Description
A classic red velvet layer cake with a soft, moist crumb and subtle cocoa flavor, paired with rich and tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations or an elegant homemade dessert.
Ingredients
2 1/2 cups cake flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1/2 cup neutral oil
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 cup buttermilk
16 ounces full-fat cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans, lining them with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add oil and mix until smooth.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring.
- Add dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with buttermilk, mixing gently until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly between pans and smooth tops. Bake for 28–32 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes briefly in pans, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt, and beat until fluffy.
- Level cake layers if needed. Place one layer on a plate, spread frosting on top, then add the second layer.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake. Chill for 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Use natural food coloring for a softer red color if preferred.
Add extra cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Reduce powdered sugar or add a bit of cream for a lighter frosting texture.
Can be made as cupcakes for easier serving.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving.
Unfrosted layers can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 48 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 62 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
