Red Velvet Cake Recipe
This red velvet cake recipe creates a moist, tender cake with cream cheese frosting. Perfect for Valentine's Day, birthdays, and holidays. Learn how to make this Southern classic dessert with simple ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring liquid or gel
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk room temperature
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 ounces cream cheese softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- Sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- Beat sugar and butter together in a large bowl for 3 to 4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in red food coloring and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
- Add one-third of the flour mixture to the batter and mix on low speed. Add half the buttermilk and mix. Repeat, ending with flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Combine vinegar and baking soda in a small bowl. Fold the foaming mixture into the batter quickly.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating well. Add vanilla and beat until fluffy.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top. Add second layer and frost the top and sides.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve. Bring to room temperature 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.