A light and fluffy red velvet cake with a subtle cacao flavor, naturally colored, and filled with cream cheese frosting. It is the perfect way to celebrate any special occasion. You should definitely give it a try!

Red velvet cake has always really intrigued me; is it vanilla, is it chocolate? Why does it seem to look and taste so different no matter where you get it from? What makes the red color? And how can I make a moist, light, and fluffy homemade red velvet cake that is sure to impress? Well, I have the answers to those questions here and more.

What makes the red color?

Traditionally, red velvet cake gets its color from a reaction between cocoa powder, buttermilk, and vinegar, which historically resulted in a “rust” hue. With the introduction of food colorings, the color spectrum has expanded from deep mahogany to vibrant red.

However, it’s very rare to come across a red velvet cake these days that doesn’t have some sort of red food coloring or other edible dyes.

How to make the best red velvet cake

Begin by sifting all of the dry ingredients into a bowl and mix to combine. In a separate large bowl, lightly cream the butter and then beat the butter and sugar, gradually adding in the eggs. Beat until smooth and fluffy.

Next, add the vanilla extract and the red food coloring. I suggest starting with just one teaspoon and then adding more if needed until you achieve the color you prefer. Just be aware that if you add too much, then it can add a hint of flavor.

First, add half of the dry ingredients to the bowl of wet ingredients and mix well. Then add half of the buttermilk and mix well again. Repeat those last two steps until both mixtures are thoroughly combined into the cake batter. Finally, add the white wine vinegar and mix well.

Grease or line a cake tin (8″/20cm) and add the cake batter. Bake for about 30 minutes at 350ºF/180ºC. The center of the cake should be a little springy to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should also come out dry (crumbly is fine- but not wet).

Remove the red velvet from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack. It must be at room temperature before decorating.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a large bowl of a handheld or stand mixer, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt; start on low speed and increase to high, mixing until creamy. The frosting should be creamy and hold its shape.

To Decorate The Red Velvet Cake: Slice the red velvet in half for a two-layer dessert. Then spread the frosting on the bottom cake layer and top with the other layer. I used the cream only in the middle, but you can choose to cover the top or even the entire cake. You’ll need double the amount of cream, though.

Finish off the cake decorations how you’d like. Some people like to use leftover red velvet crumbs. I love to top it with berries, edible flowers, and chocolate heart bonbons.

Any leftover red velvet cake can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it goes in the comments below. I’d appreciate a recipe card rating and would love to see your recipe recreations – tag me on Instagram @Alphafoodie!