Red Velvet Cake is a timeless classic, known for its striking red color, subtle cocoa flavor, and velvety texture. Paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is pure indulgence for birthdays, special occasions, or anytime you crave something decadent.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 115g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 120ml (½ cup) vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp red food coloring (gel or liquid)
- 240ml (1 cup) buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 225g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 115g (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 360g (3 cups) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour in the vegetable oil, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix until smooth.
- Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined—do not overmix!
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and mix until fluffy.
- Stir in vanilla extract and beat until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble & Decorate
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake.
- For extra flair, garnish with cake crumbs, sprinkles, or fresh berries.
Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cake
✅ Use gel food coloring for a richer red hue.
✅ Do not overmix the batter—this keeps the cake soft and tender.
✅ Chilling the cake before slicing makes it easier to cut clean layers.
📌 Want a shortcut? This batter works beautifully for cupcakes—just bake for 18-20 minutes!
Enjoy your homemade Red Velvet Cake! ❤️🍰