Red Velvet Cake

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Equipment:
Mixing bowls
electric mixer
measuring cups
measuring spoons
9-inch round cake pans
cooling rack
Cuisine Type: American
Red Velvet Cake is a classic dessert that’s as beautiful as it’s delicious. With its striking red color and rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any day of the week. The combination of cocoa powder and buttermilk gives it a unique flavor that sets it apart from other cakes.
The velvety texture and vibrant hue make it a showstopper at any gathering. This recipe isn’t only about the looks; it also promises a delightful taste experience. The subtle chocolate flavor complements the tangy cream cheese frosting, creating a harmonious balance that’s simply irresistible.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just want to indulge yourself, this Red Velvet Cake will surely impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to guarantee the cakes come out easily after baking. This step is essential for a clean presentation.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined. This dry mixture provides the base for your cake and helps distribute the leavening agents evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until smooth and well blended, making certain that the color is evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.
- For the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top, then place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your Red Velvet Cake, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a subtle depth. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.