Red Velvet Cake is a visually striking dessert with a tender crumb and subtle cocoa flavor. Its vibrant red color contrasts beautifully with cream cheese frosting, making it a favorite for special occasions like birthdays, Valentine’s Day, and holidays. The cake is moist and soft, with a slight tang from buttermilk that balances the sweetness.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2½ cups (320g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1½ cups (360ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper. - Mix dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. - Combine wet ingredients
In a large bowl, mix oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth. - Blend wet and dry
Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth. Be careful not to overmix. - Bake the cake
Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks. - Prepare frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy. - Frost and assemble
Once cakes are completely cool, layer them with frosting and cover the top and sides.
Tips for the Best Red Velvet Cake
- Use room-temperature ingredients for smooth batter.
- Vinegar and buttermilk react with baking soda to make the cake tender.
- Avoid overbaking to keep the cake moist.
Uses for Red Velvet Cake
Red Velvet Cake is perfect for festive occasions and pairs beautifully with cream cheese frosting. Slice for individual servings or present as a full cake for celebrations. Its striking color and smooth texture make it both delicious and visually impressive.
