Red Velvet Cake Recipe

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Indulge in the iconic Red Velvet Cake, a show-stopping dessert that perfectly blends rich cocoa flavors with a vivid crimson hue. Topped with luxurious cream cheese frosting, this cake is a favorite for celebrations, providing a stunning centerpiece and a decadent taste experience.

Ingredients:

  • For the Cake:
    • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon fine salt
    • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
    • 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
    • 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
    • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
    • 2 tablespoons red food coloring
    • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
    • 1/2 cup butter, softened
    • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
    • 4 cups powdered sugar
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  3. In another large bowl, whisk together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla.
  4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined and a smooth batter is formed.
  5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
  8. While the cakes cool, make the frosting: Beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
  9. Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one cake layer, place the other layer on top, and then frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

Variations:

  • Add a hint of espresso powder to the cake batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.
  • Mix chopped pecans or coconut into the frosting for added texture.

Serving Tips:

  • Serve the cake at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
  • Garnish with fresh berries or red velvet crumbs for an elegant touch.

Storage Tips:

  • Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information:

  • Red Velvet Cake is a treat meant for special occasions. While it’s not particularly health-focused, it provides energy primarily from fats and carbohydrates.
  • A single serving (1 slice) approximately contains 400-500 calories, varying by size and ingredients used.

FAQs:

  • Can I make this cake without food coloring? Yes, you can omit the food coloring; the cake will have a light chocolate color but still taste great.
  • Can I use beet juice instead of food dye? Yes, beet juice can be a natural alternative for red food coloring, though it might alter the flavor slightly.

Conclusion:

This Red Velvet Cake recipe provides a luxurious dessert perfect for any festive occasion. With its eye-catching color and sumptuous layers of creamy frosting, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.