Moist, tender layers of classic red velvet cake made with tangy buttermilk and rich cocoa, finished with silky cream cheese frosting. A timeless showstopper for every celebration.

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🍰 Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cake:

• 2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp fine salt

• 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1½ cups (360 ml) vegetable oil

• 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature

• 2 large eggs, at room temperature

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) red food coloring (liquid or gel)

• 1 tsp white distilled vinegar

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened

• 16 oz (450 g) cream cheese, softened

• 5 cups (600 g) powdered sugar

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Whisk just until combined—do not overmix to keep the cake light and tender.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.

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

3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy (about 3 minutes).

2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until fully incorporated.

3. Mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, then beat for another 2 minutes until light and creamy.

4. If the frosting is too soft, chill it for 10–15 minutes before using.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Level the tops of the cake layers with a serrated knife if needed.

2. Place the first cake layer on a serving board or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.

3. Repeat with the second and third layers.

4. Apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) over the entire cake. Chill for 20 minutes to set.

5. Apply the final layer of frosting and smooth it out with an offset spatula.

6. Decorate with piped frosting swirls and red velvet cake crumbs for a classic finish.

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🎉 Serving & Storage

• Serve at room temperature for best texture.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered. Bring to room temp before serving.

• Can be made a day in advance and decorated the next day.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love It

• Incredibly moist and flavorful with the perfect balance of cocoa and tang.

• Lush cream cheese frosting brings just the right amount of sweetness.

• Beautifully red and visually striking for birthdays, holidays, or Valentine’s Day.