Homemade Red Velvet Cake

 

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1½ cups vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp red food coloring (liquid or gel)
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

  For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)

    Ingredient Notes

    • Buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist and adds that signature tangy flavor.
    • Cocoa powder: Adds depth and balances the sweetness.
    • Vinegar + baking soda: Helps the cake rise and creates the fluffy texture red velvet is known for.
    • Red food coloring: Use gel for a deeper, vibrant color.

      Instructions

      Step 1: Prepare the Pans

      Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

      Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

      In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

      Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

      In a large mixing bowl, beat together oil, sugar, and eggs until light and smooth.
      Add buttermilk, vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring. Mix well.

      Step 4: Combine

      Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

      Step 5: Bake

      1. Divide the batter evenly between the pans.
      2. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
      3. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

      Step 6: Make the Frosting

      1. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until fluffy.
      2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
      3. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.

      Step 7: Assemble

      1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting.
      2. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
      3. Decorate with cake crumbs, white chocolate curls, or berries if desired.

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      Nutrition Facts (per slice)

      • Calories: 450
      • Protein: 5g
      • Carbohydrates: 54g
      • Fat: 22g
      • Sugar: 40g

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      Tips

      • Chill the cake before slicing for clean layers.
      • For deeper flavor, replace 1 tsp of vanilla with ½ tsp almond extract.
      • Use gel food coloring for a bold red hue without adding excess liquid.

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      Variations

      • Cupcakes: Make red velvet cupcakes by baking in a muffin tin for 18–20 minutes.
      • Chocolate Red Velvet: Add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder for richer flavor.
      • Keto Version: Substitute almond flour and erythritol for a low-carb version.

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      Serving Suggestion

      Serve this Homemade Red Velvet Cake chilled or at room temperature with a glass of cold milk or coffee. It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or any special occasion that deserves a stunning dessert centerpiece.