Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Red Velvet Cake, with its rich color and decadent flavor, remains a beloved treat for celebrations and special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe promises to deliver a moist, velvety texture with a hint of cocoa and a delightful cream cheese frosting. Here’s how you can recreate this classic dessert at home:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

1. Combine Wet Ingredients:

• In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar until well combined.

1. Combine and Beat:

• Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed with a hand mixer or stand mixer until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed, ensuring no pockets of flour remain.

1. Bake:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

1. Cool:

• Remove cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

1. Prepare Frosting:

• While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.

1. Assemble:

• Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

1. Decorate (Optional):

• For an elegant touch, sprinkle cake crumbs, red velvet crumbs, or decorate with chocolate shavings on top.

1. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Slice and serve this delightful Red Velvet Cake to friends and family, celebrating the richness and beauty of this timeless dessert.

Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this Red Velvet Cake recipe is sure to impress with its moist texture, vibrant color, and unforgettable taste. Enjoy the baking process and the joy it brings to those who indulge in each slice!