Red Velvet Layer Cake
Indulge in the irresistible charm of a homemade Red Velvet Layer Cake, a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. This classic treat boasts tender, velvety layers with a hint of cocoa and a vibrant red hue, created with just the right touch of red food coloring. The cake’s moist texture pairs perfectly with the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting, crafted from softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and powdered sugar for a lusciously smooth finish. Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or any special celebration, this two-layer showstopper is easy to prepare in just about an hour, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Garnish with cake crumbs or sprinkles for an extra festive touch, and serve up this slice of heaven to delight a crowd of twelve guests. Whether you’re seeking the best red velvet cake recipe or a stunning dessert centerpiece, this recipe delivers a timeless classic that’s sure to impress.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar.
Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until well combined and smooth.
Evenly divide the batter between the prepared cake pans and smooth out the tops.
Bake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully combined. Mix in the vanilla extract and beat until fluffy.
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thick, even layer of frosting on top.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing as desired.
Decorate with additional frosting, sprinkles, or cake crumbs, if desired. Slice and serve!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
840 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 48.3 g | 62% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.0 g | 105% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 11.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 117 mg | 39% | |
| Sodium | 425 mg | 18% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 97.0 g | 35% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.0 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 75.8 g | ||
| Protein | 7.1 g | 14% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 74 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 1.2 mg | 7% | |
| Potassium | 118 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
