Best Red Velvet Cake

Name: Best Red Velvet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon 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 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the ultimate dessert with this Best Red Velvet Cake recipe. This classic cake boasts a rich, velvety texture and is beautifully complemented by a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or simply a sweet treat, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and is sure to impress your family and friends. Make every occasion special with this irresistible red velvet masterpiece!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-17T06:00:54.402Z

A Classic with a Modern Twist

Red velvet cake has long been a beloved dessert, dating back to the 1920s. Its striking red hue and flavorful combination of ingredients have made it a showstopper at celebrations. This recipe preserves the traditional elements of red velvet while incorporating modern baking techniques for a foolproof result. The velvety texture and subtle cocoa flavor paired with cream cheese frosting create an exquisite dessert that carves out a space in both rustic and contemporary kitchens.

This cake isn’t just about looks; it has a flavor profile that’s rich yet balanced. The tang from the buttermilk, the sweetness of sugar, and the hint of cocoa contrast beautifully, making each bite a delightful experience. Paired with the creamy, slightly tart cream cheese frosting, it transforms into a truly decadent treat perfect for any occasion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or holiday gathering, this Best Red Velvet Cake is sure to impress. Its vibrant color and luxurious taste elevate any celebration. Serve it as the centerpiece of a dessert table or surprise your guests with a homemade treat after dinner. Its versatility and appeal make it a go-to recipe that will be requested time and again.

Not only is it perfect for formal events, but it also makes for a delightful everyday dessert. Sharing a slice with friends or family during a casual gathering or over coffee can turn a simple moment into something special. This cake encourages connection and joy, making it much more than just a dessert.

Tips for Success

To ensure your cake rises beautifully, make sure that your ingredients are at room temperature. This includes eggs and buttermilk, which help in achieving that light and fluffy texture. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter after combining wet and dry ingredients, as this can lead to a dense cake instead of a light sponge.

Another important tip is to accurately measure the ingredients. Level off dry ingredients with a knife instead of packing them into the measuring cup to achieve the right balance of flavors. Finally, don’t rush the cooling process; allowing your cakes to cool completely before frosting is crucial to prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon 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

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

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

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Cake

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

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

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.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well blended.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.

Top with the second layer of cake and frost the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

Decorate as desired and serve.

Enjoy your delicious Best Red Velvet Cake!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

To maintain its freshness, store any leftover red velvet cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed for up to five days, though it rarely lasts that long! For longer storage, consider freezing slices. Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be thawed at room temperature when you're ready for a sweet treat.

When serving, consider pairing this cake with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a complete experience. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent dessert. A sprinkle of chocolate shavings or a few fresh berries can also enhance the presentation.

Incorporating Variations

If you’re looking to customize your red velvet cake, consider adding a hint of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor further. You can also experiment with additional flavorings, such as almond extract or orange zest. These subtle changes can provide a unique spin on the classic recipe while still preserving its essential character.

For a fun twist, try layering the cake with additional fillings, like raspberry jam or a chocolate ganache. These combinations can create complex flavors that surprise and delight your guests. Don't hesitate to get creative; the best part of baking is making it your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, buttermilk adds a unique tanginess to the cake. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake for longer storage.