Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake Recipe

Name: Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 10.0
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 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; 1 tablespoon milk (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Create a stunning centerpiece for any celebration with this Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake. Rich, velvety layers of vibrant red cocoa cake, paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting, make this dessert a showstopper. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday gatherings, this cake is not only visually appealing but also irresistibly delicious, ensuring everyone will be asking for seconds.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T03:49:22.699Z

This Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake is a classic dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any occasion.

The History of Red Velvet Cake

Red velvet cake has a storied history that dates back to the 1920s. The cake originally gained popularity in the southern United States, where its rich, distinctive color and smooth texture captivated bakers and dessert lovers alike. The combination of cocoa powder, buttermilk, and vinegar creates a unique chemical reaction, giving the cake its signature texture and flavor.

Initially, the cake was referred to as 'velvet cake' due to its soft, crumbly consistency. It wasn't until the 1980s that red velvet cake became a culinary phenomenon, largely due to its striking visual appeal and association with special occasions. As a result, it exploded in popularity, and today, it is a staple at birthdays, weddings, and other celebratory events.

Perfect Pairings

When serving your Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake, consider pairing it with complementary flavors to enhance the experience. A rich cup of coffee or a glass of milk can mellow the sweetness of the cake, making each bite more enjoyable. If you're feeling adventurous, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

For those who love a touch of fruit, fresh raspberries or strawberries can provide a vibrant contrast to the cake's rich flavor. The tartness of berries cuts through the creaminess of the frosting, offering a delightful balance on the palate. Experiment with different pairings to find your perfect combination!

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with your Red Velvet Layer Cake, it's essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon and level method for flour and sugar to ensure you don’t end up with a dry cake. Additionally, let your eggs and buttermilk come to room temperature before mixing them into your batter – this helps create an even texture.

Don't be afraid to use high-quality cocoa powder and food coloring for the best flavor and color. These ingredients can significantly affect the overall taste and visual impact of your cake. Lastly, let your cake layers cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off, giving you a beautifully adorned cake.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

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

Frosting Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

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

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

In another bowl, combine the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Mix well.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until well combined. Mix in the vanilla extract.

If the frosting is too thick, add a little milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers are cool, place one layer on a cake stand or plate.

Spread a layer of frosting on top and place the second layer on top of it. Repeat with the third layer.

Frost the top and sides of the entire cake. Decorate as desired.

Let the cake sit for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the frosting to set.

Storing Your Cake

Once you've baked and decorated your Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake, you'll want to enjoy it at its best. To store it properly, keep the cake covered at room temperature if you plan to eat it within one to two days. This will help maintain its moist texture and flavor.

For longer storage, consider refrigerating the cake. Just make sure it's wrapped well in plastic wrap or situated in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. When you're ready to enjoy it again, let it sit at room temperature for a little while to bring back its desirable softness.

Customizing Your Cake

Feel free to customize the Ultimate Red Velvet Layer Cake to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works as a 1:1 replacement. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice of this festive treat.

You can also experiment with the frosting by adding flavor extracts, such as almond or peppermint, for a fun twist. Sprinkle crushed nuts or chocolate shavings on top for added texture and decoration. No matter how you personalize it, the result will still be delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can bake the layers in advance and freeze them. Just let them cool completely, wrap them tightly, and store them in the freezer.

→ Can I use a different frosting?

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