Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – Easy Recipe

Red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting is the epitome of indulgence—soft, moist, and decadently delicious. Its stunning, vibrant red color and the tangy sweetness of cream cheese frosting make it an irresistible treat for special occasions, celebrations, or simply as a way to brighten up your day. This cake is not only visually appealing but also remarkably simple to make, with just a few ingredients coming together to create a show-stopping dessert. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced pastry chef, this red velvet cake recipe is sure to impress.

Why Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the Perfect Dessert

What makes this red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting such a favorite? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The slightly tangy buttermilk, the richness of cocoa powder, and the moist crumb of the cake combined with the smooth, creamy, and slightly tart cream cheese frosting create a dessert that’s both flavorful and light. Moreover, this cake is versatile enough to be served at birthdays, holidays, or even casual gatherings. It’s an impressive dessert that feeds a crowd and is simple to prepare.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

To make this luscious red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Red Velvet Cake

• Plain / All-purpose flour: Provides the base structure of the cake, creating a soft yet stable crumb.
• Corn starch / Cornflour: Adds softness, mimicking cake flour to keep the texture light and airy.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: A rich chocolate flavor that complements the tangy frosting.
• Baking soda / Bicarbonate of soda: Helps the cake rise and gives the cake its signature light texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Canola oil: Adds moisture without altering the flavor; any flavorless oil can be substituted.

• Unsalted butter (melted): Gives the cake a rich, buttery flavor that complements the oil.
• Caster / superfine sugar: Ensures a smooth batter and moist cake.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together while providing moisture and structure.
• White vinegar: Works with the baking soda to create the right texture and helps intensify the red color.
• Buttermilk: The key ingredient for a tender, flavorful cake with a slight tang.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor profile.
• Red food coloring (liquid or gel): Gives the cake its iconic vibrant red color.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• Unsalted butter (room temperature): Provides richness and smoothness to the frosting.
• Cream cheese (block form): The main ingredient for the frosting, contributing to its signature tanginess.
• Icing / Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Lemon juice: Enhances the tang of the cream cheese and adds a fresh note to the frosting.
• Vanilla extract: For a touch of flavor that complements the cream cheese.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing a few ingredients or looking for variations to suit dietary needs, here are some swaps:

• Buttermilk: If you’re unable to find buttermilk, use regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup of milk, and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Butter substitutes: You can replace unsalted butter with margarine or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free version of the cake.
• Red food coloring: For a natural alternative, consider using beetroot juice, though the color may be slightly different.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting:

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) for fan-forced or 180°C (355°F) for standard ovens. Grease and line two 20 cm (8-inch) cake pans with baking paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, corn starch, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the canola oil and melted butter until well combined. Add the sugar, eggs, vinegar, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, whisking until smooth. Be careful not to overmix the batter; it’s okay to have a few lumps.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat together the butter and cream cheese in an electric mixer (or using a hand mixer) until thick, pale, and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until the frosting is smooth, pale, and thick, about 5 minutes.
3. If needed, adjust the frosting consistency by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or a little more lemon juice for a tangy kick.

Assembling the Cake

1. If the cakes have domed during baking, level the tops with a serrated knife. Place one cake layer on a flat serving plate.
2. Spread one-quarter of the cream cheese frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top, flipping it upside down for an even surface.
3. Spread half of the remaining frosting over the top, then use the rest to cover the sides of the cake.
4. For an extra touch, crumble any leftover cake scraps and sprinkle them over the top and sides of the cake.
5. Refrigerate the cake for 1-2 hours, or until the frosting is firm. Store the cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until combined.
• Use fresh baking soda: Expired baking soda can cause your cake to be dense or sink.
• Check for doneness: Since red velvet cakes don’t brown much, use a skewer to check for doneness.
• Keep the frosting chilled: If your frosting is too soft, chill it briefly to firm it up before spreading it on the cake.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This cake is versatile, and you can easily create variations or serve it with delicious sides:

• Side dishes: Fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries complement the richness of the cake.
• Toppings: Add a drizzle of chocolate ganache or caramel sauce for extra flavor and indulgence.
• Make-ahead option: The cake layers can be baked in advance and stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. Simply frost them when you’re ready to serve.
• Red velvet cupcakes: Use the same recipe to make red velvet cupcakes by dividing the batter into cupcake tins and adjusting the baking time to 18-20 minutes.

Conclusion: Why Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the Ultimate Dessert

Red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting is a true showstopper. It strikes the perfect balance between rich cocoa flavor and tangy cream cheese, creating a dessert that’s moist, tender, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or as a treat to indulge in, this recipe will impress everyone with its vibrant red hue and melt-in-your-mouth frosting. Plus, it’s simple to make, requiring only a few easy-to-find ingredients. This red velvet cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a masterpiece that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

More Relevant Recipes

• Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe: These pumpkin cheesecake bars are a perfect autumn treat, offering a creamy, spiced filling with a buttery crust. The combination of rich cheesecake and pumpkin flavors is a great match for the sweet and tangy red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting.
• Apple Cider Cheesecake – Perfect Fall Dessert: If you love creamy desserts with a seasonal twist, this apple cider cheesecake will surely satisfy. It combines the richness of cheesecake with the crisp, warming flavors of apple cider, similar in texture and indulgence to red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting.
• Salted Caramel No-Bake Cheesecake: For a dessert that’s just as indulgent without the baking, try this salted caramel no-bake cheesecake. The creamy, rich texture and sweet caramel notes offer a delightful contrast to the tangy cream cheese frosting on red velvet cake.

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