The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
What is Red Velvet Cake?
Red velvet cake is a beloved dessert known for its deep red color, ultra-moist texture, and subtle chocolate flavor, all topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s a perfect choice for romantic dinners, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, or just when you’re craving a stunning, classic treat.
Want to make a stunning dessert that looks like it came from a bakery? This Red Velvet Cake recipe is your go-to! Soft, velvety texture, rich cocoa flavor, and that signature red color – topped with luscious cream cheese frosting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, moist, and fluffy layers
- Rich cocoa flavor balanced with a light tang
- Traditional cream cheese frosting
- Easy to follow – beginner-friendly
- Looks stunning on any dessert table!
Why This Recipe Works
- Beginners welcome – easy steps, no special tools needed
- Moist and tender texture from buttermilk and oil
- Iconic flavor – not overly sweet, with a tangy twist
- Perfect for every celebration – birthday, Valentine’s, or wedding events
Ingredients for Red Velvet cake
For the Red Velvet Cake:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour (300g)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1¾ cups sugar (350g)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp red food coloring (gel preferred)
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
For Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 225g cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter (115g), softened
- 2½ – 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Red Velvet Cake – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prep Oven and Pans
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, sift flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Wet Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, beat sugar and oil.
- Add eggs, one at a time. Mix in buttermilk, vanilla, vinegar, and red food coloring.
Step 4: Combine
- Gradually fold dry mixture into wet ingredients. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake
- Divide batter evenly.
- Bake for 28–32 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely before frosting.
How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and butter together until creamy and fluffy.
- Gradually add sifted powdered sugar and beat on low until fully incorporated.
- Add vanilla and a pinch of salt. Mix until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Chill slightly if needed before using.
Assembly Tips
- Trim cake layers if domed.
- Spread a generous amount of frosting between each layer.
- Frost the outside and smooth with an offset spatula.
- Optional: Decorate with red velvet crumbs, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries.
Cream Cheese Frosting Instructions
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add vanilla and salt. Gradually mix in powdered sugar.
- Chill if needed. Frost cake layers and smooth the sides.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store in the fridge (airtight) for up to 5 days
- Freeze unfrosted layers for up to 1 month
- Best served at room temperature
Tips for Success
- Use room-temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter – this keeps it fluffy.
- Use gel food color for a vibrant red hue.
- For a deeper flavor, let the cake rest overnight in the fridge before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- Use gel food color for a deeper red shade
- Buttermilk is key to soft texture – don’t skip it!
- Chill layers before frosting to reduce crumbs
- For a taller cake, bake in three 6-inch pans
FAQs
Q: Can I use beetroot juice instead of food coloring?
Yes! Use 2–3 tablespoons of beet juice, but the red won’t be as vibrant.
Q: Can I use butter instead of oil?
You can, but oil gives a moister crumb. Butter will provide more flavor.
Q: Why is vinegar used in red velvet cake?
It helps react with baking soda and buttermilk, creating a soft, fluffy texture.
Summary
This homemade red velvet cake is everything you want in a dessert – moist, rich, tangy, and sweet. It’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself. With our step-by-step guide and SEO-optimized format, your readers will love baking (and sharing) this show-stopping cake.
