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Red Velvet Cake

The Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide for a Perfect Dessert

The Ultimate Red Velvet Cake Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide for a Perfect Dessert
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
50 minutes
Course cake
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or stand mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Whisk
  • 9-inch round cake pans (2-3)
  • Cooling rack
  • Offset spatula
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar

Notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and line your cake pans with parchment paper.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  4. In another bowl, combine the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.
  5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.

Baking the Cake

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  2. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a large bowl, beat 8 oz of cream cheese and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter until creamy.
  2. Add 4 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until smooth.
  3. Spread the frosting between the cake layers and over the top and sides.

Tips for Success

  • Achieving the Perfect Red Color: Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant color without altering the batter consistency.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined.

Serving Suggestions

Red velvet cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or even a glass of red wine. For a festive touch, top the cake with fresh berries or edible flowers.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigeration Tips

Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

 

Keyword cake