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Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
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Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a classic, moist, and tender cake that perfectly balances subtle cocoa flavor with tangy, creamy frosting. This visually stunning dessert features its iconic vibrant red color contrasting beautifully with smooth white frosting, making it ideal for celebrations or everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

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

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt to ensure even mixing and a smooth batter texture. In a separate bowl, beat the sugar and softened butter until creamy and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Alternately add the dry ingredients with the buttermilk, mixing gently to combine. Stir in red food coloring and a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, which will provide the cake’s rise and signature red hue.
  2. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into greased and floured cake pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
  3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy and well combined. Stir in vanilla extract for aromatic warmth. Ensure the frosting is thick enough to hold shape but still spreadable.
  4. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting evenly over the top. Add the second cake layer on top, then cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth with a spatula or create decorative swirls for added charm.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter, eggs, and cream cheese for easier mixing and smoother texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and soft.
  • Choose natural, unsweetened cocoa powder to preserve authentic flavor and color balance.
  • If frosting feels too soft, chill briefly in the refrigerator before spreading.
  • Start checking cake doneness a few minutes before baking time ends to avoid drying out.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/red-velvet-cake-with-cream-cheese-frosting/