Description
This classic Red Velvet Cake features a moist, tender crumb with a subtle cocoa flavor and a signature vibrant red color, layered and frosted with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or any time you want a show-stopping dessert, this recipe combines traditional ingredients and simple steps to create a beloved American treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt to combine evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, room temperature eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until the frosting is fluffy.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the entire cake evenly with the cream cheese frosting.
Notes
- For a more vibrant red color, use gel-based red food coloring which provides deeper hues without additional liquid.
- This cake is best served at room temperature to enjoy the full flavor and texture of the cake and frosting.
- Store the frosted cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
