of the sugar crash these cupcakes never fail me Each bite brings a little pop of celebration right into an ordinary day

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?

Coconut flour absorbs more liquid than almond flour and may change the texture considerably. For best results, use fine almond flour as listed.

→ What sweeteners work best in this dessert?

Powdered erythritol, monk fruit blends, or allulose create a smooth texture and maintain sweetness without added sugars.

→ How do I achieve the deep red color naturally?

Natural red food coloring helps provide color. Some prefer beet powder for a plant-based alternative, but it may affect flavor.

→ Is there a dairy-free frosting option?

Yes, use whipped coconut cream or dairy-free cream cheese alternatives for a smooth and luscious finish.

→ Can these cupcakes be made ahead?

Absolutely! The flavor deepens after a day. Store in an airtight container and frost just before serving for best results.

→ Are flax eggs suitable for this dessert?

Flax eggs work well as a plant-based substitution, maintaining moisture and structure in the cupcakes.

Keto Red Velvet Cupcakes

Tender almond flour and cocoa cupcakes with rich color and creamy frosting, perfect for keto-friendly treats.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
15 min
Total Time
25 min
By: Sana

Category: Desserts & Sweets

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings (8 cupcakes)

Dietary Categories: Low-Carb, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Batter

01 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
02 1 cup finely ground almond flour
03 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
04 1/4 teaspoon salt
05 1/3 cup powdered sweetener, such as erythritol
06 1/4 cup water
07 2 large eggs or 2 flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water)
08 1 teaspoon natural red food coloring

Steps

Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a standard or mini muffin tin.

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, whisk together almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and powdered sweetener until well combined.

Step 03

Add water, eggs (or flax eggs), and red food coloring to the dry mixture. Whisk until a smooth, even batter forms.

Step 04

Spoon batter into prepared muffin tin, filling each cavity approximately two-thirds full.

Step 05

Bake for 10 minutes if using a mini muffin tin or 15 minutes for regular size. Test for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 06

Allow cupcakes to cool completely in the tin, as they firm up while cooling.

Step 07

Gently run a knife around the edges and lift each cupcake from the tin.

Step 08

Frost only when cupcakes are fully cooled to prevent melting of icing. Serve or store for enhanced flavor the next day.

Notes

  1. Allow the cupcakes to cool thoroughly before applying frosting to maintain icing texture.
  2. For a lighter crumb, use a mini muffin tin. Double the recipe for larger gatherings.

Required Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Standard or mini muffin tin
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife or small offset spatula

Allergen Information

Check each ingredient for potential allergens and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Contains tree nuts (almond flour) and eggs; use flax eggs for an egg-free alternative.

Nutritional Info (per serving)

This data is provided as a guide and doesn't replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 98
  • Fats: 7.9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2.8 g
  • Proteins: 3.5 g