The James Gang Red Velvet Cake is a classic and delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe features a moist and tender red velvet cake layered with a rich cream cheese frosting. The cake is made with cocoa powder and vinegar to enhance the flavor and create a beautiful deep-red color. It is a crowd-pleasing dessert that will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In a separate large bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Repeat with the remaining cake layers, spreading frosting between each layer and on top of the cake.
- Use a spatula to create a smooth finish on the sides of the cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve slices of the James Gang Red Velvet Cake and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Red velvet cake originally got its color from a chemical reaction between natural cocoa powder and the acidity of buttermilk and vinegar.
During the Great Depression, bakers used boiled beet juices to enhance the red color of the cake when ingredients like cocoa powder and food coloring were scarce.
The James Gang Red Velvet Cake is named after the famous outlaw Jesse James and his gang, who reportedly loved this moist and flavorful cake.