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Slice of purple velvet cake topped with creamy frosting on a decorative plate.

Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

A stunning dessert with a rich flavor and velvety texture, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Baked Goods, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cocoa powder
  • 1.5 cups vegetable oil
  • 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 tbsp red food coloring
  • 1 tsp white distilled vinegar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp purple food coloring

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 pound cream cheese, softened
  • 2 sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, white vinegar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
  • Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until well combined.
  • Gently stir in the purple food coloring to adjust the cake's color.

Baking

  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them and cool completely on a wire rack.

Frosting and Assembly

  • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  • Add in the vanilla extract and slowly incorporate the sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  • Once the cakes are cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of the first layer.
  • Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
  • Decorate with sprinkles or edible flowers as desired.

Serving

  • Slice the cake, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

Always measure your ingredients carefully for best results. Let butter and eggs come to room temperature for a smoother batter.
Keyword Baking, Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert Recipe, Purple Velvet Cake, Velvet Cake