Red Velvet Cake Recipe
Introduction
Red Velvet Cake is a classic and beautifully vibrant cake with a slight cocoa flavor and a hint of tanginess from buttermilk. Known for its soft, velvety texture and iconic red color, it’s topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that makes it both delicious and visually stunning. This cake is perfect for celebrations or any time you want to indulge in a truly decadent dessert.
Overview
This Red Velvet Cake is a two-layer cake with a moist crumb, flavored with cocoa and vanilla, and topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. It’s easy to prepare and takes about 60 minutes, making it a wonderful choice for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
In another large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the batter is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.
Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until smooth.
Stir in the vanilla extract until the frosting is well blended.
Assemble the Cake
Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting over the top.
Place the second cake layer on top and spread frosting over the entire cake, smoothing with a spatula.
For a decorative touch, add extra frosting swirls or crumbs on top of the cake.
Variations
Cupcake Version: Pour the batter into a cupcake tin and bake for 18-20 minutes, then frost individually with cream cheese frosting.
Chocolate Red Velvet: Add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
Layered Cream Cheese Filling: Add a layer of cream cheese filling between the cake layers for an extra creamy surprise.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Garnish the cake with red velvet crumbs or add chocolate shavings on top for a decorative finish.
Serve with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a pop of color and flavor.
Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the perfect dessert experience.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 450
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 350mg
Conclusion
This Red Velvet Cake is a timeless dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. With its soft, moist layers and creamy frosting, it’s sure to impress and delight your friends and family. Perfect for any celebration, this cake will be a hit and leave everyone wanting more. Enjoy making (and eating!) this classic Red Velvet Cake.
