Indulge in this classic Red Velvet Cake with velvety smooth cream cheese frosting. This recipe will guide you through the steps of creating a moist and tender cake with a vibrant red color and a hint of cocoa flavor. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, this homemade red velvet cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
- Decorate the cake as desired and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.