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Best Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Indulge in this decadent Red Velvet Cake, originally adapted from a 2007 New York Times recipe! This recipe offers a vibrant, moist cake with a rich, velvety texture. For a naturally-colored alternative, easily substitute beet juice for artificial food coloring. Top it off with a luscious cream cheese frosting, and prepare for a taste sensation that will leave you wanting more! Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or any day you deserve a treat.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 604.4 kcal
Protein 14g
Rating 2.5 (4 Reviews)
Best Red Velvet Cake 26

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Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Best Red Velvet Cake

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How to Make Best Red Velvet Cake

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter and 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in 1/2 cup vegetable oil until well combined.
  5. Add 4 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  6. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup red food coloring (or 1/4 cup beet juice + 2 tablespoons flour) and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  7. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with 1 cup buttermilk (or yogurt mixed with 1/4 cup milk) in two additions, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  8. In a small dish, combine 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1 tablespoon white vinegar. Add to the batter with the mixer running on low speed. Beat until smooth.
  9. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
  10. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If using only two pans, bake for 50 minutes.
  11. Let cakes cool in pans for 20 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. Once completely cool, frost with your favorite cream cheese frosting (recipe suggestion below).

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

28 g

Sugar

139g

Fat

62g

Carbs

21g

Recipe Tags (Choose a tag and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Cuisine Preparation North American Desserts Cakes