Name: Red Velvet Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup plain hot coffee or boiling water; ¼ cup (21 grams) unsweetened natural cocoa powder; 2 ¼ cups (279 grams) all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); 2 cups (400 grams) granulated sugar; ½ cup (109 grams) fresh vegetable oil; 1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature; 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 teaspoons red gel food coloring (plus more if needed); 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar; 16 ounces (454 grams) cream cheese, at room temperature; 2 sticks (227 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 4 cups (500 grams) powdered sugar, sifted

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 64 reviews

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate showstopper dessert, this Red Velvet Cake Recipe is your new best friend. Its stunning deep red hue paired with that luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting creates a treat that both looks and tastes like a celebration in every bite. The cake balances just the right amount of cocoa with a velvety texture that melts on your tongue, making it a timeless classic that’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any day you want to make memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A shiny metal bowl filled with smooth, thick red batter showing swirls from mixing, and a whisk dipped into the batter resting against the side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with light grey patterns visible. The batter has a rich, even texture with a few small bubbles near the surface and some batter taken up on the side of the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Red Velvet Cake Recipe shines because of its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in crafting the cake’s moist texture, vibrant color, and unforgettable flavor.

Plain hot coffee or boiling water: Enhances the cocoa flavor and deepens the cake’s color, adding a subtle richness.
Unsweetened natural cocoa powder: The essential ingredient that gives the cake its classic chocolate undertone.
All-purpose flour: Provides structure, creating that perfect crumb that’s not too dense nor too airy.
Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents that ensure your cake rises beautifully and stays tender.
Salt: Balances sweetness and accentuates flavors.
Ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a warm, subtle spice that complements the cocoa.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its moist crumb.
Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender far beyond baking day.
Unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and silky texture.
Large eggs and egg yolk: Bind ingredients and give the cake structure while adding richness.
Buttermilk: Provides acidity to tenderize the crumb and react with leaveners for lift.
Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Red gel food coloring: The star of the show for that signature red vibrancy; gel versions give deeper color without extra liquid.
Distilled white vinegar: Activates the baking soda and intensifies the cake’s tender crumb.
Cream cheese: For the rich, tangy frosting that perfectly complements the cake’s subtle cocoa notes.
Unsalted butter (for frosting): Adds creamy texture and richness to the frosting.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and ensures it’s light and fluffy.

How to Make Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment rounds and generously spray with a nonstick cooking spray. This prep ensures your cakes won’t stick and come out perfectly shaped every time.

Step 2: Mix the Cocoa and Coffee

Whisk together the hot coffee and unsweetened cocoa powder in a glass measuring cup until smooth, then cover it and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This mixture deepens your cake’s flavor and adds moisture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon. Sifting or whisking these together ensures even distribution to help your cake rise beautifully and bake evenly.

Step 4: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk the sugar, vegetable oil, and melted butter. Add in the eggs and egg yolk, beating well to integrate. Stir in the buttermilk, vanilla extract, red gel food coloring, and vinegar. Finally, incorporate the coffee and cocoa mixture. This combination creates that luscious, red, and flavorful base for your cake.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift the flour mixture into your wet batter in three increments, stirring gently after each addition until fully combined but don’t overmix. This careful folding keeps the cake tender and light.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Tap the pans on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles and slide them into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the Layers

Remove the pans from the oven and place them on racks. Once cool enough to handle, run a thin knife around the edges and invert the cakes onto wire racks to cool completely. This step is key for clean, smooth cake layers perfect for stacking.

Step 8: Make the Frosting

In your mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter on medium-high until fluffy, then add vanilla. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low until the frosting is airy and smooth. Adjust thickness by adding a splash of milk or more powdered sugar as needed. This frosting is the hallmark of your Red Velvet Cake Recipe, bright, tangy, with just the right balance of sweetness.

Step 9: Assemble Your Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and apply a third of the frosting evenly on top. Repeat with the second layer, then place the final layer on top. Use remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the whole cake beautifully. For tidiness, tuck strips of parchment under the edges to catch excess frosting while decorating.

How to Serve Red Velvet Cake Recipe

A three-layer red velvet cake with deep red, moist sponge layers separated by smooth, thick white cream frosting, all covered in an even, creamy white frosting around the outside. The top of the cake is decorated with small gold and white round sprinkles scattered evenly. The cake sits on a white marble cake stand, with a slice being lifted by a fork. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a stunning presentation, adorn your Red Velvet Cake Recipe with fresh berries, edible flowers, or a simple dusting of cocoa powder. These add a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich cream cheese frosting that your guests will adore.

Side Dishes

Serve this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch. Light, fruit-based salads work well too, balancing sweetness with a refreshing bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking cupcakes with the same flavors and frosting for a bite-sized version of this Red Velvet Cake Recipe. Or create individual parfaits by layering crumbled cake with frosting and berries in glass jars—a show-stopping way to delight your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will maintain moisture in the cake and keep the frosting fresh for up to 4 days, making it just as delicious later on.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake layers without frosting by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before assembling and frosting to enjoy the same fresh-baked taste.

Reheating

To enjoy warm cake, let refrigerated or thawed slices come to room temperature, then microwave for about 15 seconds. The frosting will soften, and the cake will become wonderfully tender — perfect if you like it a bit warm!

FAQs

Can I make this Red Velvet Cake Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, and make sure other ingredients are gluten-free. You may need to adjust baking time slightly depending on your blend.

Why does red velvet cake taste different from chocolate cake?

While red velvet contains cocoa, it’s less chocolatey and incorporates buttermilk and vinegar, giving it a unique tangy flavor and tender crumb distinct from traditional chocolate cake.

Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel?

You can, but gel food coloring provides a richer color without adding extra liquid that might affect the batter. If using liquid food coloring, add carefully to avoid altering the texture.

Is it necessary to add coffee to the batter?

Coffee intensifies the cocoa flavor but doesn’t make the cake taste like coffee. If you prefer, you can substitute hot water instead, though coffee enhances the depth of flavor beautifully.

How do I prevent my Red Velvet Cake from drying out?

Use fresh ingredients and don’t overbake. Proper measuring, room temperature ingredients, and a moist crumb come from the oil and buttermilk. Also, store leftovers tightly wrapped to maintain moisture.

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor, color, and indulgence all baked into one beautiful creation. Whether you’re sharing with family, friends, or savoring it solo, making this cake is a rewarding experience that promises smiles and sweet memories. Go ahead and give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!