Best Ever Red Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Best Ever Red Velvet Cake with Dreamy Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp cocoa powder; 1 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 2 tbsp red food coloring; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp white vinegar; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This luscious Best Ever Red Velvet Cake is a showstopper for any occasion! Moist, vibrant red layers of rich cocoa flavor are paired perfectly with velvety cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. This delightful dessert will impress your guests and make for an unforgettable celebration. Easy to make and absolutely irresistible, this red velvet cake is a must-try for all dessert lovers.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-17T04:05:14.206Z

This cake has been a family favorite for generations. Every bite is filled with a rush of flavors that bring joy to any gathering.

        Why You'll Love It
        Moist and rich flavor
Perfect for celebrations
Luxurious cream cheese frosting
Eye-catching presentation

      

The History of Red Velvet Cake

Red velvet cake has a rich and storied past, tracing its roots back to the early 20th century. Originally a regional specialty in the Southern United States, this cake became famous for its striking red color and unique flavor profile, which combines hints of cocoa with a tangy sweetness. Traditionally, it was made with buttermilk, which contributed to the cake's distinct tenderness and slight acidity, enhancing its overall taste experience. Over the years, red velvet has evolved, becoming a beloved dessert for celebrations and special occasions.

The vibrant coloration of red velvet cake can be attributed to reactions between the cocoa powder and acidic ingredients like buttermilk or vinegar. During the 1920s, the cake began drawing attention due to its visually stunning appearance, often being featured at parties and festive gatherings. Popularized further by the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City, red velvet cake became a symbol of luxury and indulgence, cementing its place in American baking tradition.

Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cake

To achieve the best results, measure your ingredients accurately. For flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off without packing it down. This ensures that you aren't adding too much flour, which can lead to a dense cake. Additionally, using room temperature ingredients, such as eggs and buttermilk, will help create a smooth batter and contribute to a better rise during baking.

When mixing your batter, be cautious not to overmix it, as this can result in a tougher texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and you're on your way to a fluffy, soft cake. Also, don’t forget to rotate your pans halfway through baking, ensuring even cooking and perfect rise on both layers. Patience is key! Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting your frosting and ensure beautiful layers.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start baking to ensure a smooth process.

For the Cake

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

For the Frosting

1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1-2 tbsp milk (as needed)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a beautifully baked cake.

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 large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy. Adjust consistency with milk if needed.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate, spread a layer of frosting on top, and then layer the second cake on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve the cake at room temperature. Enjoy!

For best flavor, let the cake sit for a few hours before serving.

The Importance of Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese frosting is the perfect complement to red velvet cake, balancing its rich sweetness with a tangy kick. This frosting combines the smooth, creamy texture of cream cheese with butter for an irresistible combination. Its slight acidity enhances the flavor of the cake, making each bite memorable. Unlike traditional buttercream frosting, cream cheese frosting adds a unique character that elevates the overall dessert experience.

When preparing the frosting, it's crucial to allow both the cream cheese and butter to soften at room temperature. This ensures a smooth mix without any lumps. Be sure to taste your frosting as you go, adjusting the sweetness with powdered sugar or the richness with a splash of milk to get the perfect spreadable consistency.

Creative Variations

While the classic red velvet cake is incredibly delicious on its own, sometimes it's fun to mix things up a bit. Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache or raspberry compote between the cake layers for additional flavor profiles. Incorporating orange zest or other flavorings can also bring a refreshing twist to the traditional recipe, making it unique for any celebration.

For a fun and festive touch, try decorating the cake with colored piped frosting or edible glitter, especially for holidays or special occasions. You might also explore mini red velvet cupcakes, which are perfect for portion control and delightful presentation at events like showers or weddings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different food coloring?

Yes, you can choose to use gel or liquid food coloring as per your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.