Red Velvet Birthday Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Red Velvet Birthday Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cocoa powder; 1 ½ 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; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Celebrate any occasion with this stunning Red Velvet Birthday Cake, featuring layers of moist, rich red velvet complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for birthdays or special gatherings, this cake not only looks beautiful but is also irresistibly delicious, making it a favorite for cake lovers everywhere. Bake this show-stopping dessert and delight your guests with its vibrant color and festive flavor!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-17T02:33:30.243Z

This Red Velvet Birthday Cake is not just a feast for the eyes, but also for the taste buds. The cake is dense yet moist, created by a combination of ingredients that work together to form the perfect texture. The cream cheese frosting adds the perfect tangy sweetness to each bite.

A Classic Treat for Any Occasion

Red Velvet Cake has become a timeless classic that is synonymous with celebration. Its striking color and luxurious texture make it an eye-catcher on any dessert table, ensuring your event stands out. This cake isn’t just about appearance; its unique flavor profile combines a hint of cocoa with a moist crumb that leaves everyone wanting more. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or any special gathering, this cake is bound to impress your guests.

This Red Velvet Birthday Cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. The rich cream cheese frosting offers a perfect balance to the slightly tangy cake, creating a symphony of flavors. The combination of sweet and tangy in each bite highlights the best aspects of both the cake and the frosting, making every slice an irresistible delight.

Tips for Perfect Results

When baking, precise measurements are crucial. Make sure to use a kitchen scale for the most accurate results, especially for ingredients like flour and sugar. Sifting your dry ingredients can also help incorporate air, leading to a fluffier cake. Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature; this step promotes better mixing and helps shortens the cake's baking time to achieve that perfect rise.

Another important tip is to keep an eye on your cake while it bakes. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready. Allowing the cake to cool properly in the pan prevents it from breaking when turned out, giving you that flawless, beautiful layer.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your Red Velvet Birthday Cake is baked and frosted, you might wonder about storage. If you have leftovers, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To maintain its freshness, you can wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the container. This method helps keep the cake moist and delicious for longer.

For serving, consider garnishing your cake with fresh berries or chocolate shavings to enhance its appearance. A sprinkle of edible gold or silver dust can elevate the cake, making it even more festive. Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience that your guests won't soon forget.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1 ½ 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

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
16 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In another bowl, combine the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, and mix until fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top of the first and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. Decorate as desired.

Slice and enjoy!

FAQs About Red Velvet Cake

One common question is, 'What gives Red Velvet cake its flavor?' The unique taste comes from the combination of cocoa powder and the slight acidity from buttermilk and vinegar. This acid not only helps activate the cocoa but also adds a wonderful tanginess, making each bite intriguing and delicious.

Another frequently asked question is, 'Can I use a different type of frosting?' Absolutely! While the traditional cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully, you can switch it up with a simple buttercream or even a chocolate ganache for a delicious twist. Just ensure that whatever frosting you choose complements the rich flavor of the cake.

Perfect Pairings

Consider pairing your Red Velvet Birthday Cake with a rich cup of coffee or a glass of chilled milk. The smoothness of the milk balances the sweetness of the cake, while a robust coffee can enhance the chocolate notes present in the cake. This combination makes for a delightful dessert experience and is perfect after dinner.

For those looking to explore flavor pairings, a fruit compote or coulis can add a fresh zest that complements the richness of the cake. Strawberries, raspberries, or cherries work exceptionally well and provide a beautiful contrast in color and flavor, making each serving feel even more special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, cake flour can be used for a lighter texture.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

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