Go Back
The main red velvet cake ingredients create its unique taste and texture. You need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. These form the cake's base. The flour gives structure, while sugar adds sweetness. Cocoa powder adds a hint of chocolate flavor.

Red Velvet Cake

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of red velvet cake with this delightful recipe perfect for any occasion! Discover the essential ingredients that create its rich taste and vibrant color, and follow our easy step-by-step instructions to craft a moist, fluffy cake. Plus, explore creative frosting options and chic decorating tips to make your cake shine. Click through to unlock the full recipe and elevate your dessert game today!

Ingredients
  

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon cocoa powder

1 ½ cups vegetable oil

1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

2 large eggs, at room temperature

2 tablespoons red food coloring

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Whisk together until well blended.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until smooth and combined.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, blending well until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix.

          Bake the Cake: Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

            Cool the Cakes: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

              Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and melted butter together until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until creamy and spreadable.

                Frost the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

                  Decorate: Optionally, use leftover frosting to create decorative swirls or pipe rosettes on top of the cake. You can also sprinkle cocoa powder or red velvet crumbs on top for added flair.

                    Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes | Servings: 12

                      - Presentation Tips: Serve the cake on a decorative cake stand with fresh berries or edible flowers around it for an elegant touch.