There’s something truly enchanting about the vibrant red of a homemade Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. The moment the rich, velvety batter hits the mixing bowl, I’m reminded of the joy that comes from baking—it’s a therapy session wrapped in flour and sugar! I stumbled upon this delightful recipe when I was seeking a way to impress my friends at a gathering. Who knew that a cake so striking could also be irresistibly delicious?
As the oven fills with the sweet aroma of baked goodness and a hint of cocoa, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement wash over me. You see, this isn’t just any cake; it’s a crowd-pleaser that turns ordinary occasions into memorable celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party or simply indulging in an afternoon treat, this Red Velvet Cake stands tall as a showstopper—soft, moist layers lovingly embraced by a creamy, tangy frosting. Best of all? With just a handful of pantry staples, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to wow anyone who takes a bite. Let’s dive into this baking adventure together!
Why You'll Love This Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- This Red Velvet Cake is incredibly easy to make, allowing bakers of all levels to enjoy its decadent flavor without stress.
- The rich taste of cocoa combined with the tangy cream cheese frosting creates a delightful balance that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Its stunning red hue makes for a visually attractive centerpiece at any gathering, ensuring your dessert stands out.
- Versatile enough to be served at birthdays, holidays, or simply as a treat any day, this cake is sure to please any crowd.
Red Velvet Cake Ingredients
Discover the essentials for a luscious Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
For the Cake
- 3 cups cake flour – helps create a light and fluffy texture for your cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – acts as a leavening agent to give the cake its rise.
- 2 Tablespoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder – adds a subtle chocolatey flavor that complements the red color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances the overall flavors, balancing the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter – provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- 2 cups granulated sugar – sweetens the cake while contributing to its tender crumb.
- 1 cup canola or vegetable oil – keeps the cake moist and gives it a perfect texture.
- 4 large eggs – bind the ingredients together and add structure to the cake.
- 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract – infuses a warm, inviting aroma into the batter.
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar – reacts with baking soda for a lighter cake and adds a touch of tang.
- liquid or gel red food coloring – essential for that iconic vibrant hue; gel tends to give better color without excess liquid.
- 1 cup buttermilk – contributes moisture and a slight tanginess, making the cake extra tender.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 16 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese – ensures a rich, creamy consistency for your frosting.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter – blends perfectly into the frosting, adding smoothness.
- 5 cups confectioners’ sugar – sweetens and thickens the frosting, creating that perfect creamy texture.
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – enhances the sweetness while providing a lovely aroma.
- pinch of salt – balances sweetness and elevates the flavors of the frosting.
How to Make Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
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Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans, ensuring they’re ready for that gorgeous red batter.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. This blend lays the foundation for your cake’s structure.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air, ensuring a delightful texture.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the oil, eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, vinegar, and buttermilk to the butter mixture. Mix well until everything is beautifully combined and smooth, setting the stage for your velvety cake.
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Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid over-mixing to ensure your cake remains tender.
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Pour and Smooth: Pour the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans and gently smooth the tops with a spatula. This will help the cake rise evenly for perfect layers.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the cake pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, they’re ready!
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Cool Cakes: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare Frosting: For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter in a bowl until smooth and creamy. This base will be the heavenly topping for your cake.
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Add Sugar and Flavor: Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing until creamy. Finish by incorporating vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
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Frost and Enjoy: Once the cakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting, decorating as you desire.
Optional: Garnish with chocolate shavings or fresh berries for an extra touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
There’s nothing quite like the sweet, velvety allure of a homemade red velvet cake, and to create a truly memorable meal, let’s explore some delightful pairings that will elevate your dessert experience.
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Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the smooth and creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake, adding a refreshing contrast.
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Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries add a zesty pop, enhancing the cake’s rich flavors while providing a bright, fresh element that captivates the palate.
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Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling a warm, decadent chocolate ganache over each slice adds an indulgent touch, creating a heavenly combination of chocolate and cream cheese flavors.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso brings out the deep cocoa notes of the cake, making each bite even more satisfying and comforting.
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Coconut Cream: Light and airy coconut cream can add a tropical twist, bringing new life to this iconic dessert while complementing the cake’s rich cream cheese frosting.
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Lemon Tart: For an unexpected yet delightful contrast, serve a light lemon tart alongside; its tartness cuts through the sweetness and refreshes the palate beautifully.
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Sparkling Rosé: A chilled glass of sparkling rosé adds a celebratory touch that pairs wonderfully with the cake, enhancing its vibrant hue and rich textures for a festive feel.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: An elegant addition, these sweet treats echo the decadent vibes of the red velvet while introducing luscious chocolate flavors in each bite.
Red Velvet Cake Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful cake; the possibilities are endless!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute cake flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum for better texture. It’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions!
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Non-Dairy: Use dairy-free butter and lactose-free cream cheese in your frosting. This swap will still give you a creamy, dreamy topping that everyone will enjoy!
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Chocolate Lovers: Add a cup of dark chocolate chips to the batter for an extra burst of chocolate flavor. It makes the cake even more decadent!
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Zesty Twist: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon in the batter and frosting for a refreshing citrusy note. This adds a bright contrast to the richness of the cake.
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Nutty Delight: Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a delightful crunch. The nuts pair beautifully with the soft texture of the cake.
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Spicy Kick: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper in the batter. Just a hint can elevate the cake with a surprising warmth.
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Fruit Infusion: Layer fresh raspberries or strawberries between the cake layers before frosting. The fruity burst adds freshness that complements the richness superbly!
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Layered Elegance: Create an impressive multi-layered cake by baking thin layers in round pans. Stack them high for a show-stopping centerpiece at your next celebration!
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting options are perfect for busy home cooks wanting to save time! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Simply bake the cake, allow it to cool completely, and wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This will help maintain moisture and prevent them from drying out. The frosting can also be made up to 24 hours ahead; store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply bring the frosting to room temperature and give it a quick stir before generously frosting the cake. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Room Temperature: Keep your Red Velvet Cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its freshness and moisture.
Fridge: For longer storage, place the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze the frosted or unfrosted layers for up to 3 months. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. For frosted cakes, let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving to regain its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Red Velvet Cake, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar, which helps incorporate air for a lighter texture.
- A common mistake is overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients, so mix until just combined to keep the cake tender.
- For the cream cheese frosting, use full-fat cream cheese for the richest, smoothest texture, and make sure it’s softened to avoid lumps.
- When baking, always preheat your oven, as placing the cake batter in a cool oven can lead to uneven baking and a dense texture.
Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose eggs that are fresh and at room temperature to aid in merging with the other ingredients. When selecting butter, make sure it’s softened but still cool to the touch for optimal creaming with sugar. As for your red food coloring, I recommend gel over liquid for a more vibrant hue without excess moisture.
How should I store my Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Very good question! If you plan to enjoy your cake within 2 days, keep it tightly covered at room temperature. For longer enjoyment, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture!
Can I freeze the Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Of course! You can freeze either the frosted or unfrosted layers for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cake in the fridge overnight, then let it sit at room temperature for about an hour if frosted to restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my cake comes out too dry?
Ah, a common concern! If you find your cake a bit dry, it could be due to overbaking. Always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Another tip is to ensure your oven is calibrated correctly, as temperature variations can lead to drier cakes. If you encounter a dry cake but wish to salvage it, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of simple syrup to add moisture and sweetness!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Red Velvet Cake contains gluten due to the cake flour, and it’s also a great idea to be cautious about dairy ingredients for those with lactose intolerance. If you’re baking for someone with a gluten allergy, consider using a gluten-free flour blend. Alternatively, dairy-free butter and cream cheese can easily replace their counterparts to make the cake vegan-friendly.
Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add the oil, eggs, vanilla extract, red food coloring, vinegar, and buttermilk to the butter mixture.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans and gently smooth the tops.
- Place the cake pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
- Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
- For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing until creamy. Incorporate vanilla extract and pinch of salt.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting.
