Red Velvet Cream Cheese Bundt Cake – Best Recipe Ever

If you’re craving a showstopping dessert that’s equal parts indulgent and comforting, this Red Velvet Cream Cheese Bundt Cake is your new go-to. This rich, moist bundt cake swirls the iconic flavor and color of red velvet with a luscious cream cheese filling. It’s then topped with a decadent cream cheese glaze for the ultimate finish. Whether it’s for a holiday party, Valentine’s Day, or just because, this cake is a celebration in itself.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Bundt Cake

From texture to flavor and presentation, this red velvet cream cheese bundt cake checks all the boxes.

• Decadent Texture: A tender, velvety crumb meets a creamy filling, giving each bite a luxurious mouthfeel.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: The smooth filling adds a tangy contrast to the sweet cake base.
• Festive Yet Simple: With its deep red hue and elegant glaze, this cake feels festive without demanding elaborate decoration.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: It stores beautifully, making it ideal for holidays and entertaining.

Key Ingredients That Make It Irresistible

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the iconic flavor and texture of this red velvet bundt cake.

• Cream Cheese: Used in both the filling and icing, offering tangy richness.
• Butter: Adds flavor and aids in creaming the filling.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and cream cheese layer.
• Powdered Sugar: Ensures a smooth and glossy glaze.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the cake’s crumb.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Cocoa Powder: A subtle chocolate undertone that defines red velvet.
• Baking Soda: Provides lift and structure.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Sour Cream: Adds moisture and a slight tang.
• Whole Milk: Combines with vinegar for a homemade buttermilk substitute.
• Vinegar: Activates the baking soda and brightens the red hue.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the crumb incredibly moist.
• Red Gel Food Coloring: Provides vibrant color with just a few drops.
• Heavy Cream: Helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.

Ingredient Swaps for Flexibility

Don’t worry if you’re missing an ingredient—these substitutions still create an amazing red velvet cream cheese bundt cake.

• Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream: Slightly tangier but works beautifully.
• Buttermilk Instead of Milk + Vinegar: A direct swap if on hand.
• Melted Butter for Vegetable Oil: Adds flavor but results in a denser texture.
• Liquid Food Coloring for Gel: You’ll need a little more to achieve a bold red tone.

How to Make Red Velvet Cream Cheese Bundt Cake

Here’s how to make this stunning dessert from start to finish.

1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 350°F and thoroughly grease a 10-inch bundt pan with baking spray or butter and flour.
2. Prepare the Filling: Beat cream cheese, butter, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Mix in the egg, flour, and vanilla until smooth. Set aside.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine vegetable oil, eggs, sour cream, milk, vanilla extract, and vinegar.
5. Form the Batter: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring until just combined. Mix in red food coloring to reach your desired color.
6. Assemble the Cake: Pour half the batter into the prepared pan. Spoon the cream cheese mixture on top, leaving a 1-inch border. Add the rest of the batter and lightly swirl the layers with a knife.
7. Bake: Place on the middle rack and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool Completely: Let the cake cool entirely in the pan before inverting onto a cake plate.
9. Make the Glaze: Beat powdered sugar, cream cheese, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pipe or drizzle over the cooled cake.
10. Serve: Slice and enjoy! Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Pro Baking Tips for Best Results

Achieve bundt cake perfection with these simple tips that elevate the end result.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth batter and filling.
• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing can cause a dense texture. Mix just until combined.
• Grease Every Crevice: Bundt pans can be tricky—thorough greasing is essential for a clean release.
• Let It Cool: Allow the cake to fully cool before inverting to avoid breakage.
• Swirl Gently: Don’t overdo it—too much swirling can blend the layers.

What to Serve With Red Velvet Bundt Cake

Enhance the cake’s flavors with these pairings and variations.

• Toppings: Add chopped pecans, shaved chocolate, or festive sprinkles.
• Side Ideas: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for contrast.
• Flavor Enhancers: Add mini chocolate chips or espresso powder to deepen the flavor.
• Texture Variations: Fold in chopped walnuts for a crunchier bite.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Seasonal & Celebration Ideas

This red velvet cream cheese bundt cake is a holiday showstopper that fits seamlessly into any seasonal table.

• Christmas: Use red and green sprinkles and serve on a decorative cake stand.
• Valentine’s Day: Add pink glaze or heart-shaped sprinkles.
• 4th of July: Garnish with blueberries and strawberries for a patriotic twist.
• Birthdays & Anniversaries: Add candles or edible gold leaf for a more luxurious presentation.

How to Store & Freeze This Bundt Cake

Make this red velvet bundt cake ahead of time and keep it fresh with these storage tips.

• Refrigerator: Wrap in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• To Serve: Let come to room temperature for 30 minutes before slicing.
• Freezer: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

This Red Velvet Cream Cheese Bundt Cake blends elegance, flavor, and simplicity into one unforgettable dessert. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a personal treat, this cake delivers stunning visuals and even better taste every time.

Conclusion

This Red Velvet Cream Cheese Bundt Cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a crowd-pleasing centerpiece perfect for celebrations, holidays, or indulgent weekends. The luscious swirl of cream cheese through the vibrant red velvet batter creates a stunning visual and flavor contrast that guests won’t soon forget. Paired with a silky cream cheese glaze, every bite is rich, moist, and undeniably delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying this style of cake for the first time, this recipe is simple to follow and delivers bakery-level results right from your home kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Red and White Valentine’s Day Cake: A visually striking cake that’s perfect for romantic celebrations. It shares a similar red velvet-inspired color palette and festive flair, making it a great alternative or companion to the Red Velvet Cream Cheese Bundt Cake.
• Boozy Eggnog Bundt Cake: This holiday-themed bundt cake offers a moist crumb and creamy richness, similar in texture and indulgence to a red velvet cream cheese bundt cake, with a spiced eggnog twist.
• Pineapple Cream Cheese Pound Cake: Combining tropical fruitiness with a dense, moist cake and cream cheese goodness, this recipe complements the creamy swirl element found in red velvet bundt cakes while offering a unique flavor profile.

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