Red Velvet Cake recipe for beginners
How to bake a perfect Red Velvet Cake at home
Baking Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 330°F (165°C).
Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cocoa powder, and sugar until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, oil, milk, vinegar, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Add Hot Milk & Butter
In a small saucepan, heat milk until hot but not boiling. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter.
Slowly add the hot milk mixture to the batter in two parts, stirring gently to combine.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
Bake at 330°F (165°C) for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
For cupcakes, bake at 330°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
Ingredients:
225g (2 sticks) butter, softened (use 450g for a stiffer frosting)
500g (4 cups) powdered sugar
¼ tsp salt
450g (16 oz / 2 blocks) cream cheese
1-2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
In a large bowl, beat butter, powdered sugar, and salt at medium-high speed for 5 minutes until fluffy.
Add cold cream cheese and beat on high speed until smooth.
If desired, add vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
Assembling the Cake:
Spread a thin layer of frosting over one cake layer.
Place the second layer on top and apply a crumb coat.
Chill briefly, then apply the final frosting layer evenly.
Decorate as desired.
Storage & Tips:
✅ Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it sit at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
✅ This recipe can also be used for cupcakes or a sheet cake—adjust baking time accordingly.
✅ Using gel food coloring ensures a vibrant red color.