Preheat oven to 350ºF.

Prepare a cupcake tins with foil or paper muffin cups.

In a large bowl, combine all dry ingredients.

In a separate bowl, combine the oil, milk, eggs and vanilla essence.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients.

Using a whisk, stand mixer or electric hand beater, mix the dry ingredients until a smooth batter is formed.

Add the red food colouring and mix until the colour is evenly distributed.

Fill each cupcake line two thirds of the way with batter.

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the cupcake comes out clean.

Cool completely and top with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Beat the softened butter, vanilla and cream cheese together until fluffy.

Gradually add in the icing sugar and beat until smooth.