Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Looking for a rich, moist, and utterly delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion? This Red Velvet Cake recipe has you covered! Follow this easy step-by-step guide to create a stunning cake that tastes as good as it looks.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Sifting the flour ensures a smoother batter and fluffier cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Make sure the buttermilk and eggs are at room temperature to prevent curdling.

Step 4: Create the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Pro Tip: For an extra-silky frosting, chill it for 10–15 minutes before spreading it on the cake.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Place the second layer on top, then frost the top and sides evenly.

Decorating idea: Sprinkle cake crumbs on top or garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cake

1. Measure accurately! Baking is a science, so use proper measuring tools for both wet and dry ingredients.
2. Don’t skip the vinegar: It enhances the red color and reacts with the baking soda to create a fluffy texture.
3. Chill before slicing: Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Red Velvet Cake with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a classic treat. This cake also freezes beautifully, so you can save leftovers for up to three months!

Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to start baking! Enjoy your deliciously vibrant and velvety masterpiece!