Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you have a soft spot for desserts that marry elegance with a splash of vibrant color, then this Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is going to steal your heart. This classic Southern-inspired cake boasts a tender crumb with just the right touch of cocoa and a signature red hue, all crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s perfectly tangy and sweet. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite, delivering a moist, velvety slice every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the key to nailing the perfect Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Each ingredient plays an essential role in the final texture, flavor, and that iconic red color that makes this cake so unforgettable.

• All-purpose flour (2 ½ cups): Provides the structure for a tender but sturdy crumb; cake flour can also be used for an even lighter texture.
• Cocoa powder (2 tablespoons): Dutch-processed cocoa is recommended to deliver just a hint of chocolate and enhance the red color.
• Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens while helping the cake stay moist and tender.
• Vegetable oil (1 cup): Keeps the cake unbelievably moist and soft; you can substitute with melted butter or applesauce.
• Large eggs (2): Bind all ingredients and lend richness and lift.
• Buttermilk (1 cup): Its acidity tenderizes the crumb and reacts with baking soda to give that velvety texture, or make a quick substitute by adding lemon juice to milk.
• Red food coloring (2 tablespoons): The star of the show, adjust the amount to achieve your desired intensity.
• White vinegar (1 teaspoon): Reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise and gives a subtle tang that balances sweetness.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds warmth and depth; almond extract can be used for a slight twist.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Leavens the cake, working magic with the vinegar and buttermilk.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
• Cream cheese (8 oz): Full-fat and softened, it’s the creamy heart of the frosting.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup): Adds richness and smoothness to the frosting.
• Powdered sugar (3-4 cups): Sweetens and creates the perfect fluffy frosting texture.
• Vanilla extract for frosting (1 teaspoon): Boosts flavor and aroma of the cream cheese frosting.
• A pinch of salt for frosting: Balances sweetness and intensifies flavor.

How to Make Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper to ensure your cakes come out perfectly without sticking. It’s also a great idea to bring all your ingredients to room temperature, which helps with mixing and achieving a smooth batter.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, and salt. This blend ensures even distribution of cocoa and helps build the cake’s tender structure without clumps.

Step 3: Beat the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the vegetable oil and granulated sugar until fully combined and slightly fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then mix in the vanilla extract to infuse your batter with that warm, comforting flavor.

Step 4: Combine Buttermilk and Food Coloring

Mix the red food coloring into the buttermilk until you reach a gorgeous, deep red shade. This step ensures vibrant color throughout the entire cake, not just on the surface.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients and buttermilk mixture alternately to your wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry. This keeps your batter smooth and prevents it from becoming too dense while maintaining moisture.

Step 6: Add the Vinegar and Baking Soda

Quickly stir together the white vinegar and baking soda until it bubbles, then gently fold this reaction-filled mixture into the batter immediately. This reaction is what gives the cake its signature fluffy, velvety texture.

Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes will have an irresistible crumb that holds together beautifully.

Step 8: Cool the Cakes

Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Cooling them fully is crucial so that the frosting doesn’t melt and slide off.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition to avoid lumps. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate and generously spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly for a stunning finish that looks as good as it tastes.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, consider adding delicate garnishes such as fresh raspberries, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, or even toasted white chocolate shavings. These simple touches lend a visual pop and add complementary flavor notes that make each bite exciting.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a light cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for the perfect balance. For a more festive occasion, serve alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to brighten the palate and add an extra element of indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Try cutting the cake into small, elegant squares for a party dessert table or assemble cupcakes using this exact recipe for personal-sized treats. You can also layer the cake in a clear glass trifle bowl with extra frosting and berries for a stunning presentation that will wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover slices of Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the cream cheese frosting fresh and the cake moist for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to bring the slices to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake layers or fully assembled and frosted cake. Wrap layers tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen cake layers last for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting or serving.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake fresh from refrigeration or freezing, allow it to come to room temperature. If warmth is desired, a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds will soften the frosting slightly without melting it. Avoid overheating to keep the perfect balance of creamy frosting and tender crumb.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk, let it sit for 5 minutes, and then use as a substitute. This gives you the acidity needed for the signature texture and tang.

Is it necessary to use red food coloring?

While red food coloring gives Red Velvet Cake its iconic look, some recipes can use beet juice or natural coloring alternatives. Just note that natural options may result in a less vibrant hue but still offer great flavor.

How do I prevent the cream cheese frosting from being too runny?

Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are softened but not melted. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy for the perfect consistency. If it’s too soft, chill it before frosting to firm it up.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup for cup. Just be sure your blend contains xanthan gum or similar for structure, and adjust baking times as needed.

What is the best way to get even cake layers?

Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly between pans or pour the batter slowly while checking with a spatula. Level the tops with a spatula before baking to ensure uniform layers, which makes assembling and frosting much easier.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about a homemade Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that brings smiles and makes moments memorable. This recipe offers a perfect balance of tender crumb, gentle cocoa flavor, and creamy frosting that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I encourage you to try it out—once you do, it will surely become one of your go-to cakes for celebrations and simple indulgences alike.

Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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3.9 from 28 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This classic Red Velvet Cake features a tender and moist crumb with a hint of cocoa, a vibrant red color, and is topped with a smooth, creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or a delightful dessert treat.

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Ingredients

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Cake Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups All-purpose flour (or 2 ¾ cups cake flour)
• 2 tablespoons Cocoa powder (Dutch-processed recommended)
• 1 ½ cups Granulated sugar
• 1 cup Vegetable oil (or melted butter/applesauce substitute)
• 2 Large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 cup Buttermilk (or milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
• 2 tablespoons Red food coloring (adjust to preferred intensity)
• 1 teaspoon White vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract (or 1 teaspoon almond extract)
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• ½ teaspoon Salt

Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz Cream cheese (full-fat, softened)
• ½ cup Butter (unsalted, softened)
• 3–4 cups Powdered sugar (adjust to taste and thickness)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (or ½ teaspoon almond extract)
• 1 pinch Salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt until evenly combined.
3. Cream Oil and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the vegetable oil and granulated sugar until well combined and smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Mix the red food coloring into the buttermilk. Alternately add the dry ingredients and the red buttermilk mixture into the batter, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
5. Activate Leavening: Stir together the white vinegar and baking soda in a small bowl until it fizzes. Immediately fold this mixture into the batter to help achieve the signature velvet texture.
6. Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake Layers: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then carefully invert onto wire racks and allow them to cool completely before frosting.
8. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar while continuing to beat until the frosting reaches desired thickness and sweetness. Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance flavor.
9. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly. Smooth the frosting or create decorative swirls as desired.

Notes

• For a more intense red color, increase the amount of food coloring to your preference.
• Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
• Substitute buttermilk with milk plus lemon juice or vinegar if buttermilk is unavailable.
• Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lighter, more tender crumb.
• Store the cake refrigerated due to the cream cheese frosting; bring to room temperature before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American