Description
This Southern Red Velvet Cake is a classic dessert featuring moist, tender layers of vibrant red cake with a hint of cocoa, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting. Ideal for special occasions or afternoon treats, this recipe yields a beautifully layered cake that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until evenly combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, room temperature buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure a tender cake.
- Divide batter and bake: Pour the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then carefully remove them and place on wire racks to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble and frost the cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
- Serve: Slice the cake and enjoy this classic Southern treat with rich flavors and creamy frosting.
Notes
- Ensure all refrigerated ingredients like eggs, buttermilk, cream cheese, and butter are at room temperature for best mixing results.
- For a more vibrant red color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid for less impact on batter consistency.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
- You can prepare the cake layers a day ahead and keep them covered airtight in the refrigerator for freshness.
- Use a serrated knife to slice the cake cleanly without crumbling.
