Red Velvet Cake Recipe From Scratch

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 05, 2025

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Red Velvet Cake Recipe from Scratch: A Decadent Delight

Are you ready to bake the most luscious, intensely flavored red velvet cake from scratch? This recipe will guide you through creating a moist, tender crumb with that signature tangy-sweet flavor, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Forget boxed mixes; this is the real deal. Let's get started!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, ensuring a straightforward baking experience. Here's your shopping list:

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour – The foundation for a perfect texture.
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar – For that delightful sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds depth and richness to the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – The leavening agent for a light and airy cake.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk – Provides moisture and a tender crumb.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil – Adds richness and keeps the cake moist.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – A touch of warmth and deliciousness.
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring – Achieving that iconic red velvet hue.
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar – Reacts with the baking soda for a light texture.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 16 ounces (450g) cream cheese, softened – The creamy base for our frosting.
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – For a smooth and fluffy consistency.
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar – The sweetness to balance the tangy cream cheese.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Elevating the flavor profile of the frosting.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:

Making the Red Velvet Cake:

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
2. Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Thoroughly combining these dry ingredients is key to an even texture.
3. Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, food coloring, and vinegar.
4. Combine: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
5. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat the Butter & Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined. Then, increase the speed to medium-high and beat for another 2-3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
3. Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract.

Frosting the Cake:

1. Level Cakes (Optional): If your cake layers are uneven, use a serrated knife to level them.
2. Frosting: Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one layer with a generous amount of cream cheese frosting. Carefully place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.

Tips for Red Velvet Cake Success:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for optimal mixing and a smoother frosting.
• Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
• Cool Completely: Make sure your cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

This recipe will help you create a show-stopping red velvet cake that's sure to impress. Enjoy baking, and don't forget to share your delicious creation with friends and family! Happy baking!