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Slice of classic red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting

Classic Red Velvet Cake

A timeless dessert with a striking red hue and fluffy cream cheese frosting, perfect for celebrations and cozy gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon 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
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.
  4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Baking
  1. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
  2. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. To prepare the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and remaining vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
  3. Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost between the layers, on top, and around the sides of the cake.
Serving
  1. Slice and serve to enjoy!

Notes

Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a more uniform batter. Use gel food coloring instead of liquid for a richer color without affecting the batter's consistency. Monitor the baking closely, as oven temperatures can vary. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting your cream cheese frosting.