Because this frosting contains milk and cream cheese, it must be refrigerated. If refrigeration isn’t possible, use one can of premade cream cheese frosting. Just stir in three drops of red food coloring until well blended.
To soften cream cheese and butter, leave them on your kitchen counter for about an hour. They’re soft enough for mixing when they yield easily to touch.
Cupcakes can be made up to two days ahead and stored in Ziploc® Brand containers.
Frosting can be made up to two days ahead and stored, covered, in the refrigerator.