There’s something undeniably special about the festive allure of a Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. The moment I walk into a room and catch a whiff of that sweet cream cheese mingling with the rich, chocolatey undertones, I find myself transported to joyous celebrations—birthdays, anniversaries, or simply those cozy afternoons spent with friends over a slice of cake.
This particular recipe has become a cherished staple in my home, with its soft, moist layers crowned by a velvety cream cheese frosting that beckons you to take just one more bite. The vibrant red color isn’t just eye-catching; it’s an invitation to indulge in something utterly scrumptious. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next potluck or simply treating yourself on a quiet evening, this cake offers a delightful escape from the mundane routine of fast food. Let’s dive into this ultimate recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Why is Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting special?
Irresistible combination: The rich, smooth cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the moist, fluffy layers of the red velvet cake, creating a delightful contrast.
Showstopper for any occasion: This stunning cake steals the spotlight at gatherings and celebrations, making it a go-to recipe for impressing friends and family.
Versatile options: Whether you prefer it classic or with a twist, you can easily customize the frosting or even make a gluten-free version.
Easy to make: Simple steps mean you can whip up this impressive dessert without needing to be a baking expert.
Remember to check out my tips for achieving that flawless frosting to elevate your cake to the next level!
Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; consider gluten-free flour for a different texture.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds subtle chocolate notes; skip if a brighter color is desired.
• Baking soda – Essential for fluffiness; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; don’t skip it for enhanced flavor.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and adds moisture; alternatives may alter texture.
• Unsalted butter – Contributes richness; margarine works for a dairy-free option.
• Vegetable/canola oil – Keeps the cake moist; melted coconut oil can be a nice substitute.
• Large eggs and egg yolks – Provides binding and extra richness; vegan options are available.
• Liquid red food coloring – Creates the signature vibrant hue; gel food coloring is a more concentrated option.
• Buttermilk – Ensures moisture and adds tang; use milk mixed with vinegar for a quick substitute.
• Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
• Vinegar – Activates with baking soda for rising; apple cider vinegar is a great alternative.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream cheese – Forms the base of the frosting; ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; avoid other substitutes that might affect texture.
• Vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor; again, pure vanilla is recommended for superior taste.
This delectable Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire!
How to Make Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
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Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter three 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure the cake layers come out smoothly.
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Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a stand mixer, beat the granulated sugar and unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually pour in the vegetable oil and continue mixing. Add the large eggs one at a time, then incorporate the egg yolks and liquid red food coloring until fully blended.
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Combine: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and wet mixture to the batter, folding gently to maintain a light texture.
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Bake: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 26-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
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Frosting Preparation: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy and well combined. Chill briefly to help the frosting set.
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Final Assembly: Once the cake layers are completely cool, generously frost each layer with the cream cheese frosting, stacking them carefully. Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
Optional: For a stunning presentation, top with fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
There’s nothing quite like treating your loved ones to a stunning dessert while creating a memorable meal experience.
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Fresh Berries:
The bright tartness of strawberries or raspberries balances the cake’s sweetness, adding a refreshing bite with every forkful. -
Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully on the warm cake slice, offering a luxurious contrast to the soft, velvety texture. -
Chocolate Ganache Drizzle:
A rich chocolate ganache adds an extra layer of indulgence, enhancing the cake’s flavor and visual appeal with a glossy finish. -
Whipped Cream:
Light and airy whipped cream pairs perfectly with the dense cake and creamy frosting, creating a delightful balance of textures. -
Coffee or Espresso:
A freshly brewed cup of coffee complements the cake’s sweetness, cutting through richness while highlighting its cocoa notes. -
Cream Cheese Frosting Dippers:
Serve additional frosting alongside for a playful experience, perfect for spreading on cake bites or enjoying with fresh fruit.
Consider these pairings to elevate your dessert presentation and make every moment more memorable!
Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations
Feel free to make this already delightful recipe your own with these fun twists and substitutions!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make a cake that everyone can enjoy without compromise in flavor or texture.
- Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture and use a dairy-free cream cheese for a plant-based version that’s just as scrumptious.
- Chocolate Lover: Add an extra 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the batter for a richer chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.
- Berry Infusion: Mix in a cup of fresh raspberries or blueberries into the batter for fruity bursts of flavor and a lovely color contrast.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the cake mixture for an added crunch and nutty depth.
- Orange Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest into the frosting to add a citrusy brightness that perfectly complements the red velvet’s richness.
- Spicy Kick: For a warm twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cake batter for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness.
- Creamy Swirl: Layer in dollops of whipped cream between the cake layers for a light texture that’s a delightful surprise with each slice.
The beauty of this classic dessert lies in its versatility, so let your creativity bloom!
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during celebrations! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Simply bake and cool them completely, then wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. The cream cheese frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; just remember to give it a quick whisk before spreading for that smooth texture. When you’re ready to serve, frost the chilled layers and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy every bite of your delicious, make-ahead masterpiece!
Expert Tips for Red Velvet Cake
- Egg Whipping: Whip your eggs until they’re pale yellow to ensure a lighter and fluffier texture for the red velvet cake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing. This avoids lumps in your frosting.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Avoid packing your flour into the measuring cup; use a spoon to aerate and gently spoon it in to prevent a dense cake.
- Watch Baking Time: Start checking for doneness at the 25-minute mark. Overbaking can lead to dry cake layers.
- Layer Cooling: Always let your cake layers cool fully before frosting. This prevents the cream cheese frosting from melting and sliding off.
- Frosting Consistency: If your cream cheese frosting is too soft, chill it briefly before spreading to achieve the perfect consistency on your red velvet cake.
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Fridge: Keep the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This helps maintain its delicious moisture and prevents drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze unfrosted cake layers individually wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to two months. This helps preserve flavor and texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. If previously frozen, bring it to room temperature before serving to enjoy its full flavor.
Storage Tip: If you plan to serve later, consider waiting to frost until just before serving to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh and at its best texture.
Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ingredients for my Red Velvet Cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, make sure your ingredients are fresh. Look for all-purpose flour that’s unbleached, and when choosing cocoa powder, opt for a high-quality brand to ensure those rich chocolate notes shine through. The food coloring should be vibrant—gel is often preferred for its concentrated color. Check your eggs for freshness by doing the water test: a fresh egg sinks, while an older one floats.
How should I store leftover Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Very! After baking, store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This keeps it moist and delicious. If you find that the frosting is starting to get too soft, you can pop it back in the fridge for a little while to firm it back up. Also, if the cake will be consumed over several days, consider covering each slice with plastic wrap to keep it fresh without drying out.
Can I freeze my Red Velvet Cake?
The more the merrier! To freeze the cake layers, cool them completely first. Then, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then frost as desired. Remember, try to frost the cake just before serving for the best texture!
What if my cream cheese frosting is too soft?
No worries! If your cream cheese frosting is too soft to spread, chill it in the fridge for about 15–30 minutes to firm up. To avoid this issue in the first place, ensure your cream cheese is well-blended with the butter and that both are at room temperature. If it remains too soft even after chilling, you can mix in a little extra powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! For those with dietary restrictions, you can make a gluten-free version of this Red Velvet Cake by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you’re avoiding eggs or following a vegan diet, there are excellent egg replacers like ground flaxseed mixed with water that can work wonderfully. Just remember to read the labels on your ingredients to avoid any hidden allergens!
Can my pets enjoy any bit of this cake?
Definitely not! While it might be tempting to share, remember that ingredients like chocolate and sugar can be harmful to pets. It’s best to keep this decadent cake just for your human guests and find special treats for your furry friends!
Decadent Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter three 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a stand mixer, beat the granulated sugar and unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually pour in the vegetable oil and continue mixing. Add the large eggs one at a time, then incorporate the egg yolks and liquid red food coloring until fully blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and wet mixture to the batter, folding gently to maintain a light texture.
- Evenly divide the batter among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 26-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy and well combined. Chill briefly to help the frosting set.
- Once the cake layers are completely cool, generously frost each layer with the cream cheese frosting, stacking them carefully. Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.