Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you are searching for a dessert that perfectly blends a rich, moist texture with a vibrant color and a tangy sweetness, this Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a classic showstopper, combining velvety cocoa-infused layers with that irresistible, creamy frosting that always brings everyone back for seconds. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a heavenly slice, this beloved cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe starts with simple, trusty ingredients that each play a vital role in making this cake unforgettable. From the flour providing structure to the buttermilk’s tenderizing effect, each component brings something special to your final creation.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the foundation of the cake, ensuring a soft, sturdy crumb you’ll adore.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise gently and adds lightness to the texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with the vinegar for that classic red velvet lift and softness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder: Adds just a hint of chocolate richness without overpowering the red velvet charm.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly for that classic dessert feel.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Infuses moisture and tenderness with a slight tang that complements the frosting.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender for days.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and help achieve the perfect texture.
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring: Delivers the iconic red hue that makes this cake so visually stunning.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar: Reacts with baking soda for lightness and adds a subtle tang.
• 4 ounces cream cheese: The heart of the frosting with its creamy, tangy personality.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Blends with cream cheese for a rich, luscious frosting base.

How to Make Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare for Baking

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans with butter or non-stick spray and dust them lightly with flour. This step ensures your beautiful cake layers will come out perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Sifting is key here to avoid lumps and to make sure everything blends smoothly into the batter.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and eggs until the mixture is silky and fully combined. This creates the luscious base that will keep the cake tender and moist.

Step 4: Add Color and Flavor

Bring in the magic by adding your red food coloring and vanilla extract. Stir well until you have a vibrant, eye-catching red batter that hints at the deliciousness to come.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the wet, mixing gently but thoroughly. Be careful not to overmix—stop when the batter is smooth and streak-free for the best texture.

Step 6: Activate the Rise

Fold in the white vinegar gently. This little ingredient sets off a reaction with the baking soda that will help your cakes rise beautifully and become delightfully fluffy.

Step 7: Fill the Pans Evenly

Divide the batter between your prepared pans and spread it evenly. Even layers mean more elegant slices and balanced baking.

Step 8: Bake Until Perfect

Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes; if it comes out clean, they’re ready to come out and cool.

Step 9: Cool Your Cakes

Let the cakes cool for about 10 minutes in the pans, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here makes sure the frosting stays smooth and doesn’t melt.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. This luscious spread will complement your cake’s flavor perfectly.

Step 11: Sweeten and Whip the Frosting

Slowly add powdered sugar, beating to combine, then whip on high speed until your frosting is fluffy and cloud-like—ideal for frosting your cake with style.

Step 12: Assemble the Cake Layers

Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate and cover with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. Spread it evenly to the edges for a neat finish.

Step 13: Add the Second Layer

Carefully place your second cake layer on top, pressing gently. This will create a balanced and beautiful two-tiered effect.

Step 14: Frost the Outside

Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing the sides and top as much as possible for a clean, professional look.

Step 15: Chill Before Serving

Pop your finished cake into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up the frosting. This extra step helps achieve a neat slice with every cut.

Step 16: Time to Enjoy!

Bring your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe to the table. Revel in the moist, velvety layers paired with the sweet and tangy frosting—a real treat for your taste buds!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes is the perfect way to personalize your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, add a burst of fresh flavor and a pop of color that looks stunning. Alternatively, a sprinkle of cake crumbs or a dusting of cocoa powder can add texture and visual appeal for an elegant finish.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement but don’t compete. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream enhances the creamy frosting and enhances the indulgence. For brunch or afternoon tea, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a mild black tea rounds out the experience perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic round cake presentation! You can bake the batter in cupcakes for individual servings that are easier to share. Or, layer the cake in a trifle dish alongside whipped cream and fresh fruit for a stunning and shareable dessert. Even stacking mini layers with decorative piping brings a whimsical charm to your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your cake, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure it’s well covered to keep the frosting creamy and prevent the cake from drying out. This way, every slice stays just as delicious as day one.

Freezing

You can freeze your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe either as a whole or in individual slices. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

For the best experience, allow frozen slices to thaw properly rather than reheating, as warming cream cheese frosting can affect its texture. If you prefer warm cake, gently microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds before serving, but keep in mind the frosting may soften significantly.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While you could substitute regular milk, the buttermilk is what gives the cake its tender crumb and subtle tang. If you don’t have buttermilk, try mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

Why is vinegar used in this Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?

The vinegar reacts with the baking soda to create carbon dioxide bubbles that help the cake rise and become fluffy. It also enhances the cake’s subtle tang, perfectly pairing with the cream cheese frosting.

What’s the best way to achieve the red color naturally?

For the classic red, most recipes rely on red food coloring, like in this Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. If you prefer natural options, beetroot powder is a good alternative, though it may alter the flavor slightly.

How long will the cake stay fresh after baking?

This cake is best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days when stored properly in the fridge. Thanks to the moist texture and cream cheese frosting, it holds up well but starts to lose freshness after that.

Can I make this cake vegan or dairy-free?

With some ingredient swaps—like using non-dairy milk and vegan cream cheese—you can adapt this recipe, but it may affect both texture and flavor. Experiment carefully to get that perfect balance.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking a Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe from scratch—it’s a celebration of comfort, color, and rich flavor all rolled into one unforgettable dessert. I encourage you to dive in and try this recipe; once you do, I guarantee it will become one of your favorites to make again and again, whether for holidays, birthdays, or those days you simply deserve a little extra sweetness.

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