Introduction to Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
If you’ve ever been to a celebration or café where the dessert table dazzles, chances are you’ve encountered the alluring red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting. This classic not only catches the eye with its vibrant hue but also teases the taste buds with its unique flavor profile. With a lavish, moist cake and a creamy, tangy frosting, it's no wonder this dessert has made its way into the hearts of many, particularly young professionals.
Why is Red Velvet Cake a Favorite Among Young Professionals?
The rise of Instagram and food blogs has amplified the charm of this cake. Its stunning appearance makes it the perfect centerpiece for any gathering, whether it’s a birthday bash, a corporate event, or an intimate dinner. The delightful combination of cocoa and vanilla in the cake, paired with the rich cream cheese frosting, adds an element of sophistication, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of culinary flair in their life.
Moreover, the ease with which this cake can be made at home is appealing to many young professionals who are always on the go. With just the right ingredients and a little love, you can impress your friends and treat yourself to a slice of indulgence. For more tips on baking and hosting, check out Sally’s Baking Addiction for a wealth of resources. So, are you ready to dive into the world of red velvet? Let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Essential ingredients for the cake
To whip up a luscious red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting, it all begins with some essential ingredients that create that signature flavor and texture. Here's what you need:
- Cake flour: 3 cups for a tender crumb.
- Baking soda and cocoa powder: 1 teaspoon and 2 tablespoons, respectively, for the perfect lift and subtle chocolatey essence.
- Salt: A half teaspoon to enhance flavors.
- Unsalted butter and granulated sugar: ½ cup of butter and 2 cups of sugar to keep your cake moist and sweet.
- Oil and buttermilk: 1 cup of either canola or vegetable oil and 1 cup of buttermilk add richness and tang.
- Eggs, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring: These are key to achieving the classic red hue and delightful flavor.
Key ingredients for the cream cheese frosting
Now, let’s talk about the creamy frosting that binds this delicious cake together. Your frosting needs these standout ingredients:
- Full-fat cream cheese: 16 ounces for that crave-worthy tanginess.
- Unsalted butter: ¾ cup to ensure a smooth consistency.
- Confectioners’ sugar: 5 cups to sweeten things up.
- Vanilla extract and a pinch of salt: These finalize the flavor profile, balancing sweetness and adding just the right touch.
Feel free to explore more about these ingredients to elevate your baking game! Check out Sally's Baking Addiction for tips on measuring ingredients correctly.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Creating a red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting is not just about following a recipe; it’s a wonderfully immersive baking experience. Let’s break it down step by step!
Preheat and Prepare Your Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Preparing your cake pans is crucial—instructions for greasing and lining with parchment paper will help ensure that your cakes come out beautifully. Grease two 9-inch round cake pans, place parchment rounds in the bottom, and grease the parchment as well. This extra step will prevent any unwanted sticking. For helpful tips on parchment paper usage, check out this handy tutorial from Sally's Baking Addiction.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of cake flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This mixture forms the foundational base of your cake, providing both flavor and texture. Setting these dry ingredients aside for now will ensure an even distribution later.
Create the Cake Batter
Using a stand or handheld mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar on medium-high speed for about 1 minute. Incorporate 1 cup of canola oil, 4 large egg yolks (save the whites for later), 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of distilled white vinegar. Beat these together on high for about 2 minutes until they're fully combined and creamy.
Incorporate Egg Whites for Texture
Next, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. With the mixer on low, alternate adding your dry mixture and 1 cup of buttermilk. Now, for that iconic color, add your desired amount of red food coloring—typically, 1 to 2 teaspoons works wonderfully. In a separate bowl, whisk the 4 reserved egg whites until soft peaks form, and gently fold them into the batter for added lightness. The batter will be silky and slightly thick.
Bake and Cool the Cakes
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans and bake for 30-32 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once baked, let them cool completely in the pans on a wire rack—this is essential as frosting a warm cake can create a gooey mess.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes cool, let's whip up that delicious cream cheese frosting. Beat together 16 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 5 cups of confectioners’ sugar and 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract. If it’s too sweet, a pinch of salt balances the flavors beautifully. Continue beating until it’s creamy and luscious.
Assemble and Frost Your Cake
Time to bring it all together! Trim the tops of the cooled cakes for a flat surface. Stack them by placing one layer on a cake stand, spreading a generous layer of frosting on top, and placing the second layer on top of that. Finish by frosting the top and sides of your red velvet cake. For a neat finish, consider using a bench scraper or icing spatula—your cake deserves that polished look!
Refrigerate Before Serving
Allow the assembled cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 to 60 minutes before slicing; this helps maintain its shape when you cut into it.
You now have a stunning red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting ready to impress at any gathering! Don’t forget, leftovers can be stored tightly in the refrigerator for a few days, or frozen for later enjoyment. Happy baking!
Variations on Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Gluten-Free Red Velvet Cake
Craving red velvet cake but need a gluten-free option? Substitute the cake flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, keeping the ratios the same. Be sure to add a teaspoon of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t contain it already. This will help mimic the texture of traditional cake flour and ensure your red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting remains rich and tender.
Vegan Red Velvet Alternatives
For a plant-based twist, try a vegan red velvet cake! Replace the eggs with unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. Use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute instead of regular butter, and opt for a dairy-free buttermilk using plant-based milk with a splash of vinegar. Top it all off with dairy-free cream cheese for the frosting, and you have a beautiful, guilt-free treat that everyone can enjoy!
If you're looking for more ideas or tips, check out this guide on baking without gluten or vegan baking essentials.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Achieving the Perfect Red Color
To ensure your red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting has that iconic deep hue, choose a high-quality gel food coloring. Start with one teaspoon and adjust to your preference. If you're unsure, remember that too much color can overpower the cake's flavor—aim for a rich, vibrant shade without going overboard.
Storing Your Cake for Freshness
After you've whipped up your delicious cake, let it cool completely before frosting. To keep your creation fresh, store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it later, unfrosted cake layers freeze beautifully for two to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before you dig in!
For further tips on cake storage, check out this helpful guide.
Serving Suggestions for Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing with Coffee or Herbal Tea
Elevate your red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting experience by pairing it with your favorite beverages. The rich, velvety texture of the cake complements the nutty flavors of a medium roast coffee, enhancing each bite. If you prefer something lighter, a warm herbal tea, like chamomile or hibiscus, provides a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness of the frosting.
Creative Ways to Serve Cake Portions
Get creative when serving your cake! Instead of traditional slices, consider crafting mini cakes in individual ramekins or cupcake portions. You could also use a cake pop maker for fun bites that are easy to share. Top them with small dollops of cream cheese frosting for an adorable presentation. If you have a gathering, a cake platter adorned with fresh berries or edible flowers can make a stunning centerpiece. With these ideas, your red velvet cake will not only taste divine but also turn heads!
Time Breakdown for Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Preparation Time
Get ready to unleash your inner baker! The preparation for this delicious red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting takes about 30 minutes. This includes whipping up your ingredients, mixing the batter, and preparing your pans for baking.
Baking Time
Now, let’s talk baking. You’ll need to allow around 30-32 minutes for the cake layers to rise and develop that beautiful color and flavor. Make sure to keep an eye on them during the last few minutes for perfection.
Total Time
In total, you’re looking at 1 hour to 1 hour and 2 minutes from start to finish. This includes prep and baking time, not to mention the delectable sweetness you’ll enjoy once the cake is frosted and chilled!
Ready to dive into this cake adventure? Your taste buds will thank you! If you need more tips on cake preparation, check out this handy guide on measuring baking ingredients. Enjoy!
Nutritional Facts for Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Understanding the nutritional content of your favorite desserts can help you enjoy them more mindfully! Here’s a quick breakdown of the red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting:
Calories
One slice of this indulgent cake contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on portion size and frosting thickness.
Protein
With roughly 4-5 grams of protein per slice, this cake isn't just sweet—it offers a small protein boost from eggs and cream cheese.
Sugar Content
Each slice has about 30-35 grams of sugar, primarily coming from the granulated sugar and creamy frosting. It's definitely a treat for your sweet tooth!
For more information on balancing indulgent treats with a healthy lifestyle, check out Healthline's article on sugar intake.
FAQ about Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
How can I make my red velvet cake more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder or instant coffee to the dry ingredients. This subtle addition enriches the cocoa flavor without overpowering the cake. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or orange, for a unique twist.
Why is my cake not red enough?
If your cake comes out less vibrant, it could be due to the kind of food coloring used. Gel food coloring offers a more potent color than liquid dye, so opt for that. Also, don’t skip the vinegar—it helps activate the baking soda and intensifies the color! Make sure your cocoa powder is unsweetened and contains no additives that could alter the hue.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It’s best to slice and serve cold! If you have extra layers, those can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months—just remember to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
For additional tips on frosting techniques, check out this helpful resource on frosting basics.
Conclusion on Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Celebrating Homemade Flavor with Every Slice
Baking a red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting is more than simply creating a dessert; it’s a way to bring joy to yourself and others. With its rich, tender layers and luscious frosting, this classic treat promises to make any occasion special. So gather your loved ones and celebrate the magic of homemade flavors!
Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- 9-inch cake pans
- Handheld or stand mixer
- whisk
- paddle attachment
- Rubber Spatula
- silicone spatula
- wire rack
- Icing spatula
- bench scraper
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 3 cups cake flour spooned & leveled
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 Tablespoons unsweetened natural cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs room temperature and separated
- 1 Tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
- liquid or gel red food coloring
- 1 cup buttermilk at room temperature
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 16 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
- 5 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- pinch of salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans, line with parchment paper rounds, then grease the parchment paper.
- Whisk the flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Set aside.
- Beat the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until combined, about 1 minute.
- Add the oil, egg yolks, vanilla extract, and vinegar and beat on high for 2 minutes.
- With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in 2-3 additions alternating with the buttermilk.
- Add desired amount of food coloring just until combined.
- Whisk the egg whites on high speed until fluffy peaks form, about 3 minutes. Gently fold into cake batter.
- Divide batter between cake pans. Bake for 30-32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool completely in the pans on a wire rack.
Frosting and Assembling
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium-high speed until smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Add the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt; beat for 3 minutes.
- Slice a thin layer off the tops of the cakes. Place 1 cake layer on your serving plate and cover with frosting.
- Top with 2nd layer and spread remaining frosting all over the top and sides.
- Refrigerate cake for at least 30-60 minutes before slicing.
- Cover leftover cake tightly and store in the refrigerator for 5 days.
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