Best Red Velvet Cake

Name: Best Red Velvet Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup 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; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the ultimate in dessert satisfaction with this Best Red Velvet Cake recipe. This stunning cake features a rich, velvety texture and a subtle cocoa flavor, beautifully complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for birthdays, weddings, or any special occasion, this iconic dessert will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T03:49:19.704Z

The Charm of Red Velvet

Red velvet cake is more than just a dessert; it's a cultural icon in the baking world. The striking red hue pairs perfectly with the subtle chocolate undertones, creating a cake that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Originating in the United States, this cake has gained immense popularity for its unique flavor and eye-catching appearance, making it a favorite at celebrations.

Traditionally associated with special occasions, red velvet cake makes a statement on any dessert table. Its soft, crumbly texture captivates those who take their first bite, while the rich cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious element that elevates the overall experience. Whether it’s a birthday party, wedding, or holiday gathering, red velvet cake has a special place in the heart of dessert lovers.

Perfect Pairings

While red velvet cake shines on its own, it can be even more enjoyable when paired with other delightful treats. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving slices alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or dollops of fresh whipped cream. The cold creaminess of the ice cream beautifully contrasts with the rich flavors of the cake, creating a balance that your guests will adore.

Additionally, a well-brewed cup of coffee or a rich hot chocolate complements the cocoa notes in the cake. The bitterness of the coffee enhances the sweetness of the frosting, making every bite a well-rounded experience. Whether enjoyed after dinner or as an afternoon snack, red velvet cake provides endless possibilities for pairing.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best red velvet cake, always use room-temperature ingredients. This ensures that your wet ingredients blend seamlessly together, creating a smooth and unified batter. If you forget to take your eggs and buttermilk out in advance, simply place the eggs in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes and let the buttermilk sit out for a while to take off the chill.

Don’t skip the vinegar in the recipe—this is essential for achieving the classic red velvet flavor profile. The combination of baking soda and vinegar helps to create a light, airy texture, so make sure these two ingredients are fresh for the best results. Furthermore, be cautious not to overmix the batter; mixing it until just combined helps maintain the cake's tender crumb.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

1 cup 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

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt

Cream Cheese Frosting

1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all the ingredients well before proceeding to the steps.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix until well incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix well. Stir in vanilla extract.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.

Enjoy your delicious Best Red Velvet Cake!

Storing and Serving

Once your beautiful red velvet cake is assembled, you may want to enjoy it over several days. To keep the cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you have leftover cake, it’s best to refrigerate it, which can extend its freshness up to a week. Just ensure it’s well covered to prevent it from drying out.

If you're serving the cake for an event and plan to make it ahead of time, you can freeze the layers before frosting. Simply wrap each cooled layer tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before frosting and decorating.

Variations to Explore

Feeling adventurous? There are plenty of ways to give your red velvet cake a personal twist. Consider adding chocolate chips into the batter for extra decadence or incorporating a hint of orange zest for a refreshing citrus flair. You can also experiment with different frostings; a buttery vanilla frosting or a rich ganache can bring a delightful change to the traditional cream cheese frosting.

For those who prefer a healthier alternative, you can swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or gluten-free alternatives. These substitutions can still yield a delicious cake while catering to dietary preferences. Just be aware that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, so it's best to experiment to find your favorite version.

Celebrating with Red Velvet

Red velvet cake is more than dessert; it's a celebration of flavor and tradition. Every slice tells a story, making it the perfect centerpiece for gatherings. From intimate family dinners to grand weddings, this cake has a way of bringing people together. Its vibrant color and mouthwatering taste create a sense of joy and festivity, no matter the occasion.

As you bake and share your own red velvet cake, you’ll create memories and connect with loved ones over this beloved dessert. Don’t be surprised if your guests go back for seconds or thirds; it’s nearly impossible to resist the allure of a perfectly made red velvet cake with rich cream cheese frosting. Embrace the joy it brings and enjoy every delicious moment!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of frosting?

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

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.