Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

The Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream is a stunning dessert that brings joy to any occasion. With its rich color and delightful flavor, this cake stands out on birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays alike. The combination of moist layers and creamy frosting creates an irresistible treat that is sure to impress your guests while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The unique blend of cocoa powder and buttermilk creates a rich taste that makes every bite unforgettable.
• Eye-Catching Appearance: The vibrant red color makes it perfect for celebrations, ensuring your dessert becomes the centerpiece.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, even for beginner bakers, allowing you to create a stunning cake without stress.
• Versatile Frosting Options: The cream cheese buttercream can be adjusted for sweetness or flavor, making it customizable to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a family gathering, this cake fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make the baking process smoother, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer
• Cake pans (9-inch rounds)
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently. A larger bowl helps avoid spills while mixing.
• Electric mixer: Makes beating butter and cream cheese quick and easy, ensuring a smooth frosting without lumps.
• Cake pans: Proper-sized pans ensure even baking. Using the right size helps achieve the perfect cake height.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (300g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1 cup (360ml) vegetable oil
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring (liquid or gel)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Buttercream Frosting

(Enough for filling, crumb coat, and piping)
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 12 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
* 5-6 cups powdered sugar, sifted
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
* Pinch of salt
* 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional for fluffier texture)

How to Make Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry mixture:
1. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing for the best texture.
2. Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Bake in preheated oven for 28-35 minutes:
1. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with few crumbs attached, it’s done.
2. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

While cakes cool:
1. Beat softened butter and cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy (about 3-5 minutes).
2. Add vanilla extract and salt; blend well.
3. Gradually mix in sifted powdered sugar until fluffy; if needed, add heavy cream one teaspoon at a time to reach desired consistency.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Once cooled:
1. Level each cake layer if necessary.
2. Spread a generous layer of frosting between layers.
3. Apply a thin crumb coat over the entire cake; chill for 20-30 minutes.

Step 8: Final Frosting Touches

Frost the outside of the cake using smooth or textured finishes:
1. Use an offset spatula or cake comb to create beautiful designs.
2. Pipe decorative rosettes around the top edge using a large star tip.
3. Add decorations like edible gold flakes or sugar pearls as desired.

Now you’re ready to serve your delicious Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will make your cake shine.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of red velvet cake alongside fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

Ice Cream Delight

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a creamy contrast. The cold ice cream balances the rich flavors of the cake and frosting.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of indulgence. This light addition enhances the overall texture and taste.

Coffee or Tea

• Pair your cake with a warm cup of coffee or tea. The bitterness from coffee or the aromatic notes from tea can elevate your dessert experience.

Cake Pops

• Transform leftover cake into fun cake pops! Crumble the remaining cake and mix it with some frosting, then roll into balls and dip in chocolate for a bite-sized treat.

How to Perfect Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

Achieving the perfect Red Velvet Cake requires attention to detail and some baking know-how. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting helps remove lumps and incorporates air, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy. An uneven temperature can affect baking time and texture.
• Cool Properly: Let cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
• Experiment with Colors: If desired, add more food coloring for a deeper hue, but do so sparingly to avoid altering the flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

To complement your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream, consider serving it alongside these delicious side dishes that enhance its sweetness and richness.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the cake’s richness.
2. Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse offers a decadent pairing that satisfies chocolate lovers.
3. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites provide a creamy contrast while keeping dessert themes consistent.
4. Pecan Pie Bars: These sweet bars introduce nutty flavors that pair well with red velvet’s texture.
5. Lemon Tart: A zesty lemon tart refreshes the palate between bites of rich cake.
6. Vanilla Pudding: Smooth vanilla pudding is an easy side that complements both flavors and textures nicely.
7. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Serve with warm caramel sauce for drizzling over slices, adding an extra sweet touch.
8. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats bring tropical flair that contrasts nicely with the velvety cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and making Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream is no exception. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can lead to a dense cake. Always allow your ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create a tough texture. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just smooth for the best results.
• Not leveling the cake layers: Uneven layers can make frosting difficult. Use a serrated knife to level your cakes for a neat assembly.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes early to avoid overbaking, which can dry it out.
• Skipping the crumb coat: A crumb coat helps seal in crumbs and makes for a smoother finish. Don’t skip this step if you want a beautiful frosted cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing slices in briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream:

Can I use different food coloring?

You can! While red is traditional, other colors like blue or green can create unique variations of this classic cake.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

Can I make this Red Velvet Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time, store them properly, and frost them on the day you plan to serve.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for frosting?

If you prefer not to use heavy cream, you can substitute it with milk or omit it entirely; just beat the frosting longer for fluffiness.

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream is not only visually stunning but also deliciously moist and flavorful. Its versatility allows for various customization options such as adding nuts or different flavor extracts. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your baking skills!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the luxurious delight of Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Buttercream, a dessert that combines elegance and taste for any celebration. This stunning cake, with its vibrant red layers and smooth, creamy frosting, is sure to be the highlight of birthdays, anniversaries, and special gatherings. The unique blend of cocoa and buttermilk creates a rich flavor profile that leaves a lasting impression. Simple enough for novice bakers yet impressive enough for seasoned pros, this recipe offers versatility in frosting options to suit your palate. Whether served alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, every slice promises to satisfy your sweet cravings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (300g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 1 cup (360ml) vegetable oil
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring (liquid or gel)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 12 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
• 5–6 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional for fluffier texture)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans and line with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth.
4. Gradually combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients until just mixed; do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 28-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before preparing the frosting by beating softened butter and cream cheese until smooth; gradually mix in powdered sugar.
7. Frost between layers and cover the entire cake with the buttercream once cooled.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 415
• Sugar: 41g
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 65mg