Indulging in a slice of Decadent Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a true treat for the senses. This cake is not only visually stunning with its vibrant red color, but it also delights the palate with layers of moist texture and tangy sweetness. The combination of rich flavors, creamy frosting, and a touch of cocoa makes it a favorite for celebrations, birthdays, and holiday gatherings. What’s even better? This recipe is surprisingly simple to follow, so you can easily impress your guests or simply enjoy a slice yourself at home.
This delightful cake is an American classic deeply rooted in tradition. The red velvet cake is known for its soft crumb and striking appearance, often contrasted beautifully by the white cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring your dessert turns out perfect every time. Grab your apron, because you’ll want to make this stunning dessert for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Decadent Red Velvet Cake
This Decadent Red Velvet Cake is not only appealing but also comes with a myriad of reasons why it will become your go-to cake recipe:
- Flavor Fusion: The combination of cocoa, buttermilk, and the signature cream cheese frosting offers a flavor experience unlike any other cake.
- Visually Stunning: The deep red hue catches the eye and makes it perfect for special occasions.
- Simple Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up this beauty at any time.
- Versatile Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or holiday, this cake suits every celebration.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: With no animal products other than eggs, it fits well into a vegetarian diet.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into this delectable cake, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized for a smooth baking process. You’ll need two 9-inch round cake pans, preferably non-stick, which will make it easier to release the cake once baked. Line the bottoms with parchment paper to guarantee your layers come out cleanly.
Have the following tools on hand to streamline your baking:
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for combining dry ingredients and a medium bowl for the wet ingredients.
- Whisk: To thoroughly mix the batter, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of your bowl and smoothing the frosting.
- Cooling rack: Necessary for allowing the cakes to cool completely before frosting them.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your Decadent Red Velvet Cake:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease both 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray, then line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will ensure that your cake layers release easily once they are baked.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, fine salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder. This step is crucial as it helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour, ensuring your cake rises perfectly.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, room-temperature buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, white distilled vinegar, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until well combined. The vinegar reacts with the baking soda to help create that soft, fluffy texture characteristic of red velvet cake.
Step 4: Bring it Together
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. It’s perfectly fine if there are a few small lumps in the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops, and bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is vital; if you frost the cakes while still warm, the frosting could melt and slide off.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until fluffy and light. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and the additional vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency. Adjust the sweetness by adding more powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter frosting.
Step 8: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes have cooled completely, level the tops if necessary for an even stacking. Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Carefully place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. For added garnish, consider topping with fresh strawberries or your choice of decorations.
Step 9: Chill and Serve
For best results, chill the decorated cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the frosting set and makes for cleaner cuts, allowing you to serve beautifully sliced pieces of cake.
Variations
If you’re looking to mix it up a bit, here are some delightful variations to try with your Red Velvet Cake:
- Protein: Add a layer of chocolate ganache or a light whipped cream layer for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Incorporate some pureed strawberries or raspberries into the frosting for a fresh taste.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Cooking Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for the best results; this contributes to a smoother batter.
- Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftover cake covered in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 5 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
- Serve with freshly brewed coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
Tips
- Don’t skip the chilling time. Chilling the cake helps solidify the frosting and makes for prettier slices!
- Consider using gel food coloring for a more vibrant hue—it works brilliantly compared to liquid colors.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per slice
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
FAQs
How do I know when my cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and frost them on the day you plan to serve.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar; let it sit for five minutes before using.
Can I freeze red velvet cake?
Yes! You can freeze the layers wrapped individually in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before frosting.
Conclusion
The Decadent Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its moist layers infused with subtle cocoa flavor paired with the tangy, rich frosting creates a heavenly experience. Whether for a birthday, an anniversary, or simply to share with loved ones, this cake never fails to impress. We encourage you to try your hand at baking this wonderful cake and share your variations with us in the comments below. Happy baking!
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Decadent Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Decadent Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a show-stopping dessert that delights the senses with its rich flavors and visually stunning layers.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease both 9-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, fine salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, room-temperature buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, white distilled vinegar, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smoothing the tops, bake for 30–35 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick.
- Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a mixing bowl, then gradually add powdered sugar and additional vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once cakes are completely cool, frost with cream cheese frosting on layers and sides.
- Chill the decorated cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for the best results; this contributes to a smoother batter. Leftover cake can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Protein: 6 g