Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a truly decadent dessert that combines striking color with irresistible flavor, then this Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is an absolute must-try. Its tender crumb, subtle chocolate undertones, and rich, tangy frosting make every bite a celebration. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting treat, this cake never fails to impress with its perfect balance of taste and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together seamlessly to create a luscious cake. Each ingredient plays its part, from the cocoa powder adding depth and color to the buttermilk tenderizing the crumb for that signature velvet feel.

• 2 ½ cups All-purpose flour (or cake flour 2 ¾ cups): Provides structure and a soft crumb.
• 2 tablespoons Cocoa powder (Dutch-processed recommended): Adds the subtle chocolate flavor and the classic red velvet tint enhancement.
• 1 ½ cups Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps with moisture retention.
• 1 cup Vegetable oil (or melted butter/applesauce substitute): Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 2 Large eggs (room temperature): Binds ingredients and gives structure.
• 1 cup Buttermilk (or milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice): Adds tang and reacts with leaveners for soft texture.
• 2 tablespoons Red food coloring (adjust to preferred intensity): Creates the signature vibrant red color.
• 1 teaspoon White vinegar: Reacts with baking soda for that delicate rise and velvet crumb.
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract (or almond extract, use 1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda: A leavening agent that works with vinegar for lightness.
• ½ teaspoon Salt: Balances sweetness and brings out other flavors.
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 oz Cream cheese (full-fat, softened): The creamy, tangy base for the frosting.
• ½ cup Butter (unsalted, softened): Adds richness and smoothness.
• 3-4 cups Powdered sugar (adjust to taste and thickness): Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (or almond extract ½ tsp): Elevates the frosting’s flavor.
• 1 pinch Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the tang.

How to Make Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, and grease two 9-inch cake pans before lining them with parchment paper. Bringing all ingredients to room temperature ensures they combine smoothly for a uniform batter that bakes evenly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt in a large bowl. This step ensures the cocoa is evenly distributed and prevents lumps, creating a smooth base for your red velvet cake batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Beat the vegetable oil and granulated sugar until they form a well-combined, silky mixture. Next, add the eggs one at a time followed by the vanilla extract to build on the flavor while maintaining the richness of the batter.

Step 4: Add Color and Moisture

Mix the red food coloring into the buttermilk, which not only contributes moisture but also enhances the cake’s tender crumb and vibrant hue. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and this colored buttermilk into your wet mixture, folding gently to keep the batter light.

Step 5: Activate the Leavening Agents

Stir together the white vinegar and baking soda in a small bowl until foamy, then fold immediately into the batter. This fizzing reaction is essential to give your red velvet cake its tender but airy texture.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and place them in the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This perfect bake time ensures moist layers without overcooking.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely; this cooling is crucial before frosting to prevent melting or sliding.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and softened butter together until fluffy, creating a smooth and luscious frosting base. Gradually add powdered sugar until you reach your desired sweetness and thickness, then stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to bring harmony to the flavors.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and generously spread frosting over the top. Follow with the second layer, then cover the entire cake with frosting on the top and sides. This layering and frosting step is where your cake truly comes to life, both in looks and taste.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Adding extra touches like fresh berries, edible flowers, or even a dusting of cocoa powder elevates the presentation of this Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These garnishes bring additional color contrast and a pop of freshness that beautifully complements the richness of the cake.

Side Dishes

Serving this cake alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea creates a delightful balance. These companions either contrast or complement the cake’s decadence, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing the cake into elegant tiers for a fancy gathering or cutting into bite-sized mini squares for a party platter. You can also pipe a decorative border or pattern on the frosting to personalize your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe and wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cream cheese frosting means it’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to maintain freshness and avoid drying out. Remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake either as baked layers or fully frosted slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating

Since this cake is best served at room temperature, avoid microwaving if possible as it can alter texture and cause the frosting to melt unevenly. Instead, let refrigerated or frozen slices sit out for 30 minutes to warm gently before serving.

FAQs

Can I substitute the buttermilk in the Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

Absolutely! You can make a simple substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. This mimics the acidity of buttermilk, helping to tenderize your cake just as well.

Is it possible to make this cake without red food coloring?

While the iconic red color defines red velvet cake, you can opt for natural alternatives like beet juice or powdered beetroot. Keep in mind, these may slightly alter the flavor and intensity of the color.

How can I ensure my cream cheese frosting turns out smooth and creamy?

Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature to blend smoothly. Beat them together well before gradually adding powdered sugar to prevent lumps and achieve that luscious frosting texture.

What if I only have granulated sugar — can I use brown sugar instead?

Brown sugar will add moisture and a slight caramel flavor, which can be delicious but will change the traditional profile of red velvet cake. Granulated sugar keeps the flavor bright and the crumb tender.

Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?

Yes! Doubling the ingredients works great. Just be sure to use larger or more pans and monitor the baking time closely, as larger cakes may require a bit longer to bake through.

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe truly holds a special place in any dessert lover’s heart. It’s a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and colors that makes every celebration a little sweeter. I encourage you to try baking this at home—it’s not just a cake, it’s a joyful experience you’ll want to share again and again.

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