Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Red Velvet Cake is one of the most iconic desserts ever. With its rich red color, moist crumb, and creamy tang from the frosting, it’s hard to resist. Many people think red velvet is a flavor of its own, but it’s actually a light chocolate cake with a slightly tangy taste created by vinegar and buttermilk.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a soft, bakery-style red velvet cake with a smooth cream cheese frosting perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any sweet craving.

Tools You’ll Need

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Make the Buttermilk Substitute

In a small bowl, combine ½ cup milk and 2 tsp apple cider vinegar. Let it rest for 5 minutes until it curdles slightly. This creates a tangy base that gives red velvet its signature flavor.

Step 2: Sift the Dry Ingredients

Sift together flour, salt, cocoa powder, and baking soda to remove clumps and ensure an even mix. This step keeps your batter light and fluffy.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat softened butter with sugar until creamy and pale. Scrape the sides to mix everything well.

Step 4: Add Egg and Oil

Add one egg and beat again. Slowly drizzle in the neutral oil, mixing until smooth. This blend of butter and oil keeps the cake extra moist.

Step 5: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk-vinegar mixture and vanilla extract. Stir gently to combine.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients in two parts. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake soft.

Step 7: Add the Red Color

Mix in red food coloring gel until the batter turns evenly red. The gel type keeps the consistency perfect for baking.

Step 8: Prepare and Fill the Pans

Grease your pans with a thin layer of oil. Pour the batter evenly (use a scale for accuracy if you want). Smooth the top for even baking.

Step 9: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.

Step 10: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add sifted powdered sugar, salt, vanilla, and heavy cream. Mix until light and fluffy. Chill for 10–15 minutes before use.

Step 11: Frost and Layer

Level your cake layers. Add frosting between them, spread evenly, and then coat the sides. Use a spatula and cake turner for a smooth finish. Add patterns if you like a professional look.

Final Thoughts:

This Red Velvet Cake recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and velvety smooth. Every bite delivers a moist sponge with a hint of cocoa and a creamy, slightly tart frosting that melts in your mouth. It’s not just a dessert it’s a show-stopping centerpiece that impresses at birthdays, parties, and special occasions.

The combination of buttermilk, vinegar, and cocoa powder gives the cake its unique flavor and soft texture, while the cream cheese frosting adds a rich and luxurious finish. What makes this recipe stand out is how simple and foolproof it is even beginners can bake it with confidence.

Whether you bake it for a loved one or just to treat yourself, this homemade red velvet cake will make everyone fall in love with its vibrant color and unforgettable taste. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions again.