Description
This classic Red Velvet Cake recipe features moist, tender layers with a rich cocoa flavor tinted a vibrant red. Paired with smooth, creamy homemade cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for celebrations or any occasion where indulgence is desired. The texture is soft yet sturdy enough to hold the luscious frosting, delivering a perfect balance of flavor and elegance.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tbsp red food coloring
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp white vinegar
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Make the Cake: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until the mixture is smooth and uniform in color.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender crumb.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between two greased or lined cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt for balance.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the entire cake evenly with the remaining frosting. For a decorative touch, garnish with cake crumbs or red sprinkles if desired.
Notes
- Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk, are at room temperature for best results.
- Do not overmix the batter, as this can make the cake dense instead of tender.
- Let the cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Red food coloring quantity can be adjusted for desired intensity of color.
- Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, properly covered.
