Nothing captures attention at a party quite like the deep, vibrant red of a Red Velvet Cake. Known for its moist, tender layers and subtle cocoa flavor, this classic dessert is a showstopper for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply indulging your sweet tooth, learning how to bake the perfect Red Velvet Cake will quickly make you everyone’s favorite baker.
This recipe brings together the right balance of richness and lightness while topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting—because, let's face it, no Red Velvet Cake is complete without it. Here's how to make this all-time favorite dessert from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2½ cups (310 g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1½ cups (360 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder in a large mixing bowl. This step ensures your cake has a light, even texture.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
- Whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until fully combined.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir just until the batter comes together—avoid overmixing as it can make your cake dense.
Step 5: Bake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together in a mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Finish by mixing in the vanilla extract.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
- Place the first layer of cake on a serving plate and spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides evenly. For a stunning finish, use a spatula to smooth out the frosting.
Step 8: Garnish (Optional)
- Decorate your cake with chocolate shavings, crushed pecans, or red velvet cake crumbs for added flair.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Slice your Red Velvet Cake, serve, and watch your guests fall in love with its creamy and decadent goodness.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese for a silky batter and frosting.
- Don’t Skip the Vinegar: The vinegar reacts with the cocoa powder and buttermilk, giving the cake its velvety texture and signature flavor.
- Use Gel Food Coloring: For a richer red hue, opt for gel food coloring instead of liquid.
Storing Your Red Velvet Cake
If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving to enjoy the frosting's full creaminess.
Final Thoughts
Red Velvet Cake is more than just a pretty dessert. Its delicate texture, subtle chocolate flavor, and tangy cream cheese frosting make it a treat that satisfies every sweet tooth. Whether it’s your first time baking a Red Velvet Cake or your 50th, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver perfection every time.
Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress!
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