Delicious Red Velvet Cake (Printable)
Luscious, moist red velvet cake with subtle cocoa flavor and creamy frosting—perfect for celebrations.
# What You'll Need:
→ For the Cake
01 - 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1 teaspoon fine salt
05 - 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
06 - 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
07 - 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
08 - 2 large eggs, room temperature
09 - 2 tablespoons red food coloring
10 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
11 - 1 teaspoon white vinegar
→ For the Cream Cheese Frosting
12 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
13 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
14 - 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
15 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
16 - Pinch of salt
# How to Make It:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
02 - Sift together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder in a medium bowl.
03 - Whisk together oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar in a large bowl until well combined.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until smooth.
05 - Divide the batter evenly between prepared cake pans.
06 - Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
07 - Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
08 - Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, then vanilla and salt. Beat until light and fluffy.
09 - Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer over the first and frost the top and sides.
10 - Chill for 30 minutes before slicing for clean cuts.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The oil instead of butter creates the most tender, velvety crumb that stays moist for days
- This recipe has saved more last minute celebrations than I can count
- The frosting is tangy and sweet without being cloying like grocery store versions
02 -
- Room temperature ingredients prevent curdling and ensure even baking
- Over mixing develops gluten and makes the cake tough instead of tender
- The vinegar might seem odd but it is crucial for that vibrant red color
03 -
- Weigh your pans after pouring batter to ensure perfectly even layers
- Wrap cake layers in plastic while slightly warm to lock in moisture