Red Velvet Birthday Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Red Velvet Birthday Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk; 3 large eggs; 2 tablespoons red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Elevate your celebrations with this stunning Red Velvet Birthday Cake, featuring moist layers of rich red velvet and luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion, this cake is sure to impress with its striking color and decadent flavor. Garnish with sprinkles or fresh berries for an extra touch of festivity!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-17T05:43:38.528Z

This Red Velvet Birthday Cake is not just a dessert; it's a centerpiece for your celebration. The rich red hue and velvety texture make it a favorite among cake lovers.

        Why You'll Love This Cake
        Moist and rich layers
Decadent cream cheese frosting
Visually stunning appearance
Perfectly festive for any occasion

      

Baking Tips for Success

When it comes to baking a Red Velvet Cake, precision is key. Ensure you measure your ingredients accurately, especially the flour and sugar, as variations can lead to a denser texture. Using room temperature ingredients, such as eggs and buttermilk, helps create a uniform batter that rises beautifully in the oven. Don’t forget to sift your dry ingredients to incorporate air, which contributes to the cake's fluffy consistency.

Also, consider investing in quality red food coloring for a vibrant color. Gel food coloring is recommended as it provides a more intense hue without adding extra liquid to your batter. Always double-check your baking powder and baking soda; expired leavening agents can result in a cake that doesn’t rise as intended, affecting both its appearance and texture.

Choosing the Perfect Toppings

While the cream cheese frosting is a classic pairing for Red Velvet, there are plenty of other options to explore. For a twist, try adding a chocolate ganache or a simple whipped cream topping infused with vanilla. These alternatives can elevate the flavor profile and add an unexpected element to your cake.

When garnishing this stunning cake, fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries not only add color but also offer a bright acidity that balances the sweetness of the frosting. Edible glitter or themed sprinkles can also enhance its festive appeal, making it a focal point on any celebration table.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storing your Red Velvet Cake properly is essential to maintaining its moist and soft texture. After frosting, keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. If you anticipate leftovers, consider slicing the cake and storing individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap for easy access later. The cake can last in the refrigerator for up to a week, retaining its delicious flavor for those who wish to indulge over several days.

For serving, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the frosting to soften slightly, making it easier to cut through the layers. Pair each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to amplify the indulgence and create a delightful contrast of flavors.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
3 large eggs
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon white vinegar
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons cocoa powder

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)

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

Instructions

Prepare the Batter

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks 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 and vanilla, beating until light and fluffy.
If the frosting is too thick, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter.
Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top of the first layer.
Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
Garnish with sprinkles or fresh berries, if desired.

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

Nutritional Information

While Red Velvet Cake is certainly a treat best enjoyed at special moments, understanding its nutritional aspects can help you share it appropriately. On average, a slice (1/12 of the cake) contains approximately 350 calories, along with carbohydrates and sugars that are typical of baked desserts. Consider cutting the slices small for a more moderated treat, or serving at gatherings where sharing can occur.

For those looking to balance indulgence with health, you can explore alternative ingredients in the cake, such as substituting part of the oil with applesauce or using a lighter cream cheese spread for the frosting. These small adjustments can help create a cake that's more in line with dietary preferences without sacrificing too much flavor.

Customization Ideas

One of the most delightful aspects of baking is the ability to customize your cake to reflect personal tastes. For a chocolate lover's version of Red Velvet, consider adding cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor. You can also experiment with flavoring the frosting by adding extracts like almond or orange for a unique twist.

Moreover, if you're interested in a more modern take, adding layers of fruit fillings such as strawberry or raspberry can introduce an exciting flavor contrast. This not only makes for a more complex taste experience but also enhances the visual appeal of your cake. Don't hesitate to get creative with your decorations, turning your Red Velvet Birthday Cake into a work of art.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

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