If you’re ready to indulge in pure, velvety delight, look no further because I’m about to share The BEST Red Velvet Cake Recipe with you. This classic dessert is more than just a cake; it’s a celebration of rich flavors, moist crumb, and that unmistakable tender texture paired with luscious cream cheese frosting. Every bite brings a perfect harmony of sweetness, subtle cocoa notes, and that signature vibrant red color that immediately feels like a special occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a birthday, or just because you deserve it, this recipe will become your go-to for all things red velvet perfection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting The BEST Red Velvet Cake Recipe starts with straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role in building the cake’s fabulous taste and texture. From the softness of the cake layers to the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, every element combines to create something truly magical.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives structure while keeping the cake tender.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Adds essential sweetness and helps create that tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to give a light, airy rise.
- 1 teaspoon fine salt: Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder: Provides a subtle chocolate depth and authentic red velvet flavor.
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil: Keeps the cake exceptionally moist and tender.
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature): Adds a slight tang and tenderizes the crumb.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind ingredients and provide structure and richness.
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring: The signature visual pop that makes red velvet instantly recognizable.
- 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar: Reacts with baking soda for lift and enhances the cake’s velvety texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): The star of the frosting, contributing smooth tang and richness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Balances the frosting with creaminess and body.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Infuses the frosting with a lovely aromatic note.
How to Make The BEST Red Velvet Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing and flouring two 9-inch round cake pans. This simple step ensures the cake layers release easily after baking, making your assembly smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Sifting is key here because it prevents lumps and ensures your cake has a fine, even texture.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Whisk vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, white vinegar, and vanilla extract in another bowl until everything is beautifully combined. Whisking these well helps create the signature smooth, vibrant batter that makes this red velvet so memorable.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until smooth to avoid overmixing, which can make cakes dense. The result should be a velvety, rich red batter ready to bake.
Step 5: Bake Your Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared cake pans. Pop them into the oven and bake for 30 to 32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking them evenly is crucial to get those perfectly risen layers.
Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely. Cooling thoroughly ensures that your frosting doesn’t melt when you spread it on.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until fluffy, then gradually add powdered sugar and beat until smooth and creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract last to infuse the frosting with that lovely aroma and depth.
Step 8: Frost and Assemble
Once your cake layers have fully cooled, generously frost one layer, then top with the second and cover the whole cake in luscious cream cheese frosting. This frosting is the crowning glory that transforms this cake into an irresistible showstopper.
How to Serve The BEST Red Velvet Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the classic cream cheese frosting is stunning on its own, sprinkling some fresh red berry compote or a few edible flowers adds a delicate touch that makes each slice feel like a little celebration. Toasted pecans or chocolate shavings on top also add a delightful crunch to contrast the softness.
Side Dishes
Serve this beautiful red velvet cake alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk. If you want to elevate your dessert spread, pair it with light whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement the cake’s rich texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive vibe, slice the cake into petite squares and layer them in a clear trifle dish with alternating layers of frosting and fresh berries. Alternatively, use cupcake liners and bake this batter in muffin tins for adorable mini red velvet cakes that are perfect for parties and easy sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it moist. Refrigeration is recommended because of the cream cheese frosting, and it will stay delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw the layers overnight in the fridge before frosting. For frosted cake, freezing is possible but note the texture of the frosting may change slightly upon thawing.
Reheating
Red velvet cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm slice, briefly microwave a single portion for about 10-15 seconds, but avoid reheating the whole cake to preserve texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a simple substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes. This creates the acidity needed for that perfect cake tenderness.
Why is vinegar used in The BEST Red Velvet Cake Recipe?
Vinegar reacts with baking soda to provide a light rise and helps enhance the cake’s tender, moist crumb. It also works with the cocoa powder to bring out that signature subtle chocolate flavor.
How do I get a deep red color without artificial food coloring?
For a natural alternative, use beet juice or powder, but be aware that natural options can affect the flavor slightly. Gel food coloring is also an excellent choice for a more intense and vibrant hue without altering the batter’s consistency.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
This recipe can be adapted using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to ensure the cake holds together and stays moist.
Is cream cheese frosting the only option for this cake?
While cream cheese frosting is traditional and delicious, you can also try a classic buttercream, whipped cream frosting, or even a mascarpone glaze depending on your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that the tangy richness of cream cheese really enhances the overall flavor profile here.
Final Thoughts
Making The BEST Red Velvet Cake Recipe is truly a rewarding experience that results in a stunning dessert perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you try this recipe, with its beautifully tender layers and creamy frosting, it will quickly become a cherished staple in your baking repertoire. So grab your apron, get ready to bake, and treat yourself and your friends to a slice of something special that’s full of love and flavor.
Print
The BEST Red Velvet Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 32 minutes
- Total Time: 52 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Red Velvet Cake features moist, tender layers with a hint of cocoa, vibrant red color, and a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or any special occasion, this recipe yields a beautifully layered dessert that’s both delicious and visually stunning.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder to evenly distribute the ingredients and remove lumps.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, white distilled vinegar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, gently mixing just until the batter reads smooth. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Divide and Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans. Place in the oven and bake for 30 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Cool Cakes: Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then carefully turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely to prevent sogginess.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while beating until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble Cake: Once the cake layers are completely cooled, frost the top of one layer, then place the second layer on top. Cover the entire cake with cream cheese frosting evenly. Decorate as desired and serve.
Notes
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture and smooth batter.
- Use gel food coloring instead of liquid for a deeper, more vibrant red color without altering the batter’s consistency.
- This cake holds up well and layers beautifully, making it ideal for stacking or tiered cakes.
- For best results, avoid overmixing the batter to keep the crumb tender.
