How did red velvet cupcakes get their name?

The name "red velvet" is thought to have originated from the use of red food coloring to give the cake its distinctive color. The cake is typically made with a combination of cocoa powder, buttermilk, and vinegar, which reacts with the cocoa to create a red color. The addition of red food coloring enhances the red color and gives the cake its signature appearance.

Another possible explanation for the name "red velvet" is that the cake was originally made with a high-quality, finely-ground flour known as "velvet flour". This type of flour was commonly used in the 19th century and gave the cake a smooth and velvety texture. Over time, the term "red velvet" became synonymous with the cake itself, regardless of the type of flour used.