Name: Classic Red Velvet Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-489147H53M45S
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp cocoa powder; 1 ½ cups (360ml) vegetable oil; 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel); 1 tsp white vinegar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened; ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that brings together rich flavor, velvety texture, and an unmistakable red hue, look no further than the Classic Red Velvet Cake. This beloved cake strikes the perfect balance between a subtle cocoa undertone and a moist crumb, all topped with the irresistibly creamy tang of cream cheese frosting. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a reason to treat yourself, the Classic Red Velvet Cake delivers warmth, nostalgia, and pure deliciousness with every bite.

Classic Red Velvet Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward baking the perfect Classic Red Velvet Cake. These simple staples each play an essential role—from creating that tender crumb and signature red color to achieving the luscious frosting that makes this cake unforgettable.

All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups / 310g): The foundation that gives the cake structure while keeping it light and tender.
Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups / 300g): Sweetens the cake and aids in moisture retention.
Baking soda (1 tsp): Acts as a leavening agent to give the cake a gentle rise.
Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Cocoa powder (1 tsp): Provides a subtle chocolate essence without overpowering the classic red velvet taste.
Vegetable oil (1 ½ cups / 360ml): Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.
Buttermilk (1 cup / 240ml, room temperature): Adds a slight tang and reacts with baking soda for the perfect rise.
Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind ingredients and contribute to a smooth, rich texture.
Red food coloring (2 tbsp, liquid or gel): Creates that iconic vibrant hue that makes the cake unmistakable.
White vinegar (1 tsp): Enhances the red color and balances the cake’s flavor.
Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds depth and warmth to the overall taste.
Cream cheese (16 oz / 450g, softened): For the frosting—adds tang and luscious creaminess.
Unsalted butter (½ cup / 115g, softened): Makes the frosting rich and smooth.
Powdered sugar (4 cups / 480g): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp) for frosting: Elevates the cream cheese frosting flavor beautifully.

How to Make Classic Red Velvet Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans thoroughly or line them with parchment paper circles for easier release later. This prep step ensures your layers bake evenly and come out cleanly—a key to a professional-looking cake.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Sifting helps to aerate these ingredients and eliminates lumps so that your cake batter will be silky smooth and consistent.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, white vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined. The buttermilk’s tangy richness combined with the vinegar helps create that balanced red velvet flavor we all love.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in two or three batches, mixing gently each time until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so it’s important to handle the batter with care to keep it tender and light.

Step 5: Bake the Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon fill with the inviting scent of freshly baked cake—a delightful moment worth savoring.

Step 6: Cool Completely

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool fully. This step ensures the layers firm up enough to handle and prevents your frosting from melting when applied.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, blending continuously for a silky texture. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract for that subtle, sweet aroma that complements the cake perfectly.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining layers. Once stacked, frost the outside smoothly for a clean finish or create rustic swirls with a spatula for charm and character—both look beautiful and taste amazing!

How to Serve Classic Red Velvet Cake

Garnishes

Adding garnishes can elevate the cake’s beauty and flavor. Try topping your Classic Red Velvet Cake with white chocolate shavings for elegance or sprinkle crushed cake crumbs for texture. Fresh berries add a burst of color and freshness that contrast the creamy frosting wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with simple sides that don’t compete with its bold flavor. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a fragrant tea forms a perfect companion, while a cold glass of milk offers classic comfort. These pairings bring out the cake’s full flavor profile and make for a memorable dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, get creative with themed decorations such as edible glitter, sprinkles, or piped frosting designs. Serving the cake as individual mini layers or cupcakes is another fun way to share this Classic Red Velvet Cake at gatherings. Presentation really makes the moment magical!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store slices or the whole cake covered tightly in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting keeps best when chilled, and this method maintains freshness for up to 4-5 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake layers unfrosted by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw layers overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and assembling to preserve flavor and texture.

Reheating

Classic Red Velvet Cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not recommended. If necessary, let slices sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving to soften the frosting slightly.

FAQs

What makes red velvet cake different from chocolate cake?

Red velvet cake has a subtle cocoa flavor combined with vinegar and buttermilk that create a tangy, moist texture. Its vibrant red color and cream cheese frosting set it apart from richer, deeper-flavored chocolate cakes.

Can I use cocoa powder without Dutch processing?

Yes, but natural unsweetened cocoa powder is preferred for Classic Red Velvet Cake, as it reacts with baking soda and vinegar to create the cake’s signature texture and flavor.

Why is food coloring necessary in red velvet cake?

The red food coloring is key for that iconic hue. While the original recipe used natural ingredients for color, modern versions rely on food coloring for a vibrant, eye-catching cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Just be mindful baking times might vary slightly.

How long will the Classic Red Velvet Cake last?

When refrigerated properly, this cake stays fresh for up to 5 days. Beyond that, freezing the layers unassembled helps maintain quality for longer periods.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Classic Red Velvet Cake—the way its bold color draws you in, the gentle cocoa notes surprise your taste buds, and the creamy frosting pulls everything together. It’s a recipe that brings joy not only in its taste but in the memories it helps create. So grab your mixing bowls and give this cake a try; it might just become your new favorite tradition!

Classic Red Velvet Cake Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 15 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Classic Red Velvet Cake features a moist, tender crumb with a subtle cocoa flavor and stunning red hue, layered with rich and creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or any time you want a vibrant, delicious cake that’s both visually striking and irresistibly flavorful.

Instructions

Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper circles to prevent sticking.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder to ensure an even distribution and remove any lumps.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, white vinegar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniformly combined.
Make the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in two or three batches. Gently fold and mix until just combined to keep the cake tender and avoid overmixing.
Bake the Layers: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks and cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and crumbs.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy. Slowly add powdered sugar, beating continuously, then mix in vanilla extract until creamy and spreadable.
Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on your serving plate, spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Repeat with remaining layers. Finish by frosting the outside and smoothing it for a clean, professional look or create rustic swirls as desired.

Notes

Use gel food coloring for a vibrant red color without thinning the batter.
Accurately measure flour to avoid a dense cake texture.
Chill cake layers before frosting to reduce the risk of crumbs in your frosting.
Applying a crumb coat before the final frosting layer gives a sleek, professional finish.
Garnish with white chocolate shavings, cake crumbs, or fresh berries for added elegance.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American