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Red Velvet Cake

A vibrant dessert characterized by its rich flavor, moist texture, and smooth cream cheese frosting, perfect for celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Celebration, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients
  • 2.5 cups cake flour Provides a tender texture
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda React with vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder Unsweetened for subtle flavor
  • 1.5 cups vegetable oil Keeps the cake moist
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature Adds tanginess
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring Enhances color
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar For reaction with baking soda
Frosting Ingredients
  • 1 package cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 cup butter, softened
  • 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
Baking
  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  2. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. While the cakes cool, prepare your cream cheese frosting by mixing softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract until well combined.
Assembly
  1. Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting, and top with the second layer.
  2. Frost the top and sides of the cake.
Serving
  1. Slice and enjoy your homemade Red Velvet Cake!

Notes

For best results, use room temperature ingredients and high-quality cocoa powder. Adjust food coloring to achieve desired hue. Avoid overmixing to maintain light cake structure.