Classic Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Classic Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Ingredients

• For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar

• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pans.

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

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

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can affect the cake’s texture.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Frosting

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

Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until fluffy.

Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top.

Place the second layer over the first and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

Use an offset spatula to smooth the frosting for a clean finish.