Best Red Velvet Cake

Name: Best Red Velvet Cake
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 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon red food coloring; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich, velvety texture and stunning crimson hue of this Best Red Velvet Cake recipe. Perfectly balanced with a hint of cocoa and topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is ideal for birthdays, weddings, or any special occasion where you want to impress. Discover the secret to achieving that signature moistness and breathtaking presentation that will leave everyone craving more.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-17T05:43:31.664Z

This Red Velvet Cake has become a classic for a reason. Its unique color and flavor profile have made it a go-to dessert for many celebrations.

The Unique Flavor Profile

The beauty of Red Velvet Cake lies in its unique flavor. It’s not just about the striking red color; the combination of cocoa powder and buttermilk delivers a mild chocolate taste that perfectly balances sweetness and acidity. This harmonious blend of flavors elevates the cake, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Additionally, the vanilla adds a touch of warmth that complements the cake’s rich texture.

Many people mistakenly think that Red Velvet is simply a vanilla cake dyed red, but this recipe showcases its distinct taste profile. The slight tang from the buttermilk and the subtle earthiness of the cocoa create a sophisticated balance, allowing it to stand out among other desserts. Each bite is a delightful experience that leaves an impression of luxury and indulgence.

Perfecting the Texture

Achieving the ideal texture in a Red Velvet Cake is essential for that wow factor. This recipe incorporates vegetable oil, which helps in creating a moist crumb that melts in your mouth. It also uses buttermilk, a secret ingredient that tenderizes the flour and adds moisture. The result is a cake that stays fresh and delicious for days, making it perfect for preparations ahead of special occasions.

Baking the layers correctly is also crucial. Overbaking can lead to a dry cake, so it's vital to keep an eye on your oven. The toothpick test is your best friend here; it should come out clean but not dry. Following these tips ensures you get that signature velvety texture everyone adores.

Frosting: The Crowning Glory

No Red Velvet Cake is complete without a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. The tangy sweetness of the frosting complements the cake beautifully, enhancing its overall flavor. This frosting is easy to make—just mix softened cream cheese and butter, then whip in powdered sugar and vanilla for a light, fluffy finish. This combination not only elevates the taste but also helps in balancing the cake’s sweetness.

To achieve a professional-looking finish, ensure your frosting is smooth and spreadable. Use a spatula to create swirls or curves, giving your cake an elegant presentation. Remember, the way you frost your cake can impact the overall dining experience, so don’t rush this essential step. Enjoy the process of creating a beautiful dessert that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

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

Frosting Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, and vanilla until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between two greased 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy. Adjust consistency with a little milk if necessary.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Allow the cake to set for a few minutes before serving for best results.

Tips for Success

When making Red Velvet Cake, using room temperature ingredients is vital. Eggs, buttermilk, and butter should be at room temperature to ensure they blend seamlessly into the batter. This tip helps in creating a homogeneous mixture that contributes to the cake's texture and rise, ultimately resulting in a fluffier cake.

Don’t skip the food coloring! The right amount of red food coloring not only gives the cake its signature look but also enhances the overall experience. If you prefer a natural option, consider using beet juice as a substitute, though it may alter the flavor slightly. The vibrant color is part of the allure and should not be compromised.

Storing and Serving

To keep your Red Velvet Cake moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving, as this will amplify the flavors and improve the texture.

When serving this cake, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy elements will enhance the cake and provide a delightful contrast. Additionally, garnishing with fresh berries can add a pop of color and a refreshing burst of flavor, making your dessert not just delicious, but visually stunning as well.

Variations to Explore

While the classic Red Velvet Cake is a showstopper as is, consider experimenting with variations. You can incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a holiday twist. Another twist is to add chocolate chips to the batter or make a layered cake with different flavors, like vanilla or chocolate, for a delightful surprise with every slice.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This ensures that everyone can enjoy this delightful cake without compromising flavor or texture. Remember, baking is an art, so feel free to get creative while staying true to the essence of the Red Velvet experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use less food coloring?

You can adjust the amount of food coloring to your preference, but the signature red color may not be as vibrant.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.