Red velvet cake is a classic dessert that’s both visually stunning and delicious. With its striking red color and rich, slightly tangy flavor, it’s no wonder why it’s a favorite for celebrations and special occasions. The cake is a perfect balance of moistness, flavor, and sweetness, often paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting that complements its richness. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, anniversary, or any festive occasion, mastering red velvet cake is a rewarding baking achievement. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make the perfect red velvet cake from scratch, ensuring you get a tender, flavorful result every time.
Ingredients for Red Velvet Cake
To make a classic red velvet cake, you need a mix of simple ingredients that come together to create the iconic texture and flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base for the cake, providing structure.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise and creates the light texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds a subtle chocolate flavor and gives the cake its depth.
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil – Ensures a moist, tender cake.
- 1 cup buttermilk – Contributes to the cake’s richness and tang.
- 2 large eggs – Adds structure and stability to the cake.
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring – Gives the cake its signature red color.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the cake’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar – Reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise and tenderize the texture.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened) – The creamy base for the frosting.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) – Adds richness to the frosting.
- 4 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- A pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness of the frosting.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Red Velvet Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line the bottom of the pans with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Sifting helps remove any lumps and ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate, large bowl, whisk together the sugar and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. The vinegar reacts with the baking soda to make the cake light and airy, while the food coloring gives the cake its iconic red hue.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, make the frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and mix until combined.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes have completely cooled, it’s time to frost:
- Place the first layer of cake on a cake stand or serving plate.
- Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top of the first layer, smoothing it out to the edges.
- Place the second layer on top, and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Use an offset spatula to smooth the frosting around the sides and top for an even finish.
- Tip: If you want a clean, professional look, you can create a “naked cake” effect by leaving the sides of the cake slightly exposed with just a thin layer of frosting on the sides.
Step 8: Optional Decorations
- Piping: Use a piping bag with a decorative tip to add frosting borders or rosettes around the top and bottom edges of the cake.
- Red Velvet Crumbs: Crumble a small amount of the cake and sprinkle the crumbs over the top of the frosting for a textured look.
- Fresh Flowers or Edible Decorations: Add a few fresh flowers or decorative sprinkles for a pop of color and elegance.
Conclusion
Making the perfect red velvet cake is a rewarding baking project that yields a beautifully colored, deliciously moist, and wonderfully decadent dessert. With this step-by-step guide, you now have the knowledge and techniques to bake a red velvet cake that’s sure to impress at any occasion. From preparing the perfect cake batter to making a smooth cream cheese frosting, these tips will help you achieve a bakery-worthy result every time. So, gather your ingredients and get baking—you’re just one cake away from a truly unforgettable red velvet treat!