Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake Recipe

Name: Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This stunning Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake is the perfect showstopper for any celebration. With its rich, velvety texture and striking red hue, it’s layered with cream cheese frosting that adds a delightful tang. Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions, this cake guarantees to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T01:42:20.310Z

This Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake is not just a dessert; it's a culinary experience that will elevate any occasion.

A Festive Treat for All Occasions

Red velvet cake has become a beloved classic, seamlessly blending the rich flavors of chocolate with the unique taste that buttermilk provides. Its stunning visual appeal makes it a sought-after dessert at events ranging from birthdays to weddings. The vibrant red color symbolizes celebration and joy, creating a wonderful ambiance at any gathering.

When you serve this Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake, you're not just offering a dessert; you're presenting a piece of culinary art. Each slice reveals a beautiful contrast of deep red and creamy white, capturing the attention of your guests and leaving a lasting impression.

The Perfect Pairing: Cream Cheese Frosting

No red velvet cake is complete without its signature cream cheese frosting. This frosting strikes the perfect balance between creamy and tangy, complementing the sweetness of the cake. The richness of the cream cheese enhances the flavors, creating a harmonious blend that elevates your dessert experience.

To achieve the ideal frosting consistency, ensure that both the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This step not only makes the mixing easier but also guarantees that the frosting is smooth and easy to spread, ensuring a beautiful finish for your cake.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your cake turns out perfectly, be mindful of your ingredient measurements. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially when measuring flour and sugar. Moreover, always sift dry ingredients together to remove any lumps, ensuring an even texture throughout your batter.

Don't rush the cooling process. Allow your cakes to cool in the pans briefly and then on wire racks. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy bottom. While your cake cools, take the time to prepare the frosting, making sure it's ready for a smooth application once the layers are fully cooled.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

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

Cream Cheese Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Frost

Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely. Frost with cream cheese frosting.

Enjoy your beautiful cake!

Storing Your Cake

If you find yourself with leftover cake, don't worry! This Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake stores beautifully. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can also refrigerate individual slices for up to a week, making it easy to enjoy your dessert over time.

For the best flavor and texture, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving, as this enhances the taste experience.

Customization Options

This recipe is versatile, allowing for plenty of customization. Feel free to experiment by adding a hint of almond extract for a unique flavor twist or incorporating cocoa nibs for extra texture. You can also divide the batter into smaller pans to create mini cakes for individual servings.

For a fun and festive touch, consider decorating the outside with sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or fresh berries. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but can also add delightful flavor contrasts.

Pairing Beverages

Red velvet cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. A rich cup of coffee complements the cake’s sweetness, while a glass of cold milk enhances its comforting flavors. For a more festive option, consider serving it alongside a glass of sparkling wine or champagne, which can elevate your celebration.

For a cozy evening, indulgent hot chocolate serves as a delightful companion, making every bite of cake even more special. Be sure to choose your beverage based on the occasion, as the right pairing can enhance the overall dessert experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different food coloring?

Yes, you can use any gel or liquid food coloring, but it may affect the flavor slightly.

→ How long does the cake last?

The cake can last up to 5 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.