Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

INTRODUCTION

Red velvet cake is a delightful dessert that has captured the hearts of many. This cake shines with its vibrant red color and soft, moist texture. Paired with the rich and creamy cream cheese frosting, it is a favorite for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, and holidays. Its unique flavor comes from the combination of cocoa powder and buttermilk, making it distinct yet wonderfully delicious.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This red velvet cake recipe is simple and straightforward. Even if you are new to baking, you can make a beautiful cake that impresses your family and friends. The vibrant red color makes it perfect for celebrations, while the cream cheese frosting adds a rich taste that balances perfectly with the cake. You’ll love how moist and fluffy the cake is, and the creamy frosting will keep you coming back for more. Plus, making it yourself means you can tailor it to your tastes and celebrate with a homemade delight.

HOW TO MAKE Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

To make a red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting, you follow a series of simple steps. It’s an enjoyable process that transforms basic ingredients into a stunning dessert.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you start baking, gather the right equipment:

• 3 (9-inch) round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Wire racks for cooling
• Off-set spatula for frosting

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/3 cup vegetable or canola oil
• 3 large eggs
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1 oz liquid red food coloring
• 1 1/3 cups buttermilk
• 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp vinegar
• 16 oz cream cheese, nearly at room temperature
• 1 cup unsalted butter, nearly at room temperature
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 6 cups powdered sugar

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

For the Red Velvet Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

2. Prepare the Pans: Butter three 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper and butter the parchment paper to prevent sticking.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and sifted cocoa powder. This step helps to evenly distribute the ingredients.

4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In an electric mixer, beat together the sugar and softened butter until fluffy. This process incorporates air to make your cake light.

5. Add Oil and Eggs: Mix in the vegetable oil, and then add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the egg yolks. Continue mixing until everything is well blended. Add the red food coloring to this mixture and mix until combined.

6. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and vinegar.

7. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture and buttermilk mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

8. Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 26-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cool the Cakes: Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, invert them onto wire racks to cool completely.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth.

2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Slowly mix in the vanilla extract and powdered sugar. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

3. Frost the Cakes: Once the cakes are cooled completely, use an off-set spatula to frost the top of one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and frost it, followed by the final layer. Frost the top and the sides of the entire cake.

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HOW TO SERVE Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

To serve the red velvet cake, slice it into equal pieces so guests can enjoy a perfect portion. You can add a simple garnish, like fresh berries or a sprinkle of cocoa powder, to enhance the presentation. Serve it with a glass of milk, a hot cup of coffee, or your favorite tea for a delightful experience.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

You can keep the leftover red velvet cake in the refrigerator. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The cake can stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days in the fridge. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This way, the cake can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Red velvet cake pairs perfectly with a variety of drinks. Try it with:

• A classic cup of coffee or espresso for a rich combination.
• A glass of cold milk for a classic pairing.
• Sweet iced tea for a refreshing contrast.
• Sparkling water with a slice of lemon for a light and refreshing option.

For special occasions, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, making it even more delightful.

VARIATIONS

There are many fun variations you can try with this recipe:

• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the cake batter for extra texture and flavor.
• Different Colors: Use other food colorings to experiment with different shades.
• Layered Cake: Bake multiple thin layers of cake and create a tall, impressive layered dessert.
• Different Frostings: Use whipped cream, chocolate ganache, or even a fruit-flavored frosting to change it up.

FAQs

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1. Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use cake flour. It will make your cake lighter and fluffier.

2. What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

3. How do I make sure my cake doesn’t stick to the pans?

By buttering the pans and lining them with parchment paper, you help ensure your cake comes out smoothly. Also, let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before turning it out.

4. Can I use less sugar in the cake?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, but too much sugar affects the cake’s texture and moisture. It is best to follow the recipe for the best results.

5. Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free butter, a non-dairy milk alternative, and a dairy-free cream cheese substitute for the frosting.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

You can prepare the cake layers ahead of time. Bake and cool them completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to a day. You can also make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time. Keep it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, just give it a quick stir and frost your cake. This makes it easy to enjoy freshly baked cake with minimal fuss on the day of your event.

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