This moist red velvet cake is rich, fluffy, and vibrant, perfectly paired with a whipped cream cheese frosting that’s light, tangy, and irresistibly creamy. A classic and elegant dessert for any celebration.
Author:Katie
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:12 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon fine salt
2 tablespoons dutch pressed cocoa powder
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 pound cream cheese, softened
2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
4 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray three 9-inch cake pans with baking spray and set aside.
Sift together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder in a large bowl.
In another large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
Combine the wet and dry mixtures in a stand mixer. Mix until just blended. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to fully incorporate all ingredients.
Evenly distribute the batter among the prepared pans.
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick at the 16-minute mark. Rotate the pans halfway through baking.
Once baked, remove cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely before frosting.
To make the frosting, beat butter, cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla in a stand mixer for about 5 minutes on medium speed until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Frost the cooled cake layers as desired and serve.
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture and mixing results.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant red tone if preferred.
Store the frosted cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Let the cake sit at room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.