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Layered Red Velvet Cake

A stunning dessert characterized by its rich red color and velvety texture, perfect for special occasions.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 ½ cups cake flour Provides a tender crumb.
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Reacts with vinegar for a light texture.
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder Adds subtle chocolate flavor.
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Keeps the cake moist.
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature Enhances flavor and tenderness.
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring Gives the cake its signature color.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar Activates baking soda.
  • ½ teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three round 9-inch cake pans.
  2. In a bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate large bowl, mix the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and eggs until well combined. Add the buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Baking
  1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the softened butter and cream cheese together until creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Assembly
  1. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
  2. Repeat for the second layer and then place the third layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake.
  3. For an added touch, decorate with red velvet crumbs or fresh berries.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing. Don't overmix the batter. Chill the frosting if too soft before frosting the cake.