Preheat the oven at 375 degrees F.
Sift together the flour, baking soda, cocao powder and salt. Set aside for now. Cream together the butter and the sugar until fluffy and creamy. Add in eggs one at a time. Beating each thoroughly. Mix in the dry ingredients and the buttermilk. Alternating between each. Remember to add the flour before the buttermilk.
Once all the dry ingredients and buttermilk are added, add in the food coloring. Mix together, you should get a pink/red color. Now add in the lemon juice or vinegar. Finally add in the vanilla.
Pour into cupcake pan. Bake for about 25-30 minutes.
Decorate with Cream Cheese or Buttercream Icing.