Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the ultimate dessert delight with this Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake recipe, where moist layers of rich red velvet cake are perfectly balanced with a creamy, tangy frosting. Ideal for celebrations or a sweet treat, this cake will have everyone asking for seconds. It's the perfect blend of vibrant color and delicious flavor, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any occasion.
This Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake is a classic dessert that brings joy to any celebration. Its rich history and vibrant color make it a favorite for many.
A Visual Feast
The Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake not only tantalizes the taste buds but also dazzles the eyes. Its vibrant red hue sets a festive tone, making it an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or holiday, this cake promises to be a showstopper. You can easily decorate it with sprinkles, fresh berries, or flowers, enhancing its appeal and making it a special treat for all occasions.
Its rich layers can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of toppings. Popular choices include chocolate shavings or a dusting of cocoa powder, which complement the cake's flavor profile beautifully. The contrasting white of the cream cheese frosting against the red velvet creates a striking visual that draws everyone in, making it a perfect candidate for social media-worthy snapshots.
Perfect Pairings
This delectable Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake shines on its own, but it can also be complemented with various sides and beverages. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk pairs beautifully with each slice, enhancing the cake’s rich flavors. You can also serve it with vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat that balances the sweetness of the cake and adds a creamy texture.
For those looking to elevate their dessert experience, pairing this cake with a tart raspberry coulis can create a delightful contrast. The tanginess of the raspberries cuts through the sweetness and richness of the cake, providing a delightful burst of flavor. Such pairings not only enrich the taste but also provide a balanced aftertaste that guests will appreciate.
Baking Tips and Tricks
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 and 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 Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (if needed for consistency)
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another large bowl, whisk together the sugar and vegetable oil. Add buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar, mixing until fully combined.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Add milk if needed for desired consistency.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of the first layer, add the second layer, and frost the top and sides as desired.
Serve
Slice and serve your beautiful Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake to friends and family!
Enjoy your homemade cake!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
This Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
To serve, slice the cake into even pieces and drizzle with any leftover frosting for an adding touch of sweetness. For special occasions, add a decorative touch with edible glitter or fresh mint leaves. This attention to detail will impress your guests and elevate your presentation, making each slice feel even more special.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to experiment and make this Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake your own! You can add a hint of espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolatey notes, or swap the vanilla extract for almond extract for a nutty twist. For a fruity alternative, consider folding in fresh berries or nuts for added texture and flavor.
If you want to cater to different dietary restrictions, gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute for all-purpose flour, making it a delicious option for gluten-sensitive family and friends. With a few simple adjustments, you can create a variation of this classic cake that suits everyone’s preferences while remaining equally delicious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic buttermilk.
→ How long does the cake last?
The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.
Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake
Experience the ultimate dessert delight with this Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake recipe, where moist layers of rich red velvet cake are perfectly balanced with a creamy, tangy frosting. Ideal for celebrations or a sweet treat, this cake will have everyone asking for seconds. It's the perfect blend of vibrant color and delicious flavor, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for any occasion.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12.0
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 and 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 Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (if needed for consistency)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.
In another large bowl, whisk together the sugar and vegetable oil. Add buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar, mixing until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
In a large bowl, beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Add milk if needed for desired consistency.
Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of frosting on top of the first layer, add the second layer, and frost the top and sides as desired.
Slice and serve your beautiful Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake to friends and family!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 3g