Introduction
Welcome to a slice of Southern delight! This Southern Style Red Velvet Cake is a showstopper that combines soft, velvety texture with a rich, vibrant color that will impress anyone at your table. Topped with creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting, every bite is an indulgence that’s perfect for celebrations or just because. Let’s dive into the world of baking this classic recipe that’s sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart!
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, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk (if needed for consistency)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder, ensuring a light and airy batter.
- In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, almond extract, and vinegar until well combined. Enjoy the vibrant color of this mixture!
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until they are combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake tender and fluffy.
- Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Your kitchen will be filled with a delightful aroma!
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then gently turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the heavenly cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until it becomes light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix again. If your frosting is too thick, just add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Place the second layer on top and repeat the frosting process. Top with the third layer and lavish the entire cake in frosting, smoothing it as you desire.
- For a final touch, decorate with additional cake crumbs or your favorite festive toppings if you wish. Enjoy every slice of this luscious cake!
Notes or Tips
- For the best flavor, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of food coloring to achieve your desired shade of red.
- If you have leftover frosting, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cooking Techniques
Mixing your ingredients properly is essential for achieving that perfect texture in your cake. Be gentle when combining wet and dry mixtures to avoid developing gluten, which can make the cake dense. Also, let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
FAQ
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked a day in advance, wrapped tightly, and stored at room temperature. Just frost them on the day you plan to serve.
Can I freeze the cake? Yes! You can freeze the unfrosted layers by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and frost.
What can I substitute for buttermilk? If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can create a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Conclusion
With its rich flavor and stunning appearance, this Southern Style Red Velvet Cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat to brighten your day, this cake delivers happiness in every slice. Gather your loved ones and enjoy this delightful dessert together!