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Cream Cheese Frosted Red Velvet Cake with decorative topping on a plate

Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

A stunning dessert with a rich crimson hue and luscious cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth, perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Cake, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the cake

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Sifted for better texture.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar For sweetness.
  • 1 tsp baking soda Helps the cake rise.
  • 1 tsp cocoa powder Provides the signature flavor.
  • 0.5 tsps salt Enhances flavors.
  • 1.5 cups vegetable oil Adds moisture.
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature Gives a tender crumb.
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature Binds the ingredients.
  • 2 tbsp red food coloring Provides the bold red hue.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract For flavor.
  • 1 tsp white vinegar Enhances flavor.

For the frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Base for frosting.
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened Adds richness.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract For flavor.
  • a pinch salt Balances sweetness.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.

Baking

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting Preparation

  • In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy. Incorporate vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Assembly

  • Spread frosting between the cooled cake layers, then cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
  • Optionally, decorate with sprinkles or fresh berries.

Notes

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Sift flour and powdered sugar to avoid lumps. Always taste as you go!
Keyword baking recipe, Celebration Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Homemade Cake, Red Velvet Cake