The South is known for its decadent and rich desserts, and red velvet cake is one of the most iconic. With its striking red hue, tender crumb, and subtle cocoa flavor, this classic cake has earned its place as a beloved treat for special occasions. This award winning recipe in the article will help you yields a moist, tender three-layer red velvet cake that is full of flavor.
1. Award Winning Red Velvet Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 ½ 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
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour the pans: Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and lightly dust them with flour, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Sift the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. This step ensures a light and even texture in the cake.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
Whisk the liquids: In another large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.
Check the batter consistency: The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, with a vibrant red color.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops for even baking.
Bake: Place the pans in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the cakes: Remove the pans from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the cream cheese and butter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Once fully incorporated, increase the speed to medium and beat until fluffy.
Add vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract for a rich, aromatic flavor.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Level the cake layers: If the cakes have domed slightly, use a serrated knife to level the tops.
Frost the first layer: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting evenly across the top.
Add the second layer: Place the second layer on top of the first, then frost the top and sides of the cake. Use a spatula to create a smooth finish or decorative swirls.
Decorate: For a classic look, crumble any leftover cake trimmings and sprinkle them on top or around the sides of the cake. Alternatively, garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder.
2. Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cake
Use room-temperature ingredients: Bring the eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese to room temperature before starting. This ensures a smoother batter and frosting.
Don’t skip the sifting: Sifting the dry ingredients prevents lumps and creates a finer texture in the cake.
Avoid overmixing: Mixing the batter too much can develop gluten, resulting in a dense cake. Stir just until combined.
Use high-quality ingredients: Opt for pure vanilla extract and real buttermilk for the best flavor.
Chill the frosting: For easier frosting application, let the cream cheese frosting chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before spreading.
3. Other Frosting Flavor Ideas for Red Velvet Cake
Red velvet cake is often paired with classic cream cheese frosting, but there are plenty of other frosting flavor ideas that can complement its rich, slightly tangy flavor. Here are some frosting options for you:
Chocolate Ganache Frosting: A rich and smooth chocolate ganache makes a decadent addition to red velvet cake. The deep cocoa flavor contrasts beautifully with the cake’s mild cocoa and tanginess.
Vanilla Buttercream: A simple, sweet vanilla buttercream offers a creamy, light flavor that won’t overpower the cake. You can make it more complex by adding a dash of vanilla bean paste for extra richness.
Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting: For a spiced touch, cinnamon mixed into cream cheese frosting can give your red velvet cake a cozy, warm flavor profile.
Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting: Adding a bit of lemon zest or lemon juice to the traditional cream cheese frosting can create a refreshing, zesty contrast that balances the cake’s richness.
Peanut Butter Frosting: Peanut butter offers a savory, nutty flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of red velvet. A peanut butter buttercream or peanut butter cream cheese frosting can be a unique combination.
Coconut Frosting: A coconut-flavored frosting, whether a coconut buttercream or coconut cream cheese frosting, brings tropical sweetness and texture that contrasts with the smoothness of the cake.
With its striking appearance, delicate cocoa flavor, and velvety texture, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering. By following this award winning recipe, you’ll create a timeless treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
