Ina Garten Red Velvet Cake

Name: Ina Garten Red Velvet Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12.0
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cocoa powder; 1 ½ cups vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 2 tablespoons red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature; 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight your guests with Ina Garten's decadent Red Velvet Cake, featuring a rich, moist crumb and velvety cream cheese frosting. This classic dessert is perfect for celebrations or as a sweet treat to enjoy anytime. With its stunning red layers, it's not just a cake—it's a showstopper that will impress at any gathering.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-17T04:05:05.971Z

Ina Garten's Red Velvet Cake is a beloved classic that brings joy to any occasion. The combination of its vibrant color, soft texture, and creamy frosting makes it a standout dessert.

The History of Red Velvet Cake

Red velvet cake has a storied history that dates back to the 1800s, originating in the southern United States. Its striking red color was originally achieved using cocoa powder that reacted with acidic ingredients like buttermilk. While the recipe has evolved over the years, the unique combination of flavors and textures remains a classic favorite.

This cake gained popularity during the 1920s, particularly after the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel started serving it. It soon became a symbol of indulgence and celebration, making appearances at weddings and special occasions. Today, red velvet cake is beloved worldwide, cherished not only for its taste but also its vibrant aesthetic.

Tips for Baking the Perfect Red Velvet Cake

To ensure your red velvet cake turns out perfectly, use room temperature ingredients. This helps create a smooth batter that combines well, resulting in a tender and moist cake. Make sure your buttermilk, eggs, and even butter are at room temperature before you start mixing.

It's also important to measure your ingredients accurately. Use a kitchen scale if possible or follow the scoop and level method for dry ingredients to avoid packing flour into your measuring cup. Proper measurements are key to achieving the right texture and flavor in the cake.

Serving Suggestions

Red velvet cake can be elevated with creative serving suggestions. Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast between the warm cake and cold ice cream. Alternatively, serving it with fresh berries can add a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the frosting.

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a drizzle of chocolate glaze or a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top of the frosting. These small additions can make a big difference in presentation and taste, ensuring your red velvet cake is as delicious as it is beautiful.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1 ½ cups vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar

Frosting Ingredients

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

Gather all the ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking process.

Instructions

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 medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the oil, sugar, and eggs until well combined. Then add the buttermilk, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla, mixing until smooth.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Make the Frosting

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread frosting on top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice the cake and serve to your guests. Enjoy the rich flavors!

Make sure to refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container.

Storage Tips

After your red velvet cake has been baked and decorated, proper storage is key to keeping it fresh. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to consume it within a few days. If you have leftovers or want to keep the cake longer, consider refrigerating it to maintain its moisture and flavor.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cake. Slice it into individual portions and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag. This way, you can easily enjoy a piece of your decadent cake whenever the craving strikes!

Variations to Try

While Ina Garten's recipe is a classic, feel free to experiment with variations. You can create a red velvet layer cake by adding additional layers, or try making red velvet cupcakes for a portable version. Each cupcake can be topped with cream cheese frosting and even a sprinkle of red velvet crumbs for an eye-catching effect.

For a unique twist, consider infusing your cake with flavored oils or extracts, such as almond or orange. These subtle changes can add exciting dimensions to the traditional flavor profile, making every bite a delightful surprise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes, you can try using buttercream or ganache if you prefer.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.