A Southern classic, this red velvet cake features a tender, velvety crumb with a hint of cocoa and a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion.
Author:Claire
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:35 min
Total Time:55 min
Yield:12 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2–4 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cakes cool, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one cake layer, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
Notes
For a brighter red color, you can use more food coloring, but be mindful of the flavor.
Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for a smooth frosting.
Chill the cake for about 30 minutes before frosting for easier handling.