This classic Red Velvet Cake features a moist, velvety crumb with a subtle cocoa flavor, a striking red hue, and a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion!

Red Velvet Cake Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour (sifted)
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp (10g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred)
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) vegetable oil (or melted butter for richer flavor)
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temp (or substitute: 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
• 2 large eggs, room temp
• 2 tbsp (30ml) red food coloring (liquid or gel for vibrant color)
• 2 tsp (10ml) vanilla extract
• 1 tsp (5ml) white vinegar (enhances rise and tang)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Garnish:

• Crushed pecans or walnuts
• Red velvet crumbs
• Fresh berries

How to Make Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep & Mix Dry Ingredients

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round pans (or a 9×13″ sheet pan).
2. In a bowl, whisk together:
   • Flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, mix:
   • Oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar.
2. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry, mixing until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 3: Bake

1. Divide batter evenly between pans.
2. Bake for 25-30 mins (or until a toothpick comes out clean).
3. Let cakes cool 10 mins in pans, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 4: Make Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Beat until fluffy.

Step 5: Assemble & Decorate

1. Once cakes are completely cooled, frost between layers and over the top.
2. Garnish with crushed nuts or red crumbs.

My Best Red Velvet Cake Recipe Tips

✔ Use gel food coloring for a deeper red without extra liquid.
✔ Don’t overbake—the cake should be moist, not dry.
✔ For extra tang, add 1 extra tbsp vinegar to the batter.
✔ Chill cakes before frosting for easier handling.

What to Serve with Red Velvet Cake

• Vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream & strawberries
• Hot coffee or milk

More Cake Recipes to Try

• Chocolate Fudge Cake
• Vanilla Bean Layer Cake
• Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Cake is a crowd-pleaser with its perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and richness. Slice, serve, and enjoy!