red velvet cake recipe

red velvet cake recipe

The Best red velvet cake recipe

I’m so excited to share this red velvet cake recipe with you all. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

There’s something about the combination of the moist cake, the cream cheese frosting, and the subtle cocoa flavor that just makes it irresistible. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites – they get to mix and stir the batter, and then we get to decorate the finished cake together with cream cheese frosting and sprinkles.

I’ve served this cake at countless family gatherings, birthday parties, and even just as a special treat on a Tuesday evening. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and I love how it makes our home smell like a bakery when it’s baking in the oven.

Plus, the best part is that it’s surprisingly easy to make – even my kids can help with that part! The secret ingredient is buttermilk, which gives the cake its signature tanginess.

I like to use high-quality cocoa powder for an intense chocolate flavor. And of course, we can’t forget the cream cheese frosting – it’s what really sets this cake apart from other recipes.

I make it with a mix of softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. It’s the perfect complement to the rich, velvety cake.

Classic Red Velvet Cake

Classic Red Velvet Cake

4.6 from 869 votes

This red velvet cake is a classic dessert with a moist, tender crumb and a tangy cream cheese frosting. It is perfect for any celebration or a sweet treat.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 tbsp distilled white vinegar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 tbsp red food coloring
1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Frosting

16 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup unsalted butter
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping

1/4 cup chopped walnuts

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Set aside.
3In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
Set aside.
4In a large bowl, beat the sugar and oil together until well combined.
5Add the vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring.
6Stir well to combine.
7Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk.
8Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
9Mix just until combined and the batter is smooth.
10Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
11Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
12Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
13Then, remove them from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
14To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
15Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well until combined and the frosting is smooth.
16Add the vanilla extract and beat until well combined.
17If the frosting is too thick, add a small amount of milk or cream to reach your desired consistency.
18Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on one cake and place the second cake on top.
19Spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
20Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top.
21Smooth the frosting and garnish the top with chopped walnuts.
22Slice and serve the cake.

🔧Equipment

Two 9-inch round cake pans
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Spatula
Cooling rack
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 400mg🌾Total Carbs: 58g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 45g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For a richer flavor, use a high-quality vanilla extract. Ensure that the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Watch Video Of How Classic Red Velvet Cake Works

This red velvet cake recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just need a pick-me-up on a Tuesday afternoon.

My family loves how moist and flavorful it turns out every time (and they’re super helpful in making it happen).

One of our favorite ways to serve this cake is as an afternoon snack or dessert after dinner – we like to slice into thick slabs and enjoy while watching TV or playing board games together.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Red Velvet Cake

What is red velvet cake?

Red velvet cake is a type of chocolate cake that gets its distinctive red color from food coloring or cocoa powder. The original recipe was developed by Texas-based grocery store chain Adams Extract in the 1920s as a way to promote their new food product.

Can I use almond milk instead of buttermilk?

While almond milk can be used as a substitute in some recipes, it won’t provide the same tangy flavor that buttermilk does. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice – let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

How do I make sure my cake is moist?

To ensure your cake turns out moist and delicious, make sure not to overmix the batter – stop mixing once you’ve combined your dry ingredients with your wet ingredients. Also, don’t overbake – check your cake frequently towards the end of baking time and remove it from the oven when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I use a store-bought cream cheese frosting?

While store-bought cream cheese frosting can be convenient, homemade frosting is always better! It’s easy to make by mixing softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract – adjust to taste until you get the perfect consistency.

How do I store leftover cake?

Leftover red velvet cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When storing in an airtight container in the fridge, make sure to press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the cake before covering with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

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