Best Easy Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Rich, velvety red velvet cake layered with tangy cream cheese frosting is an iconic Southern family celebration dessert. This stunning cake is a must-have for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions.

Cook 100 min Difficulty NORMAL 430 kcal
#vegetarian
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • all-purpose flour 2.5 cups
  • granulated sugar 1.5 cups
  • unsalted butter 0.5 cups
  • vegetable oil 0.5 cups
  • large eggs 2 pieces
  • buttermilk 1 cup
  • red food coloring 2 tbsp
  • baking soda 1 tsp
  • white vinegar 1 tsp
  • unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tbsp
  • cream cheese 16 oz
  • powdered sugar 4 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • vanilla extract 2 tsp
  • salt 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 54 g 50%
Protein 6 g 6%
Fat 22 g 44%
Serving size 130g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and a dusting of flour.

  2. 2

    In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure a uniform crumb.

  3. 3

    In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, then beat in eggs one at a time.

  4. 4

    Mix in the oil, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring, blending thoroughly to achieve a smooth batter.

  5. 5

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low; combine vinegar at the end and stir just to incorporate.

  6. 6

    Divide batter evenly between pans and bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes, testing with a toothpick for doneness in the center; avoid overbaking.

  7. 7

    Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely and prevent frosting from melting.

  8. 8

    For the frosting, beat cream cheese and remaining butter in a bowl until creamy, then slowly add powdered sugar and 1 tsp vanilla for a fluffy, spreadable frosting.

  9. 9

    Layer one cake round with frosting, top with second cake, and frost the top and sides evenly.

  10. 10

    Chill assembled cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing to ensure defined layers and easy cutting.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient that creates the signature flavor and texture of Red Velvet Cake?
The combination of buttermilk and a touch of cocoa powder defines Red Velvet Cake’s tender, moist crumb and distinctive flavor. The acidity from buttermilk reacts with baking soda for a fluffy texture, while the cocoa adds subtle depth without overwhelming the cake as a chocolate dessert.
Q. How do I ensure my Red Velvet Cake is moist without overbaking?
Achieve a moist cake by baking at 350°F and checking doneness after 30 minutes with a toothpick inserted in the center—look for a few moist crumbs, not a dry stick. Cool the cakes in pans for 10 minutes before turning out, as this prevents excessive moisture loss and keeps the crumb tender.
Q. What’s the best approach for a smooth and fluffy cream cheese frosting?
Start with room temperature cream cheese and butter, beating them until creamy before gradually adding powdered sugar and vanilla. This method yields a frosting that’s easy to spread and creates a light finish, while chilling the assembled cake helps set the layers for clean slicing.
Q. How many calories and what is the macronutrient breakdown per serving?
Each serving of this Red Velvet Cake provides approximately 430 kcal, with about 54g of carbohydrates (50% of calories), 6g of protein (6%), and 22g of fat (44%). It’s a balanced treat meant for special occasions rather than everyday enjoyment.
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