Southern Red Velvet Cake

Here’s a classic Southern Red Velvet Cake recipe, known for its vibrant color, rich flavor, and creamy frosting. Perfect for special occasions and celebrations!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cocoa powder
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 tbsp red food coloring (gel or liquid)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, to adjust consistency)

Instructions:

Make the Cake:

1. Preheat oven: to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch baking pan. You can also line the pans with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.
4. Combine dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour batter: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans or pour into the single pan.
6. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes (for round pans) or 35-40 minutes (for a 9×13-inch pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1. Beat cream cheese and butter: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed to prevent the sugar from flying everywhere.
3. Add vanilla and cream: Mix in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Layer the cake: If using round pans, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
2. Add second layer: Place the second cake layer on top, then frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
3. Decorate: Decorate with additional frosting swirls, sprinkles, or edible decorations if desired.
4. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the frosting to set. Slice and enjoy!

This Southern Red Velvet Cake is known for its soft, moist texture and beautiful red color, complemented by the tangy sweetness of cream cheese frosting. It’s a true Southern classic that’s sure to impress!