Red Velvet Cake

Step into the world of decadence with our irresistible Red Velvet Cake recipe! This iconic dessert is a true showstopper, boasting a velvety texture and a hint of cocoa, all crowned with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just indulging in a sweet moment, this Red Velvet Cake promises to be the star of the show on your dessert table.

Yield and Total Time: Yield: One 9-inch cake Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Red Velvet Cake:

• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 and 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 and 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 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. This is the foundation of your red velvet dreams!
3. In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. Whisk until well combined, creating a vibrant red mixture.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be mesmerized as the batter transforms into a rich, velvety consistency.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. While the cakes are baking, let’s whip up the Cream Cheese Frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and heavenly.
7. Once the cakes have cooled completely, generously frost the top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake, creating a luscious red velvet masterpiece.
8. Admire your creation – the vibrant red layers and creamy frosting make this cake a true work of art.

Summary:

There you have it – a Red Velvet Cake that’s not just a dessert but a sensory experience. Share it with friends, family, or enjoy it solo; either way, every bite is a celebration. Revel in the velvety richness and the indulgent creaminess, making each slice a sweet symphony of flavors. Enjoy the magic!

Photo by: Ethan Calabrese