Classic Red Velvet Cake

Introduction

Red Velvet Cake is a popular dessert known for its striking red color and rich, velvety texture. This cake is often paired with a creamy cream cheese frosting, making it a favorite for celebrations and special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or holiday, Red Velvet Cake brings a vibrant touch to any table.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Classic Red Velvet Cake is a delightful experience that everyone can enjoy. The cake’s unique flavor and soft texture make it incredibly satisfying. The contrast between the rich, sweet cake and the tangy cream cheese frosting is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a fun recipe to prepare that can be shared with family and friends, creating sweet memories in the kitchen.

How to Make Classic Red Velvet Cake

Making this cake might seem a bit challenging, but it’s straightforward and rewarding. With just a few simple steps, you will have a stunning cake that tastes as amazing as it looks.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
1 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons red food coloring (liquid or gel)
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix on low speed with an electric mixer until just combined and smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth after each addition.
Beat in the vanilla extract until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the cake. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.
Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
If desired, you can decorate with extra red velvet cake crumbs or chocolate drizzles.

How to Serve Classic Red Velvet Cake

Slice the cake into wedges and serve it on a nice plate. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for an afternoon treat or dessert after dinner.

How to Store Classic Red Velvet Cake

To store your Red Velvet Cake, keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, place it in the refrigerator, where it can last for about a week. Just ensure it’s properly covered to keep it fresh.

Tips to Make Classic Red Velvet Cake

Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture.
Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the wet ingredients.
If you want a stronger chocolate flavor, you can add more cocoa powder, but keep in mind that this will change the color.

Variation

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding chocolate chips to the batter or using a layer of raspberry jam between the cake layers for added flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use different food coloring?
Yes, you can use other colors of food coloring to achieve a fun look, but red is traditional for Red Velvet Cake.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, you can cut back on the sugar in the cake and the frosting by about 1/4 cup each.

3. Can I freeze the Red Velvet Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake layers individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before frosting.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Classic Red Velvet Cake!