Red Velvet Cake

Why Make This Recipe

Red velvet cake is a classic dessert that is loved by many. Its unique flavor, striking red color, and soft texture make it a favorite for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, and holidays. This recipe for the best red velvet cake is easy to follow and yields a moist and soft cake that everyone will enjoy. With a rich cream cheese frosting, every bite is delightful and satisfying.

How to Make Best Red Velvet Cake

Ingredients

• For Cake:

  • 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)
  • 3/4 cup vegetable oil (170g)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (113g)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/3 cup buttermilk (320g, mix 1 1/3 cup whole milk with 4 tsp vinegar or lemon juice to make your own)
  • 2 tsp vinegar
  • 1 tbsp gel red food color (may need up to 1.5 tbsp depending on the brand)
  • 1/4 cup boiling water (60g)
  • 2 1/2 tbsp Dutch processed cocoa powder (15g)
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour (390g)
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch (30g)
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp salt

• For Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 1 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (2.5 sticks or 283g)
  • 20 oz cream cheese, room temperature (2.5 8 oz blocks or 570g)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3-4 cups icing sugar, sifted (360 to 480g)

Directions

Red Velvet Cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, vegetable oil, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, vinegar, and red food color.
5. Alternate adding the buttermilk mixture and the dry ingredients (flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt) to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour in the boiling water and mix until smooth.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add in the vanilla extract and salt, mixing well.
3. Gradually add the sifted icing sugar until you reach your desired sweetness and thickness.

Assembly:

1. Place one layer of the cooled cake on a serving platter.
2. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
3. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
4. Decorate as desired.

How to Serve Best Red Velvet Cake

Serve slices of red velvet cake at room temperature. You can add extra cream cheese frosting on top or sprinkle some chocolate shavings for an additional touch. This cake pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Store Best Red Velvet Cake

Store any leftover red velvet cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Best Red Velvet Cake

• Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
• Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Use quality cocoa powder for a richer flavor.

Variation

For a fun twist, try adding a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers for an extra chocolatey flavor. You could also experiment with adding different flavors like almond or coffee extract for a unique taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of food coloring?
Yes, you can use liquid food coloring, but gel food coloring is recommended for better color concentration.

2. Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

3. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can easily make your own buttermilk by mixing regular milk with vinegar or lemon juice. Just let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Enjoy your delightful red velvet cake, perfect for any occasion!