If you’ve been hunting for a show-stopping dessert that combines a gentle cocoa hint with the richest cream cheese frosting, look no further. The Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Recipe is everything you crave in a luscious, tender cake with that vibrant red color that instantly brightens any celebration. This recipe delivers moist layers and the perfect balance of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds — or maybe thirds. Trust me, once you make this, it will become your go-to for birthdays, holidays, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this cake lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving that classic flavor, incredible texture, and irresistible color.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for soft, tender layers.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping create a moist crumb.
- 1 tsp baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened): Adds a subtle chocolate depth that’s signature to red velvet.
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without weighing it down.
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature: Brings tanginess and reacts with baking soda for a light texture.
- 2 large eggs, room temperature: Adds richness and binds the ingredients perfectly.
- 2 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel): The iconic vibrant red hue that makes this cake so striking.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the cake’s flavor.
- 1 tsp white vinegar: Works with baking soda to give the cake its tender crumb and slight tang.
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: The star ingredient in the frosting for tangy, creamy sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and smoothness to the frosting.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve that silky texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Complements the cream cheese frosting beautifully.
- 1-2 tbsp heavy cream: Adjusts the frosting consistency to make it perfectly spreadable.
How to Make The Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to a warm 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring two 9-inch round cake pans or lining them with parchment paper ensures your delicate layers come out perfectly shaped and ready to stack.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. This dry blend sets the foundation for your tender, flavorful cake, so get it nice and evenly combined for the best results.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until smooth. This vibrant, liquid mixture is what brings moisture, richness, and the iconic color to your batter.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry, stirring just until combined. It’s key not to overmix here—overworking the batter can make the cake tough. A few lumps are perfectly fine and will still bake into a soft crumb.
Step 5: Bake Your Cake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and slide them into the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, let the cakes rest in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool fully.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat softened cream cheese and butter in a large bowl until fluffy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, blending well between additions. Stir in vanilla extract and start adding heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until your frosting reaches that dreamy, spreadable texture.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Once the layers are completely cool, generously frost the first cake layer, then top with the second. Cover the entire cake with frosting, smoothing the sides and top for a flawless finish that’s as delicious to look at as it is to taste.
How to Serve The Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation by sprinkling extra cake crumbs or delicate red velvet shavings on top. These add texture and a professional touch that’s sure to impress your guests.
Side Dishes
Serve this cake alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The fruity brightness or creamy cold contrast beautifully with the rich, moist layers.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, transform the cake into cupcakes using the same batter and frosting, giving you charming individual treats. Or slice and layer it in a trifle with berries and whipped cream for a unique dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the cake moist and protects it from absorbing other fridge odors for up to 4 days.
Freezing
The cake layers freeze exceptionally well. Wrap each layer securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before freezing. To frost later, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before assembling and frosting.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warmed, briefly microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds. This softens the frosting and enhances that fresh-baked experience without drying out the cake.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes! Light olive oil or canola oil are great alternatives that won’t overpower the delicate flavor of the cake.
Is red food coloring necessary for the flavor?
The red food coloring primarily creates the classic color, but it doesn’t affect the flavor much. You can reduce it slightly if you prefer a lighter hue.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You’d need a specialized gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. It may slightly alter the texture but can still yield delicious results.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?
Leaving it out at room temperature for 30-60 minutes usually works best. Alternatively, microwave in short 10-second bursts, checking frequently to avoid melting.
How do I prevent my frosting from becoming too runny?
Use chilled heavy cream and add it sparingly, just a teaspoon at a time, until you reach the perfect consistency. If it does get runny, refrigerate it for a bit to firm up before frosting.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the secret to crafting The Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Recipe, there’s nothing stopping you from delighting your friends and family with a dessert that’s as stunning as it is scrumptious. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become your beloved classic. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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The Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ultimate Red Velvet Cake recipe delivers a moist, tender cake with a vibrant red color and a hint of cocoa flavor, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy homemade cream cheese frosting. Ideal for celebrations or any special occasion, this classic dessert is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp white vinegar
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp heavy cream (to adjust frosting consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In a separate bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing and ensure a tender crumb.
- Bake the Cake: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth. Add vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of heavy cream. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream, a teaspoon at a time, if too thick.
- Assemble the Cake: Once completely cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting over the first cake layer. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides evenly with the remaining frosting.
- Serve: Optionally decorate with extra cake crumbs or red velvet shavings on top. Slice and enjoy your delicious homemade red velvet cake.
Notes
- Ensure all cold ingredients are at room temperature for better batter mixing and cake texture.
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a light and fluffy cake.
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color without thinning the batter.
- You can substitute buttermilk with milk and vinegar if needed.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
