Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, moist, and decadent cakes, this Homemade Red Velvet Cake is the ultimate treat! Whether you’re a beginner baker or a cake enthusiast, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and yields a beautiful, velvety red masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for You

This cake has everything: a beautiful red color, a soft and moist texture, and that classic hint of cocoa flavor, balanced perfectly with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Unlike store-bought options, homemade red velvet has a freshness that simply can’t be matched. This recipe is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with layers, toppings, and serving styles.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 ½ cups vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 ounce red food coloring

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
9-inch round cake pans
Cooling rack
Offset spatula or butter knife for frosting