Best Red Velvet Cake – Moist and Flavorful Homemade Dessert
Red Velvet Cake is a classic dessert with its deep red color and velvety texture that makes it perfect for special occasions or simply indulging in a delicious homemade treat. With a hint of cocoa, tangy cream cheese frosting, and a moist crumb, this cake is both flavorful and visually striking. Whether you're making it for a holiday, a celebration, or just because, this recipe will guide you through creating a perfect Red Velvet Cake at home.
Ingredients
-
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
-
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
Prepare the Oven and Pans. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix the Dry Ingredients. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
Combine Wet Ingredients. In another bowl, whisk together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.
Mix the Batter. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix to ensure the cake remains tender.
Bake the Cake. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Serve. Slice and enjoy your rich and moist Red Velvet Cake!
Recipe tips
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes. A teaspoon of coffee powder can be added to the batter to enhance the cocoa flavor without overpowering the cake. Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before making the frosting for a smoother texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Fudge brownies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate flavor and chewy texture. These decadent treats are easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re baking them for a snack, a dessert, or a special occasion, these brownies are sure to satisfy any chocolate craving. The secret to their moist and fudgy center lies in using real butter and high-quality chocolate. Follow these steps for a batch of irresistible brownies that will impress everyone!
This rich and moist chocolate cake is the ultimate indulgence for any chocolate lover. Made with simple ingredients, it's a classic recipe that never fails to impress. The cake has a tender crumb and a deep chocolate flavor, perfectly paired with a smooth chocolate frosting or your choice of filling. Whether for a celebration or a cozy night in, this chocolate cake is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Key Lime Pie is a tangy and sweet dessert that brings a tropical touch to your table. This classic pie is made with a zesty lime filling, nestled in a buttery graham cracker crust, and topped with smooth whipped cream. It’s the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, ideal for warm days or as a refreshing finish to any meal. This easy-to-make pie is sure to become a favorite for its simplicity and vibrant flavor.
Rice Krispie Treats are an all-time favorite snack that combines crunchy cereal with gooey marshmallows to create a sweet, chewy, and crispy delight. These treats are super easy to make, perfect for when you need something quick and fun for kids or for a nostalgic snack. Whether you're preparing them for a party, school lunchbox, or simply to satisfy your own craving, this recipe will make sure you get perfect results every time.
S’mores are the perfect campfire treat! This classic dessert combines toasted marshmallows, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers for a deliciously gooey and sweet treat. Whether you're roasting marshmallows by the fire or making them in the oven, these are sure to be a hit for any outdoor (or indoor!) gathering. Simple to make, S’mores bring nostalgia and flavor in every bite.
French Macarons are delicate, light, and crisp on the outside, with a soft and chewy center. These little sandwich cookies are made from almond flour and meringue, filled with buttercream, ganache, or jam. Though they require some precision, their melt-in-your-mouth texture and customizable flavors make them worth every effort.
Indulge in the rich, decadent pleasure of Chocolate Lava Cake—a treat that combines a gooey molten center with a soft, spongy outer layer. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen. Perfect for dinner parties or when you're craving something chocolatey and indulgent. This cake is best served warm, with the molten chocolate flowing out at the first bite!
Strawberry shortcake is the perfect dessert for summer, featuring soft, buttery shortcake biscuits topped with juicy strawberries and fresh whipped cream. This classic treat is light, slightly sweet, and bursting with flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a holiday or just want a simple dessert, strawberry shortcake offers a delightful balance of textures and freshness.
Cheesecake bars are a deliciously creamy, sweet treat that's easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. These bars feature a buttery graham cracker crust and a smooth, rich cheesecake filling that melts in your mouth. They are ideal for any occasion—whether it’s a snack, a dessert for family gatherings, or a sweet addition to holiday celebrations.
These classic vanilla cupcakes are soft, fluffy, and have a rich vanilla flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. With a buttery base and light texture, they are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings. Topped with your favorite frosting, these cupcakes are a hit at parties, family gatherings, or as a simple treat. Easy to make and wonderfully versatile, this recipe is a staple for cupcake lovers.
This moist and flavorful Carrot Cake is packed with freshly grated carrots, warm spices, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. It's the perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a balance of sweetness and spice, along with a soft texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you're making it for a family gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this carrot cake will never disappoint.
Pumpkin pie is a classic dessert that's especially popular during the fall and winter months. With its creamy pumpkin filling and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, it’s a comforting treat that's easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply craving a seasonal dessert, this recipe delivers a delicious and aromatic pie that will leave everyone wanting more.
Beef tacos are a simple, delicious meal that’s packed with flavor. The combination of seasoned beef, fresh vegetables, and your favorite toppings creates a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, these beef tacos are a surefire way to please everyone at the table. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make, ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Let's dive into the process and whip up some mouthwatering tacos!
Italian Wedding Soup is a heartwarming and flavorful dish that combines tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and delicate pasta in a savory broth. Despite its name, this soup isn't traditionally served at Italian weddings. Instead, the name comes from the "marriage" of ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The meatballs provide richness, while the vegetables add a lightness that balances the dish. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a blend of savory, fresh, and comforting flavors—perfect for family meals or special gatherings.
If you're craving a comforting, home-cooked meal, these juicy and flavorful meatballs are the perfect solution. They are easy to prepare, versatile, and can be served with a variety of dishes, such as spaghetti, mashed potatoes, or even as a filling in a sandwich. This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys cooking their own meals, offering a blend of savory spices and tender meat. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you'll find these meatballs easy to make and absolutely delicious.
Making your own homemade chocolate croissants (pain au chocolat) may seem like a challenge, but it’s actually a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with the smell of freshly baked pastry. The buttery, flaky layers with a rich chocolate filling are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a special treat. With a bit of time and patience, you can recreate this French classic at home.
Who can resist the comforting crunch and gooey melt of a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich? This classic dish is quick to make, satisfying, and a staple for any mealtime. Whether you’re enjoying it on its own or pairing it with a bowl of soup, this sandwich is the ultimate comfort food that’s simple yet packed with flavor.
Turkey gravy is a must-have for any holiday feast, especially on Thanksgiving. Rich, savory, and smooth, it’s the perfect finishing touch for your roast turkey and mashed potatoes. This easy homemade gravy uses drippings from the turkey and a few simple ingredients to create a flavorful sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step by step to creating a delicious turkey gravy that enhances your holiday meal.
These Brown Butter Toffee Cookies are rich, nutty, and packed with bits of crunchy toffee. Browning the butter adds a deep, caramel-like flavor, which perfectly complements the sweet toffee pieces. The cookies are crispy on the edges and soft in the center, making them a satisfying treat for any occasion. Whether you're baking for a party, holiday, or just because, these cookies will be an instant hit.
Zucchini fries are a delicious, healthy alternative to traditional French fries. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Whether you're looking for a fun side dish, a snack, or something to satisfy your craving for crunch, these zucchini fries are a perfect choice. Baked instead of fried, they’re lighter and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a guilt-free treat!
These delightful Peach Hand Pies are the perfect treat for a sweet snack or dessert. Made with a buttery, flaky pie crust and filled with juicy, spiced peaches, they are easy to make and perfect for any time of year, especially summer. You can serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy them as a grab-and-go snack. The individual servings also make them ideal for picnics or parties.
There’s nothing quite like gathering around a bubbling pot of cheese fondue with friends or family. This classic Swiss dish is a warm, creamy blend of cheeses, wine, and a hint of garlic, perfect for dipping crusty bread, vegetables, or even fruit. It’s an interactive and fun meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare at home. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or just craving a cheesy snack, this cheese fondue will leave everyone satisfied.
Nothing says comfort like a warm, homemade Chicken Pot Pie. This classic dish features tender chunks of chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce all nestled beneath a flaky, golden pie crust. It’s a family favorite that's hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy dinner. If you're looking to make a comforting meal from scratch, this recipe will guide you through every step. Plus, you can easily adapt it to use whatever veggies you have on hand!
Albondigas Soup, also known as Mexican Meatball Soup, is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting meal. Made with tender beef and rice meatballs simmered in a rich, tomato-based broth, this soup is packed with vegetables and warm spices. It's a satisfying dish that brings together bold Mexican flavors, making it ideal for family dinners or a cozy meal on a cool day.
This classic Banana Bread recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas. It's moist, flavorful, and easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you're a beginner baker or experienced, this comforting bread is sure to become a household favorite. Serve it as a quick breakfast, snack, or even dessert.
Chocolate Babka is a rich, sweet bread with a swirl of chocolate filling. The dough is soft and fluffy, while the chocolate creates a decadent, dessert-like flavor. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, this bread pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. Though it looks intricate, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding to make, leaving you with an irresistible loaf full of chocolatey goodness.
Cobb Salad is a classic American dish, vibrant and hearty, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a well-balanced and flavorful meal. This salad is packed with a variety of ingredients, making it both filling and nutritious. It combines crisp greens, tender chicken, creamy avocado, tangy blue cheese, hard-boiled eggs, and crunchy bacon, all topped with a tangy vinaigrette. Whether you're making it for lunch, dinner, or a light meal, this salad is sure to satisfy.
Homemade Pretzel Bites are the perfect blend of soft, chewy, and salty. These bite-sized delights are incredibly versatile—great for snacking, serving at parties, or even a fun weekend baking project. With a golden-brown crust and a fluffy interior, they’re irresistible when dipped in mustard or cheese sauce. Making these at home is surprisingly simple, and the results are well worth the effort.
If you're craving a quick, bold snack with a kick, these spicy peanuts are perfect for you! Coated with a blend of spices and lightly roasted, they deliver just the right amount of heat and crunch. This recipe is simple to prepare, ideal for parties, movie nights, or as a flavorful snack throughout the day. You can adjust the spice level to your taste and experiment with different seasoning combinations. Get ready for a snack that's both delicious and addictive!
A refreshing Mojito is the perfect drink to cool you down on a hot day. With its crisp combination of fresh mint, tangy lime, and a touch of sweetness, this classic Cuban cocktail will transport you straight to a tropical paradise. Whether you're hosting a summer party or simply enjoying a relaxing evening, a homemade Mojito is always a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s simple to make and requires only a handful of ingredients!
Grilled salmon is a simple, healthy, and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick meal. This recipe combines the rich, buttery flavor of salmon with a citrusy marinade to enhance its natural taste. Cooking the salmon on the grill gives it a light smokiness, while keeping the fish moist and tender. It's a great dish for busy weeknights or summer BBQs and pairs wonderfully with fresh vegetables or a side of rice.
Sausage balls are a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. With a delicious mix of savory sausage, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender biscuit mix, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They’re great as appetizers, snacks, or even for breakfast. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something tasty, sausage balls are a quick and easy option that will impress.