Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe

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January 7, 2026

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In questo articolo, esploreremo una ricetta deliziosa e facile da preparare.

Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Red velvet cake is a timeless classic, beloved for its rich flavors and eye-catching appearance. This Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe guides you through creating a moist, fluffy cake with a decadent cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this detailed recipe will ensure you achieve bakery-quality results at home.

Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on making a Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe. With its distinctive red hue and smooth cream cheese frosting, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that combines subtle chocolate undertones with a tangy twist. Follow our step-by-step instructions to create this delicious dessert, and impress your family and friends with your baking skills.

Ingredients List

For the cake: – 1 cup of canola oil – 1 cup of granulated sugar – 1/2 cup buttermilk – 4 large egg whites (save the yolks for another use) – 4 teaspoons red food coloring – 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar – 1 1/3 cup + 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – 8 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder – 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the cream cheese frosting: – 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened – 4 cups powdered sugar – 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Timing

A delicious plate of Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Baking Time: 25-35 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans

Line two 6″ round cake pans with parchment paper on the bottom, and lightly spray the sides with cooking spray.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the canola oil, sugar, buttermilk, egg whites, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Create the Batter

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while mixing until just combined.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely on a wire rack before removing them from the pans.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

Ensure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. Beat them together for about 45 seconds to combine. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating again until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving dish. Spread a generous cup of cream cheese frosting on top, extending almost to the edges. Place the second cake layer on top, and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake using an offset spatula for a smooth finish.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Sugars: 40g
  • Protein: 4g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a lighter version of this Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe, consider using Greek yogurt in place of some of the oil, or try a low-fat cream cheese for the frosting. You can also reduce the sugar by substituting with natural sweeteners like stevia or honey.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your red velvet cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries for a delightful contrast. A hot cup of coffee or tea pairs wonderfully with the cake’s rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined.
  • Skipping the Cooling Process: Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
  • Using Imitation Vanilla: Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months.

Conclusion

This Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. With its vibrant color and luscious frosting, it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration. We hope you enjoy baking and indulging in this classic dessert.

FAQs

What is the origin of red velvet cake?

Red velvet cake originated in the United States during the Victorian era and gained popularity in the 20th century. Its red color was initially due to the reaction between cocoa and acidic ingredients.

Can I make this cake without food coloring?

Yes, you can omit the food coloring for a natural version, resulting in a “velvet” cake with a light cocoa hue.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Use a cake tester or toothpick inserted into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.

Looking for more delicious recipes?

Check out our Classic Chocolate Cake Recipe and Vanilla Bean Cupcakes for more sweet inspiration!

By following this Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe and our expert tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking perfection. Happy baking!

Homemade Red Velvet Cake RecipeHomemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe

A delicious plate of Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe

Homemade Red Velvet Cake Recipe

This homemade red velvet cake is delightfully moist and fluffy, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that makes it perfect for any celebration!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Cake
  • 240 ml canola oil
  • 200 g granulated sugar
  • 120 ml buttermilk
  • 4 egg whites large egg whites
  • 4 tsp red food coloring
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 0.5 tsp white vinegar
  • 185 g all-purpose flour
  • 8 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 0.5 tsp baking soda
  • 0.5 tsp salt
Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 227 g cream cheese, softened
  • 113 g unsalted butter, softened
  • 480 g powdered sugar
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
  • 30 ml heavy cream

Equipment

  • Electric Mixer
  • 6-inch Cake Pans
  • Wire Rack
  • Offset Spatula
  • Cake Scraper

Method
 

  1. Line two 6″ round cake pans with parchment paper on the bottom, and then lightly spray the sides with cooking spray.
  2. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  3. In a medium bowl, beat together the canola oil, sugar, buttermilk, egg whites, red food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar using an electric mixer.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, while mixing.
  6. Divide the batter between the two cake pans, and bake for 25-35 minutes, until a cake tester comes out clean. Let cool completely on a wire rack. When cool, tip the cakes out of the pan, and remove the parchment liner on the bottom.
  7. Once the cake is cool, make the frosting. Make sure everything is room temperature (except the cream). Beat the cream cheese and butter for about 45 seconds to break it up.
  8. Begin adding the powdered sugar one cup at a time while beating.
  9. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, and beat again. Add extra heavy cream if needed to form a fluffy, spreadable frosting.
  10. Place one cake layer on a serving dish. Add a heaping one cup of cream cheese frosting on top, and spread it almost to the edge of the cake.
  11. Add the other cake layer on top. Add the remaining frosting to the top of the cake, and using an offset spatula, move the frosting down the sides of the cake. Use a cake scraper or bench scraper to smooth the sides of the cake.
  12. Serve immediately, or store in the fridge until serving.

Notes

We just need the egg whites for this recipe; save the egg yolks for another use. Ensure the cakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent it from melting.

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CREATED BY POLLY

Polly is the creator of Food Lovers, where she shares easy, family-friendly recipes designed for busy home cooks.

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