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Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake
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This classic Red Velvet Cake features a tender crumb with a subtle cocoa flavor and a vibrant red hue, topped with smooth and tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfectly moist and visually stunning, it’s an ideal dessert for celebrations or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tablespoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups buttermilk
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to avoid lumps and ensure even mixing. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then incorporate vanilla extract and red food coloring. Alternately add the dry ingredients with buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Finally, stir in the vinegar to help activate the leavening and intensify the red color.
  2. Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly into two greased and floured round cake pans. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door early to maintain consistent heat. After baking, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
  3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter, beating until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. Adjust sweetness to taste but keep the frosting slightly tangy to complement the cake.
  4. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth the frosting with a spatula or use piping for decoration. Chill briefly to set before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb.
  • Measure ingredients precisely for best results.
  • Use natural unsweetened cocoa powder for the best flavor and reaction with leavening agents.
  • Chill the frosting before spreading for easier application.
  • Test cake doneness with a toothpick to avoid under- or overbaking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Red Velvet Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Cocoa Cake, Celebration Cake, Moist Cake, Classic Dessert

Find it online: https://tastebudtrek.com/red-velvet-cake/