Red Velvet Cake with Extra Icing!

Name: Red Velvet Cake with Extra Icing!
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 sugar; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tbsp red food coloring; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp cocoa powder; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp heavy cream (if needed for consistency)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This luscious Red Velvet Cake is a showstopper, featuring layers of rich, moist red velvet adorned with an extra generous swirl of cream cheese icing. Perfect for celebrations or just because, this cake balances subtle chocolate notes with a hint of vanilla, making it irresistible. Elevate your dessert game with this stunning, eye-catching treat that’s sure to impress your guests and create lasting memories.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-17T06:00:50.611Z

This delightful Red Velvet Cake is not only about its visual appeal but also about its incredible taste. Perfect for festive occasions or a simple family gathering!

The History of Red Velvet Cake

Red velvet cake has an intriguing history that dates back to the 1920s. Its origins can be traced to the famous recipe from the Adams Extract Company, which popularized the vivid red color of the cake. Initially, the cake was simply a vanilla cake with cocoa powder added, resulting in its unique flavor and reddish hue. The red velvet cake became especially popular in the Southern United States, often served at special occasions, including weddings and holidays.

As time progressed, cream cheese frosting became the icing of choice for red velvet cake, perfectly complementing its rich flavors. Over the years, variations have emerged, leading to different recipes and adaptations. However, the classic red velvet cake remains a timeless favorite, celebrated for its visual appeal as well as its delightful taste.

Baking Tips for the Perfect Cake

To ensure your red velvet cake turns out perfectly moist and tender, follow a few key baking tips. First, always use room temperature ingredients, particularly eggs and buttermilk, as they blend more seamlessly into the batter. Additionally, be sure to measure your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can lead to using too much flour and a dense cake.

Another important tip is not to overmix the batter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed to maintain the cake's light texture. Keep an eye on baking times; every oven is different, so it's best to start checking for doneness a few minutes early. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs clinging to it.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Cake Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tbsp red food coloring
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cocoa powder

Cream Cheese Icing Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp heavy cream (if needed for consistency)

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious cake:

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, mix the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and cocoa powder.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into greased and floured cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing

In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Add vanilla and heavy cream for desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of cream cheese icing, then add the second layer. Frost the top and sides with remaining icing. Optionally, decorate with cake crumbs or sprinkles.

Your Red Velvet Cake is ready to enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Red velvet cake is a versatile dessert that can be served in many ways. Its stunning color makes it an excellent centerpiece for celebrations. Pair slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. For a festive touch, consider garnishing the cake with fresh berries or edible flowers, which can elevate its aesthetic appeal and add extra flavor.

For special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, serving red velvet cake with champagne or a sweet dessert wine can create a delightful pairing. Another idea is to incorporate layers of flavor by adding a little raspberry or strawberry jam between the cake layers for a fruity twist.

Storage Tips

To preserve the moistness of your red velvet cake, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep the cake for a longer period, it’s best to refrigerate it. Ensure it’s well-wrapped or in a container to avoid absorbing any odors from the fridge, which can affect its flavor.

If you want to prepare the cake in advance, you can bake the layers and freeze them. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. When you're ready to serve, allow the layers to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before icing and decorating. This ensures a fresh tasting cake even after freezing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?

Yes, but it may slightly alter the cake's color and flavor.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.