Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake is a stunning and indulgent dessert that combines a rich, velvety texture with a subtle cocoa flavor and a vibrant red hue that makes it visually irresistible. Traditionally layered and topped with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake offers a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, making it a favorite for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions. Its striking color and decadent taste make it not just a dessert, but a centerpiece that impresses both in flavor and presentation.

What makes Red Velvet Cake truly special is its unique combination of flavors and textures. The tender, moist layers are soft yet structured enough to hold the luscious cream cheese frosting, while a hint of cocoa adds depth without overpowering the delicate sweetness. This cake is versatile, allowing for creative decorations, from simple powdered sugar dusting to elaborate frosting designs, making it suitable for any celebration.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Red Velvet Cake recipe because it perfectly balances a tender, moist crumb with a subtle cocoa flavor and a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Each bite feels indulgent yet elegant, offering a luxurious texture and a flavor profile that is both rich and delicate. I also love how visually striking this cake is—the deep red layers contrasted with the white frosting create a stunning dessert that feels special, making it perfect for celebrations or simply as a treat to enjoy at home.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

Red Velvet Cake is a must-try dish because it combines a visually stunning appearance with a decadent, flavorful experience. The deep red layers paired with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting make every slice both beautiful and irresistible. It’s a dessert that impresses effortlessly, whether for a birthday, holiday, or special gathering, and it appeals to a wide range of tastes, from chocolate lovers to those seeking a mildly sweet, rich treat.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes per layer
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including cooling and assembly)
Servings: 10-12 slices
Calories: Approximately 420 calories per serving
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ 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 Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Directions

The cake layers are made by combining dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and food coloring to create a smooth, velvety batter. Baked to a moist, tender crumb, the layers are cooled and stacked with cream cheese frosting, creating a visually stunning and delicious dessert.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, mix vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully incorporated. Do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For the frosting, beat butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and beat until well combined.
9. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides evenly.
10. Decorate with cake crumbs, sprinkles, or chocolate shavings if desired.

How to Serve

Serve Red Velvet Cake at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Slice using a serrated knife for clean layers. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea and can be accompanied by fresh berries for a colorful presentation.

Recipe Tips

• Use room temperature eggs and buttermilk for a smoother batter.
• Do not overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
• Cool the cake completely before frosting to prevent melting.
• Use gel food coloring for a vibrant red color without altering the batter’s consistency.

Variations

Red Velvet Cupcakes
Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake for 18-20 minutes for individual portions.

Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting
Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the cream cheese frosting for a chocolatey twist.

Vegan Red Velvet Cake
Use plant-based milk, flax eggs, and vegan butter substitutes to make a dairy-free version.

Red Velvet Layer Cake with Fresh Fruit
Add a layer of sliced strawberries or raspberries between the cake layers for added flavor and texture.

Freezing and Storage

Store frosted Red Velvet Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake layers can be frozen without frosting for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling rack
• Spatula for frosting

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cake is a classic, elegant dessert with a tender crumb and vibrant red color, complemented by rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a special treat at home, it is visually stunning, flavorful, and versatile. Whether baked as a layer cake or cupcakes, this recipe delivers a delicious, memorable dessert that everyone will love.