Red velvet cake is a classic dessert that is loved by many people. This delicious cake is made with a combination of cocoa, buttermilk, and a hint of vinegar that gives it its signature red color. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is the perfect treat for special occasions or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced one, this simple recipe will help you make a delicious and impressive red velvet cake.
Ingredients
The ingredients needed to make a red velvet cake include:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ounce red food coloring
Instructions
To make a red velvet cake, follow these steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set the bowl aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat until combined.
- Add the buttermilk, vinegar, vanilla extract, and food coloring. Beat until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter between the two prepared pans and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cool, frost with cream cheese frosting and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Perfect Red Velvet Cake
- Be sure to mix the batter only until just combined. Overmixing can cause the cake to be tough.
- Measure the ingredients accurately for best results.
- For an extra moist cake, add 1/2 cup of sour cream to the batter.
- To make mini red velvet cakes, use two 8-inch pans and bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- To make a vegan red velvet cake, substitute the eggs with 1/2 cup of applesauce and the butter with vegan butter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes red velvet cake red?
Red velvet cake gets its red color from the combination of cocoa powder and food coloring. Some recipes also call for beet juice for an even deeper red color.
Can I use a box mix to make red velvet cake?
Yes, you can use a box mix to make red velvet cake. Just follow the instructions on the box.
Can I freeze red velvet cake?
Yes, you can freeze red velvet cake. Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I make red velvet cupcakes?
Yes, you can make red velvet cupcakes. Just divide the batter between 24 cupcake liners and bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I use whole wheat flour to make red velvet cake?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour to make red velvet cake. Just substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and proceed with the recipe as written.
