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!