Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the rich, velvety goodness of this Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake recipe. Featuring layers of moist, tender cake infused with buttermilk and a hint of cocoa, this dessert is perfect for celebrations or as an indulgent treat. Topped with cream cheese frosting, it's sure to delight your family and friends with its stunning color and delicious flavor. Simple yet impressive, this cake is a classic that will never go out of style.
This Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake has been a beloved dessert for generations, known for its vibrant color and sumptuous texture. It’s often served at special occasions, making it a staple at birthdays, weddings, and holiday gatherings.
A Classic Dessert for Any Occasion
Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake has long been a favorite at celebrations, from birthdays to anniversaries. Its stunning red color makes it visually striking, while its rich flavor profile offers a delightful contrast between the tanginess of buttermilk and subtle cocoa notes. This cake is not just about aesthetics; it also delivers a soft, moist texture that keeps guests wanting more. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply indulging on a quiet afternoon, this dessert brings a touch of elegance to any table.
What sets this cake apart is its versatility. You can serve it as is or elevate it with a variety of toppings and fillings. Complimenting the cream cheese frosting with fresh fruits or a drizzle of chocolate ganache can further enhance its appeal. For themed events, consider adding colored sprinkles or edible flowers for a festive flair. Experimentation is welcome, allowing you to customize the cake to your preferences, making it uniquely yours.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Cake
When baking the Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake, precision is key. Ensuring that your ingredients are at room temperature leads to better integration and a flawless batter. Additionally, it's important to measure your flour accurately; too much flour can result in a dense cake. Use the spoon and level method: spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for the perfect amount.
Don't forget to let your cake layers cool completely before frosting. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, beautiful finish. While waiting, consider using this time to make any adjustments to your frosting, such as adding a touch of lemon juice for extra flavor. Remember, your creativity is the limit when it comes to decoration. Don't shy away from using kitchen tools like a spatula or a piping bag to create stunning designs.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients before you start baking:
For the Cake
- 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
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
Instructions
Follow these steps to achieve the perfect Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake:
Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to reach the desired consistency.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.
Let the cake set for a few minutes before serving to allow the frosting to firm up.
Frequently Asked Questions
One common question about Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake is whether substitutes can be used for buttermilk. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, a simple solution is to mix one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This will mimic the acidity and moisture that real buttermilk provides, ensuring your cake remains delicious and tender.
Another frequent inquiry revolves around the amount of food coloring used. While traditional recipes call for a significant amount to achieve the characteristic crimson hue, you can adjust the quantity based on your preference. Using natural, plant-based food colorings is another great option for a healthier alternative that still delivers beautiful results.
Variations to Try
For those seeking a unique twist on the classic Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake, consider incorporating alternate extracts or flavors. Almond extract can add an earthy richness, whereas adding a hint of espresso powder can deepen the chocolate flavor. Feel free to experiment with layering different flavors, too; perhaps a cream cheese filling with crushed pecans, or a seasonal twist with pumpkin spice during fall.
You could also transform the cake into cupcakes! Just adjust the baking time to around 18-22 minutes, and you'll have individual portions perfect for parties or casual gatherings. This adaptation not only makes serving easier but allows guests to take home a sweet treat as a memorable favor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, using cake flour will give your cake a lighter texture.
→ What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can make your own buttermilk by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for about 10 minutes.
Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake
Experience the rich, velvety goodness of this Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake recipe. Featuring layers of moist, tender cake infused with buttermilk and a hint of cocoa, this dessert is perfect for celebrations or as an indulgent treat. Topped with cream cheese frosting, it's sure to delight your family and friends with its stunning color and delicious flavor. Simple yet impressive, this cake is a classic that will never go out of style.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 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
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In a large bowl, beat together oil and sugar until combined. Add buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk to reach the desired consistency.
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 3g