Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a timeless dessert that combines a soft, moist crumb with a hint of cocoa and tangy buttermilk, all topped with a luscious, slightly tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s a showstopping cake that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Red Velvet Cake is incredibly tender and flavorful, with just the right balance of sweetness and a light cocoa taste. The cream cheese frosting is creamy, rich, and not overly sweet, pairing perfectly with the velvety cake layers. Plus, it looks stunning with its vibrant red color and thick white frosting—impressive yet surprisingly easy to bake from scratch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring (liquid or gel)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and line bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In another large bowl, whisk together oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
8. To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla and a pinch of salt until smooth and fluffy.
9. Frost the cooled cake layers, stacking and covering the sides and top. Decorate as desired.

Servings and timing

Makes one 2-layer 9-inch cake (about 12–14 servings).
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling & frosting: About 1 hour
Total time: Approximately 2 hours

Variations

• Make cupcakes instead: Bake in lined muffin tins for 18–20 minutes.
• Add chocolate chips for extra texture.
• Use gel food coloring for a deeper red hue.
• Top with fresh berries or cake crumbs for a beautiful finish.

Storage/reheating

Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
To freeze, wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost as desired.

FAQs

1. What makes Red Velvet Cake different from chocolate cake?

Red Velvet Cake has a mild cocoa flavor and a distinct tang from buttermilk and vinegar. It’s softer and lighter than traditional chocolate cake.

2. Can I make this cake without food coloring?

Yes! The color won’t be red but the flavor stays the same.

3. Can I use butter instead of oil?

You can, but oil keeps the cake extra moist.

4. What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Substitute with whole milk mixed with 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the layers a day ahead and frost before serving.

6. How do I get smooth frosting?

Use room temperature cream cheese and butter and sift your powdered sugar.

7. Can I freeze leftover cake?

Yes, freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months.

8. Why is vinegar used in Red Velvet Cake?

It reacts with the baking soda to help the cake rise and stay tender.

9. Can I use this frosting on cupcakes?

Absolutely—this cream cheese frosting is perfect for cakes or cupcakes.

10. What nuts pair well with Red Velvet Cake?

Pecans or walnuts make a tasty topping if you want extra crunch.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a beloved classic that’s perfect for any celebration. With its soft crumb, gorgeous color, and irresistible frosting, this homemade version is sure to impress family and friends. Keep this recipe in your collection for when you want a cake that’s beautiful, delicious, and always a crowd favorite!

Print