Classic Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting



If there’s one cake that feels fancy, nostalgic, and comforting all at once, it’s classic red velvet cake. That soft, velvety crumb, the subtle cocoa flavor, and the rich, tangy cream cheese frosting—it’s pure magic. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday, or just because you’re craving something special, this red velvet cake never disappoints.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make the perfect classic red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting, step by step, in a simple and stress-free way.

Why Red Velvet Cake Is So Special

Red velvet cake isn’t just chocolate cake dyed red. It’s unique because of its:

  • Soft, tender texture
  • Mild cocoa flavor (not overpowering)
  • Slight tang from buttermilk and vinegar
  • Bold red color that looks stunning on any table

Paired with cream cheese frosting, it becomes one of the most loved cakes worldwide.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Red Velvet Cake

  • All-purpose flour
  • Cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Granulated sugar
  • Vegetable oil
  • Eggs
  • Buttermilk
  • Vanilla extract
  • White vinegar
  • Red food coloring

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Cream cheese (softened)
  • Unsalted butter (softened)
  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Tip: Always use room-temperature ingredients. This helps everything mix smoothly and gives you a softer cake.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Classic Red Velvet Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two or three round cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together:

  • Flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine:

  • Sugar
  • Oil

Beat until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in:

  • Buttermilk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Vinegar
  • Red food coloring

The batter should turn a deep, rich red.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix—this keeps the cake soft and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.

How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting (Smooth & Fluffy)

This frosting is what makes red velvet cake unforgettable.

Step 1: Beat Butter & Cream Cheese

Beat softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add Sugar Gradually

Add powdered sugar in batches, mixing well after each addition.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

Mix in vanilla extract. Beat until light, fluffy, and spreadable.

Too soft? Chill for 15–20 minutes.
Too thick? Add 1–2 teaspoons of milk.

Assembling the Cake

  1. Place the first cake layer on a plate or cake stand
  2. Spread an even layer of frosting
  3. Add the second layer and repeat
  4. Frost the top and sides
  5. Smooth or swirl for a classic look

Optional toppings:

  • Cake crumbs
  • White chocolate shavings
  • Fresh berries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using cold ingredients – leads to lumpy batter
  • Overbaking – dries out the cake
  • Too much cocoa powder – hides the classic red velvet flavor
  • Overmixing – makes the cake dense

Storage Tips

  • Store in the fridge (covered) for up to 5 days
  • Let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving
  • Can be frozen (unfrosted) for up to 2 months

Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced cocoa flavor
  • Moist, tender crumb
  • Stable cream cheese frosting
  • Perfect for layering and decorating

This is the kind of cake that gets saved, shared, and requested again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is red velvet cake just chocolate cake?

No. It has much less cocoa and a unique tangy flavor.

Can I make it without food coloring?

Yes, but it won’t be red. The taste stays the same.

Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?

Absolutely! Bake for 18–22 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Classic red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting is more than just a dessert—it’s a statement cake. It looks impressive, tastes incredible, and never goes out of style. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or creating content for your food blog or Pinterest audience, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.


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