Red Velvet Cake Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Make Classic Red Velvet Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Red velvet cake is a timeless dessert loved for its vibrant color, velvety texture, and subtle cocoa flavor. With its tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake is a favorite for celebrations and everyday indulgences alike. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a stunning red velvet cake that will wow your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons red food coloring
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans

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

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Whisk to combine and set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the oil and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 5: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix well.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk mixture.
Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—avoid overmixing.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake in the preheated oven 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 them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Smooth the frosting with a spatula or create decorative swirls.

Step 10: Decorate and Serve

Optionally, garnish the cake with red velvet crumbs, sprinkles, or fresh berries.
Chill the cake for 30 minutes to set the frosting before slicing and serving.

Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Cake

Use Buttermilk: It’s essential for the cake's tangy flavor and tender crumb. If you don’t have buttermilk, make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Mix until just combined.
Chill the Frosting: If the frosting becomes too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vibrant and Stunning: The bold red color is a showstopper.
Deliciously Moist: The combination of buttermilk and oil ensures the perfect texture.
Tangy and Sweet: The cream cheese frosting adds a perfect balance to the rich cake.

This red velvet cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration centerpiece! Its striking appearance and irresistible taste make it a recipe you’ll want to keep for every special occasion. Give it a try and enjoy this classic treat with a modern twist!