Ultra Moist Red Velvet Cake

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the ultimate in baking with this ultra moist red velvet cake recipe, featuring a decadent chocolate undertone and velvety texture. Topped with rich and creamy cream cheese frosting, this stunning dessert is perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat just because. Make your celebrations memorable with this classic favorite that is as beautiful as it is delicious!

Emma Johnson

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T02:01:11.059Z

This red velvet cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience. The intense flavor combined with a luxurious texture makes it a favorite for any celebration.

The Magic of Red Velvet

Red velvet cake is more than just a culinary delight; it's a visual spectacle that has captured the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere. With its striking red hue, it stands out on any table, making it a perfect centerpiece for celebrations and gatherings. This classic cake balances the richness of chocolate with a hint of vanilla, resulting in a flavor profile that is both unique and delicious.

Originally popularized in the southern United States, the allure of red velvet has transcended geographical boundaries. Its moist texture, complemented by the tangy flavor of cream cheese frosting, creates a delightful experience with each bite. The combination of color, texture, and taste is what makes red velvet cake a timeless dessert that continues to win over both young and old.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cake

To achieve a truly ultra moist red velvet cake, it’s essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help you avoid the pitfalls of overly dense or too airy cakes. Also, always remember to sift your dry ingredients to prevent clumping, which contributes to a smoother batter and ultimately a better cake.

Don't forget the cooling process; allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting. This step is crucial, as warm cakes can melt your frosting, resulting in a messy presentation. A chilled cake also holds the frosting better, ensuring a smoother application. For a more professional finish, consider using a bench scraper to create a clean edge on your frosted cake.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your ultra moist red velvet cake is frosted and beautifully presented, serving it fresh is ideal. However, if you need to store leftovers (if there are any!), make sure to refrigerate them in an airtight container. Properly stored, your cake can last up to a week in the fridge, maintaining its flavor and moisture.

When it comes time to serve, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for the best flavor experience. Pairing your red velvet cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes for a delightful afternoon treat, or you can serve it as a stunning dessert at dinner parties or special events that will leave your guests raving.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you begin to ensure a smooth baking process.

For the Cake

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to create a masterpiece!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for best results.

Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until well mixed.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Add Vinegar

Stir the white vinegar into the batter gently.

Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting

In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until fluffy.

Assemble the Cake

Once cooled, layer the cakes with frosting in between and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

Enjoy your cake by serving slices and sharing with loved ones!

Flavor Variations

While the classic red velvet cake is a favorite on its own, there are countless variations you can explore. Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache or incorporating fresh berries for extra flavor and color. A hint of espresso powder can amplify the chocolate undertones, providing a rich depth that's simply irresistible.

For those who enjoy a bit of creativity, experimenting with different frostings can elevate your red velvet experience even further. While cream cheese frosting is the traditional choice, vanilla buttercream or a chocolate frosting can lend unique twists, making each cake unique while still retaining that unforgettable red velvet essence.

Perfect Pairings

To enhance your red velvet cake experience, consider serving it with complementary flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast that balances the cake's rich texture. Additionally, fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries can introduce a bright tartness, making for a well-rounded dessert plate.

Pairing your cake with beverages should not be overlooked. A light, fruity wine or a robust dark roast coffee can elevate the dining experience, enhancing the cake’s flavors. Whether it's at a cozy gathering or a lavish celebration, these pairings are sure to impress and delight your guests.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural cocoa powder instead of Dutch-process?

Yes, but the taste and color may vary slightly.

→ How do I store the leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Ultra Moist Red Velvet Cake

Experience the ultimate in baking with this ultra moist red velvet cake recipe, featuring a decadent chocolate undertone and velvety texture. Topped with rich and creamy cream cheese frosting, this stunning dessert is perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat just because. Make your celebrations memorable with this classic favorite that is as beautiful as it is delicious!

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time50 minutes

Created by: Emma Johnson

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 12 servings

What You'll Need

For the Cake

  1. 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  3. 1 cup vegetable oil
  4. 1 cup buttermilk
  5. 2 large eggs
  6. 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  7. 1 teaspoon baking soda
  8. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  9. 1 teaspoon salt
  10. 1 tablespoon red food coloring
  11. 1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  2. ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  3. 4 cups powdered sugar
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract until well mixed.

Step 03

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 04

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 05

Stir the white vinegar into the batter gently.

Step 06

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 07

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 08

In a bowl, beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until fluffy.

Step 09

Once cooled, layer the cakes with frosting in between and cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 30g
  • Protein: 4g