Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
A moist and vibrant red velvet cake topped with rich cream cheese frosting, perfect for any celebration.
Equipment
- oven
- mixing bowls
- electric mixer
- 9-inch round cake pans
- wire rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2.5 cups All-purpose flour Provides structure to the cake.
- 1.5 cups Granulated sugar Adds sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda Helps the cake rise.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Cocoa powder Adds a subtle chocolate flavor.
- 1.5 cups Vegetable oil Keeps the cake moist.
- 1 cup Buttermilk Adds moisture and tang.
- 2 large Eggs Provides structure and moisture.
- 2 tablespoons Red food coloring Gives the cake its signature color.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Adds flavor.
- 1 teaspoon White vinegar Enhances the red color and flavor.
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted butter Softened, for the frosting.
- 8 oz Cream cheese Softened, for the frosting.
- 4 cups Powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract Adds flavor to the frosting.
- 2 tablespoons Milk Optional, for consistency.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until well combined. Add milk if needed for consistency, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
- Slice and serve your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Notes
This cake is perfect for celebrations and can be made gluten-free or vegan with appropriate substitutions.