This Classic Red Velvet Cake is perfect for any occasion. With its vibrant red hue, moist and tender crumb, and rich cream cheese frosting, it’s a treat that everyone will love. Let’s dive into making this delectable cake!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 10-12 servings
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 2/3 cups (310g) cake flour
- 2 tbsp (16g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp (5g) baking soda
- 1 tsp (5g) salt
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 1/2 cup (300g) sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup (220g) vegetable oil
- 1 tsp (5ml) white vinegar
- 2 tsp (10g) vanilla extract
- 1 cup (240g) buttermilk, room temperature
- 1-2 oz (30g) red food coloring gel
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 17 oz (500g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 1/3 cup (300g) heavy whipping cream, chilled
- 1 tsp (5g) vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cup (156g) powdered sugar
Instructions
Prepare the Cake Batter:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease with butter and dust with flour two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans.
- Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine.
- Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix butter with sugar until combined. Incorporate eggs one at a time. Mix in oil, vinegar, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until well combined.
- Color the Batter: Gradually add red food coloring until the desired color is reached.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the pans cool on a cooling rack for 10 minutes. Remove the cakes from the pans and let them cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting:
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a bowl, sift the powdered sugar. Beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Whip Cream: In another bowl, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually fold it into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Assemble the Cake:
- Level the Cakes: Cut the tops of the cakes to create flat surfaces. Make crumbs out of the leftover pieces of cake and set aside.
- Layer and Frost: Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread evenly with a bit less than half of the frosting. Add the second layer of cake. Gradually spread the remaining frosting on top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate: Decorate the cake with the reserved cake crumbs if desired. The cake is ready to serve.
- Storage: The leftover frosted cake can be covered and refrigerated for up to a week. Serve at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices of the cake with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra treat.
Cooking Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Whipping Cream: Ensure the whipping cream is chilled before whipping for best results.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cream Cheese: Provides protein and calcium.
- Cocoa: Contains antioxidants and can improve mood.
Dietary Information
- Contains Gluten: This recipe uses all-purpose flour.
- Contains Dairy: Butter, cream cheese, and whipping cream are used.
- Contains Eggs: Eggs are an essential ingredient in this recipe.
Storage
- Store the leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious and Moist: The perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant red color and creamy frosting make it a showstopper.
- Versatile: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.
Conclusion
This Classic Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With its beautiful color, moist texture, and rich frosting, it’s the perfect dessert for any celebration. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful cake with your loved ones!