← Back to Recipes
Classic Red Velvet Cake

Classic Red Velvet Cake

A striking red velvet cake with a tender, slightly cocoa-flavored crumb and tangy cream cheese frosting. The dramatic red color and velvety texture make this a showstopping dessert for Valentine's Day, Christmas, or any special occasion.

MediumPrep: 35 minCook: 30 minServes: 12
red velvetcream cheeseclassicvalentinestriking

Ingredients

  • 13 cups all-purpose flour
  • 21 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 31/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 41 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 51 teaspoon salt
  • 61 cup vegetable oil
  • 71 cup buttermilk
  • 84 large eggs
  • 92 oz red food coloring
  • 102 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 111 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 12For the frosting: 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 131 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 144 cups powdered sugar
  • 152 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

1

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.

2

Sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.

3

In a separate bowl, whisk the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar.

4

Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.

5

Divide the batter among the three prepared pans.

6

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7

Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

8

For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

9

Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until light and fluffy.

10

Frost between each layer and the outside of the cake. Chill before serving for best results.