Description
This classic red velvet cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring a tender crumb infused with cocoa and a vibrant red hue. Paired with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for celebrations or anytime you crave a slice of indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 ounce red food coloring
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder until evenly combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red food coloring. Mix well to blend all liquids thoroughly.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes. Then, invert them onto wire racks and let them cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: While cakes cool, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble Cake: Once cakes are completely cooled, frost the top of one layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake evenly for a beautiful finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cake pans are properly greased and floured to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Do not overmix the batter, as it can result in a dense cake.
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
- Cooling the cakes completely before frosting helps the frosting to spread smoothly.
- Red food coloring is key to achieving the signature red velvet color.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: red velvet cake, cream cheese frosting, classic dessert, layered cake, celebration cake
