Southern Red Velvet Cake

I can still remember the first time I tasted a slice of Southern Red Velvet Cake. It was at a family reunion, and the moment I took a bite, the light, fluffy texture and the deep red color captured my heart. The sweet, slightly tangy cream cheese frosting paired perfectly with the moist cake, making it a true delight. This recipe is not just a cake—it’s a tradition, a way to bring people together that sparks joy and nostalgia. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a regular day, this cake has a way of making moments special. Making it from scratch is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and love.

why make this recipe

Southern Red Velvet Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate. This cake stands out with its vibrant color and unique flavor profile, combining chocolate and vanilla notes. It’s perfect for gatherings and impresses with its beauty and taste. Plus, the process of baking this cake is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all levels. Bringing this cake to your table is sure to create lasting memories, whether it’s for your loved ones or just a treat for yourself.

how to make Southern Red Velvet Cake

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In another bowl, mix together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Divide the batter 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 invert onto wire racks to cool completely.
8. Frost with cream cheese frosting once cooled.

how to serve Southern Red Velvet Cake

Serve Southern Red Velvet Cake at room temperature for the best taste. Slice it into generous pieces and enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings.

how to store Southern Red Velvet Cake

To store your Southern Red Velvet Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving. If you have any leftover cake, you can freeze it for up to three months; wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

tips to make Southern Red Velvet Cake

1. Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
2. Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
3. Experiment with the food coloring until you achieve your desired red hue.
4. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a different flavor twist.

variation

You can change things up by adding chocolate chips to the batter or incorporating a layer of strawberry jam between the cake layers for a fruity touch. For a healthier alternative, consider using whole wheat flour or a sugar substitute.

FAQs

1. Why is buttermilk used in Red Velvet Cake?
2. Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the cake.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
4. Yes! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in the fridge to frost the next day.
5. What’s the best kind of frosting for Red Velvet Cake?
6. Cream cheese frosting is traditional and complements the flavors of the cake perfectly, but buttercream is also a popular choice.

Southern Red Velvet Cake

A delightful and vibrant Southern Red Velvet Cake with a sweet, tangy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any celebration.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Cake, Dessert

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar

Method

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
• In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
• In another bowl, mix together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar until well combined.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
• Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans.

Baking

• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto wire racks to cool completely.
• Frost with cream cheese frosting once cooled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 6gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 300mgFiber: 1gSugar: 30g

Notes

Serve at room temperature for the best taste. Slice into generous pieces and enjoy on its own or with vanilla ice cream. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week. Leftovers can be frozen for up to three months.

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