Best Ever Red Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Best Ever Red Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 slices
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon red food coloring; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional for consistency)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Treat yourself to a slice of this unforgettable Red Velvet Cake, featuring moist layers of rich, red cocoa sponge perfectly complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any special occasion, this cake is not only a showstopper but also a delight for the taste buds. Elevate your dessert game with this classic recipe that combines a velvety texture and a hint of chocolate in every bite.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T01:42:26.125Z

This classic Red Velvet Cake is the epitome of a celebratory dessert. The vibrant red color and rich flavor make it a favorite among cake lovers.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and fluffy cake texture
Rich cocoa flavor with a hint of vanilla
Delicious cream cheese frosting that complements the cake perfectly
Perfect for any celebration or special occasion

      

The Origin of Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake has a rich history rooted in the Southern United States. Often associated with special occasions, its striking red hue has captivated dessert lovers for generations. The combination of buttermilk and cocoa powder not only gives the cake its distinctive color but also contributes to its moist, tender crumb. While originally a simple cake, it has evolved into a decadent dessert known for its eye-catching appearance and luxurious taste.

In the early 20th century, red velvet cake was often served at posh gatherings, thanks to its velvety texture and unique flavor profile. The cake's recipe typically included ingredients like cocoa powder and vinegar, which helped enhance its natural red hue. Over time, cream cheese frosting became the go-to topping, perfectly complementing the cake's sweetness. Today, red velvet cake continues to be a beloved choice for birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Red Velvet Cake

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your red velvet cake, it's crucial to follow some baking best practices. First, make sure to use room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk. This allows for better emulsification and creates a smoother batter, resulting in a fluffier cake. Additionally, measuring ingredients accurately is key; consider weighing your flour instead of using measuring cups to ensure consistent results.

Don’t skip the baking soda and vinegar. These ingredients work together to create a chemical reaction that helps the cake rise and develop a tender crumb. Lastly, allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting them. If they're even slightly warm, the cream cheese frosting can melt and cause a messy finish. With these tips in mind, you're on your way to baking a wonderfully delicious red velvet cake.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon red food coloring
1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

1 cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional for consistency)

Make sure all ingredients are room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, blend the oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, and vinegar.

Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. If desired, add heavy cream to achieve a smoother consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.

Allow the cake to set for about 30 minutes before slicing for best presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Red Velvet Cake is versatile when it comes to serving options. While traditional cream cheese frosting is the classic choice, consider pairing this cake with flavored syrups or fresh fruit to enhance its flavor. A drizzle of raspberry or chocolate sauce can elevate the presentation while adding a burst of flavor. Alternatively, garnish with chocolate shavings or edible flowers for a polished look.

For a unique twist, serve slices of red velvet cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This combination not only provides a delightful contrast of temperatures but also balances the rich flavor of the cake. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will make your red velvet cake a memorable experience.

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have any leftovers of your decadent red velvet cake, storing them properly is essential for maintaining its freshness. Keep the cake tightly covered in an airtight container or loosely wrapped with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Refrigeration is recommended, especially with cream cheese frosting, to ensure the cake stays fresh for a longer period.

Red velvet cake can typically last in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing slices. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to indulge, allow the cake to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to frost and serve.

→ Can I use a different frosting?

Absolutely! While cream cheese frosting is traditional, you can use buttercream or ganache if you prefer.