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Decadent Red Velvet Cake with Tangy Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in a slice of this decadent red velvet cake with tangy cream cheese frosting. The rich layers are tender and moist, perfectly balanced with a creamy, slightly tart frosting that enhances its vibrant sweetness, making it a show-stopping dessert. Perfect for any celebration or simply as a well-deserved treat!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for frosting

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  3. In another bowl, mix the eggs, oil, buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  8. While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  9. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
  10. Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer before placing the second on top.
  11. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
  12. Decorate with additional sprinkles or cocoa powder if desired, and then slice to serve!

Notes

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate, but consume within a week for optimal freshness.