BEST EVER Red Velvet Cake with dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: BEST EVER Red Velvet Cake with dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tablespoons red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons milk (if needed)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the ultimate dessert delight with this velvety soft Red Velvet Cake layered with rich and creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfectly moist and bursting with flavor, this stunning cake is a showstopper for any celebration or cozy gathering. Its vibrant color and delectable taste will impress your family and friends, making it a must-bake for birthdays, holidays, or just because.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-17T02:33:35.912Z

This Red Velvet Cake is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. With its luscious cream cheese frosting, it transforms any occasion into a celebrated feast.

The Story Behind Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Originally a Southern classic, this vibrant dessert became immensely popular due to its striking appearance and unique flavor. It was often served on special occasions, especially around the holidays and during celebrations. Today, it remains a beloved choice for birthdays, weddings, and other festivities, captivating dessert enthusiasts around the globe.

The combination of cocoa powder and buttermilk gives Red Velvet Cake its distinctive mild chocolate flavor, while the vibrant red hue makes it an eye-catching centerpiece. The cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the cake’s sweetness, adding a layer of richness that transforms every bite into pure indulgence. It’s no wonder this cake has become synonymous with special moments and joyful gatherings.

Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cake

To achieve the perfect Red Velvet Cake, it’s essential to use room temperature ingredients. Eggs and buttermilk blend more seamlessly into the batter when warmed, leading to a lighter and fluffier cake. Additionally, sifting your dry ingredients ensures there are no lumps, which contributes to a smooth and uniform batter. This attention to detail can dramatically improve the cake's texture and overall appearance.

Another key tip is to invest in quality food coloring. While standard red food coloring will work, vibrant gel-based food coloring yields a richer shade without altering the cake's texture. Also, don't skip the vinegar; it interacts with the baking soda to create a beautifully moist cake. These small adjustments can elevate your Red Velvet Cake from good to truly remarkable.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Storing your Red Velvet Cake properly can prolong its freshness and flavor. Once your cake is frosted, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to extend its shelf life further, consider refrigerating it. Just be sure to let it warm to room temperature before serving, as this brings back its delightful texture and flavor.

For an impressive presentation, consider garnishing your cake with chocolate shavings or fresh berries. These not only enhance the visual appeal but also add complementary flavors that elevate the entire dessert experience. Whether you serve it at a birthday party or enjoy it during a cozy night in, Red Velvet Cake is sure to delight everyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delightful cake.

For the Cake

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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk (if needed)

Make sure to have everything measured and ready.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect Red Velvet Cake.

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

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

In another bowl, mix the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy.

Add vanilla extract and milk, if needed, to achieve desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.

Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top of the first layer.

Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Cake!

Understanding Red Velvet Cake Ingredients

The foundational ingredients of Red Velvet Cake contribute significantly to its unique taste and texture. All-purpose flour provides structure, while sugar adds sweetness and moisture. Vegetable oil helps create a rich, tender crumb, and buttermilk introduces a subtle tang that balances the sweetness. This combination of ingredients is what makes Red Velvet Cake stand out amongst other chocolate desserts.

The vibrant red color that characterizes this cake comes primarily from the food coloring, but traditional recipes often relied on cocoa powder's natural reaction with acidic ingredients. The addition of vinegar and buttermilk not only enhances the cake's flavor but also ensures it’s light and fluffy. Understanding the role of each ingredient allows for better control over the final product.

Perfecting Your Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese frosting is the perfect match for the rich flavors of Red Velvet Cake. Its creamy texture and slight tang enhance the overall dessert without overpowering it. When making your frosting, ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature so they blend smoothly, achieving that velvety consistency that’s so desirable in a frosting.

If you're looking to customize your frosting, consider adding a hint of lemon zest or a splash of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor. This versatility allows you to tailor the frosting to your personal tastes while keeping the classic elements intact. The ability to balance the sweetness and tang is key, making each bite of your cake a delightful experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use less food coloring?

Yes, you can, but it may affect the traditional look of the cake.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.