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What ingredients are essential for red velvet cake? To create a great red velvet cake, you need a few key ingredients. First, use 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour. This forms the base of your cake. Next, add 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar for sweetness. You also need 1 teaspoon of baking soda and salt to help the cake rise. A touch of cocoa powder, about 1 teaspoon, gives it a hint of chocolate flavor.

Red Velvet Cake

Impress your friends with an easy and delicious red velvet cake! This guide walks you through essential ingredients, baking techniques, and delightful frosting options, including gluten-free versions. Discover how buttermilk enhances flavor and texture while following step-by-step instructions for perfect results. Ready to create a stunning dessert? Click through to explore the full red velvet cake recipe and make your baking dreams come true!
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Ingredients
  

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon 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 Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 cup cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

    In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined.

      In another mixing bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth.

        Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing on medium speed until just combined. Do not overmix.

          Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.

            Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from pans and cool completely on wire racks.

              While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.

                Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Then, add the vanilla extract and beat on high for 2-3 minutes until fluffy.

                  Once the cakes are cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top.

                    Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.

                      For a decorative touch, you can garnish with white chocolate shavings or fresh berries.

                        Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12

                          - Presentation Tips: Serve slices on elegant cake plates, and drizzle with a berry coulis for added color and flavor.