Southern Living Red Velvet Cake is a classic dessert that is sure to impress your guests. This delicious cake is made with a combination of cocoa powder and buttermilk, which gives it a unique flavor and texture that is sure to please. The traditional red color comes from food coloring, and it's finished off with a cream cheese frosting. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
To make this Southern Living Red Velvet Cake you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
- 2 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Red food coloring
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
To make this Southern Living Red Velvet Cake, follow these instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat until just combined.
- Add the food coloring, a few drops at a time, until you reach your desired color. Beat until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the cream cheese frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar and beat until combined. Add the heavy cream and beat until light and fluffy. Frost the cooled cake.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips and tricks for making the perfect Southern Living Red Velvet Cake:
- Make sure all of your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin.
- If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to one cup of milk and letting it sit for 10 minutes.
- For a more intense red color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring.
- The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to one cup of milk and letting it sit for 10 minutes.
How long will the cake stay fresh?
The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring?
Yes, for a more intense red color, use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done baking when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to three months.
