Introduction
There’s something truly magical about a Southern Style Red Velvet Cake. With its vibrant red hue, decadent layers, and rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is not just a feast for the eyes but a delightful treat for the taste buds. Every slice promises a moist crumb and a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, making it an ideal dessert for celebrations, gatherings, or even a weekend treat. Let’s dive into crafting this beautiful dessert that’s bound to impress family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring they are well-coated to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until thoroughly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, gently stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a smooth, lump-free batter is key.
- Divide the vibrant red batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Your cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until silky and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy, with a luscious consistency.
- After the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate. Generously spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Top with the second cake layer and lavishly frost the top and sides with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
- For an extra touch, feel free to decorate with pecans or sprinkle some cake crumbs around the edge for a charming finish.
Notes or Tips
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter. Also, if you prefer a richer flavor, you can decrease the amount of cocoa powder to your liking. And don’t hesitate to get creative with the toppings – fresh berries or edible flowers can add a lovely touch!
Cooking Techniques
This Southern Red Velvet Cake relies on the technique of careful mixing to achieve that tender crumb. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, use a gentle hand to maintain the lightness of the cake. Cooling your cakes upside down can also help retain their moisture, so keep that in mind if you want to ensure a soft and fluffy texture.
FAQ
Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! Cake flour can give your cake an even lighter texture, but you may need to adjust the quantity slightly due to its lower protein content.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitution by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Conclusion
There you have it—a Southern Style Red Velvet Cake that’s as delightful to behold as it is to devour! With its tender layers and creamy frosting, each bite is sure to bring a smile. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a well-deserved treat, this cake is destined to become a favorite. So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let your baking adventure begin!