Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
A stunning combination of rich flavors and eye-catching color, this Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect centerpiece for any dessert table, ideal for celebrations or a sweet treat.
Ingredients
For the cake
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour, sifted Ensure lightness
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar Provides sweetness
- 1 tsp baking soda Kicks up the fluffiness
- 1 tsp cocoa powder Adds a touch of depth
- 0.5 tsp salt Enhances all the flavors
- 1.5 cups vegetable oil Creates moisture
- 1 cup buttermilk Brings a slight tanginess
- 2 large eggs Ensures richness and structure
- 2 tbsp red food coloring For that striking color
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Adding aromatic sweetness
- 1 tsp white vinegar Helps to lighten the cake
For the cream cheese frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened For smooth frosting
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened For creaminess
- 4 cups powdered sugar Achieving that fluffy frosting
- 1 tsp vanilla extract For added flavor
- 1 pinch salt Balancing the sweetness
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them or lining them with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. Whisk until thoroughly blended.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Baking
- Bake the cakes for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting & Assembly
- Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until smooth.
- Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving platter, frost the top with cream cheese frosting, and place the second layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
- Optionally, decorate with cake crumbs or edible decorations.
Serving
- Slice into generous pieces and serve.
Notes
Tips include using a serrated knife for leveling cakes, allowing cakes to cool completely before frosting, and optional pairing suggestions with ice cream or fresh berries.