Red Velvet Cake Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Red Velvet Cake Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tablespoons red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Highlighted under: Family Baking Recipes

Indulge in the rich and velvety taste of Red Velvet Cake paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or special occasions.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T23:58:28.378Z

This Red Velvet Cake is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavor and texture. The combination of cocoa and buttermilk gives it a unique taste that pairs perfectly with the tangy cream cheese frosting.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh cream cheese
Moist and tender crumb with a vibrant red hue
Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just because

      

The Allure of Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience. Its striking red color is visually stunning, making it a showstopper at any gathering. This cake has a unique flavor profile that combines the richness of chocolate with a hint of tanginess from the buttermilk. The result is a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Every bite offers a delightful contrast of flavors, making it an irresistible choice for both cake lovers and those looking to impress guests.

What sets Red Velvet Cake apart is its versatility. Whether it's a birthday celebration, an anniversary, or a simple family gathering, this cake fits seamlessly into any occasion. The added cream cheese frosting enhances the cake's flavor, providing a creamy, slightly tangy balance that complements the cake's sweetness. Together, they create a harmonious blend that is hard to resist.

Perfecting Your Baking Skills

Baking a Red Velvet Cake might seem daunting, but with the right tips and techniques, anyone can master it. The key to success lies in measuring your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when it comes to flour and sugar. This ensures that your cake will have the right structure and texture. Remember to sift your dry ingredients as it helps to aerate the flour, resulting in a lighter cake.

Another important aspect is the mixing process. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Also, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature; this allows for better emulsification, resulting in a smoother batter and a moister cake. With these tips in mind, you’re on your way to baking the perfect Red Velvet Cake.

Storing and Serving Tips

Once your Red Velvet Cake is baked and frosted, proper storage is essential to maintaining its freshness. If not serving immediately, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, which can extend its life to about a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

When it comes to serving, consider pairing your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The coolness of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm spices of the cake, enhancing the overall indulgence. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh berries or chocolate shavings. These additions not only elevate the presentation but also complement the rich flavors of the cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.

In another bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix well.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined and fluffy.

Add the vanilla extract and milk if needed to reach desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate.

Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.

Place the second layer on top and frost the sides and top of the cake.

Chill the cake for about 30 minutes to set the frosting before serving.

Variations to Try

While the classic Red Velvet Cake is a timeless favorite, there are several variations you can try to add a unique twist. For instance, consider incorporating some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture. You can also experiment with different types of frosting, such as a whipped cream or chocolate ganache, to change up the flavor profile.

Another fun variation includes creating Red Velvet Cake cupcakes. Simply pour the batter into muffin tins and adjust the baking time accordingly. Top with frosting and sprinkles for a delightful treat that's easy to share. These adaptations not only keep the traditional recipe fresh but also allow for creativity in the kitchen.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned bakers can encounter challenges when making Red Velvet Cake. One common mistake is not allowing the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This can lead to the frosting melting and sliding off, ruining the presentation. Always ensure your cakes are completely cool on a wire rack before you proceed to frost them.

Another pitfall is using too much red food coloring. While you want the cake to have that vibrant hue, overdoing it can affect the flavor. Stick to the recommended amount in the recipe for the best balance. Lastly, remember that baking is a science; follow the instructions closely for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost them on the day you plan to serve.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the un-frosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.