Red Velvet Cake Recipe

There’s something undeniably enchanting about a Red Velvet Cake. The vibrant red color paired with its rich, velvety texture and luscious cream cheese frosting makes it a showstopper at any celebration. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, an anniversary, or just because it’s Tuesday, this Red Velvet Cake recipe will not disappoint. With its perfect balance of sweetness and subtle cocoa flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Why This Red Velvet Cake Recipe Stands Out

This Red Velvet Cake stands out not just for its stunning appearance, but also for its incredible taste. The use of Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives it a deeper flavor, while the buttermilk keeps the cake moist and tender. The addition of vinegar enhances the cake’s lightness, and the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that complements the cake beautifully. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet sophisticated enough to impress seasoned bakers.

The Essentials

• 2 cups all-purpose flour – the foundation of our cake.
• ½ cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder – for that rich chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – to sweeten the cake perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – for leavening.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – to help the cake rise.
• ½ teaspoon salt – to enhance the flavor.
• 1 cup room-temperature buttermilk – for moisture and tang.
• 1 cup vegetable oil – for a tender crumb.
• 2 large room-temperature eggs – for structure.
• 1 teaspoon vinegar – to react with the baking soda and create fluffiness.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – for flavor.
• 2 tablespoons liquid red food color – for that iconic hue.
• 2 (8-ounce) blocks room-temperature cream cheese – for the frosting.
• 8 ounces room-temperature unsalted butter – for a rich frosting.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – for the frosting.
• 1 cup powdered sugar – to sweeten the frosting.

Before You Start: Equipment

• 2 round cake pans (9-inch) – for baking the layers.
• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer – for easy mixing.
• Spatula – for folding ingredients and frosting the cake.
• Cooling rack – to cool the cakes completely before frosting.

Build Red Velvet Cake Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vinegar, vanilla extract, and liquid red food color. Whisk until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake as desired.

Step 8: Decorate and Serve

Feel free to decorate with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries. Slice, serve, and enjoy this beautiful, delectable Red Velvet Cake!

If You’re Out Of…

• Buttermilk: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
• Vegetable oil: Canola oil or melted coconut oil works well as a substitute.
• Cream cheese: Mascarpone cheese can be used for a different flavor and texture.
• Red food color: Beet juice can be a natural alternative, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

If You’re Curious

The origin of Red Velvet Cake is a bit murky, but it is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. Its distinctive color is often associated with Valentine’s Day and other romantic occasions, making it a popular choice for celebrations of love. The cake’s unique flavor profile, combining hints of cocoa with a buttery richness, is what keeps people coming back for more!

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To store your Red Velvet Cake, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you’ve made the cake ahead of time, you can freeze the layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Troubleshooting Q&A

What should I do if my cake is too dense?

If your cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing or using too much flour. Be careful to measure your flour accurately and mix just until combined.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to properly grease and flour your cake pans. You can also use parchment paper on the bottom of the pans for extra assurance.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to frost and serve.

What can I do if my cream cheese frosting is too runny?

If your frosting is too runny, you can add more powdered sugar a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Keep Cooking

• Chocolate Cake Recipe
• Carrot Cake
• Vegan Chocolate Cake

Save & Share

If you love this Red Velvet Cake recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with friends and family! Tag us on social media with your beautiful cake creations!

Creating this Red Velvet Cake is not just about the ingredients; it’s about the joy of baking and the happiness it brings to those around you. With this recipe in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to impressing your loved ones with a delicious treat that looks as good as it tastes. Happy baking!