There is something truly magical about baking a Red Velvet Cake from Scratch Recipe that fills your home with warmth and excitement. This luscious cake, with its vibrant red hue and perfectly tender crumb, paired with the creamy richness of homemade cream cheese frosting, is a celebration of both color and flavor. Whether you’re surprising a loved one or treating yourself, this recipe delivers a moist, velvety texture and a subtle hint of cocoa you won’t be able to resist. Get ready to dive into a baking adventure that’s as rewarding as the cake is delightful!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top-down view of 15 small bowls and cups arranged neatly on a white marbled surface, each holding different baking ingredients. Starting from the bottom left, there is a white bowl filled with white flour, next to it a white bowl with liquid cream, and above it a larger white bowl with a pale yellow liquid. Above that are two small transparent bowls with white salt and an egg. To the right, a white square bowl holds brown powder, next to it a transparent bowl with white granulated sugar, and below that a small white bowl with amber liquid. To the right, a small white cup holds cream cheese blocks wrapped in silver foil inside a white bowl. Above is a white cup with red thick liquid, with three white eggs in a black bowl to its left. On the top left are two small round bowls, one with white powder and the other with white baking powder. All bowls are placed on a smooth white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Red Velvet Cake from Scratch Recipe are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a vital role in creating that perfect combination of texture, taste, and eye-catching color. From the tangy buttermilk that keeps the crumb tender, to the vibrant red food coloring that gives this cake its signature look, every component is essential.

Canola oil: Provides moisture and keeps the cake super tender without adding strong flavors.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a fine crumb texture.
Buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang and reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise.
Egg whites: Lighten the cake batter, ensuring a soft and airy texture.
Red food coloring: Famous for giving the cake that unforgettable red hue.
Vanilla extract: Enhances flavors and adds a warm, sweet note.
White vinegar: Works with buttermilk and baking soda for a fine crumb and balanced acidity.
All-purpose flour: The base structure of the cake, providing just the right amount of gluten.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a mild chocolate undertone without overpowering the red velvet flavor.
Baking soda: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Cream cheese (softened): Central to the frosting, offering that signature creamy tang.
Unsalted butter (softened): Richens the frosting with a silky texture and smooth flavor.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting for that perfect spreadable consistency.
Heavy cream: Adds fluffiness and makes the frosting luxuriously smooth.

How to Make Red Velvet Cake from Scratch Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Start by lining two 6-inch round cake pans with parchment paper on the bottom. Then, give the sides a light spraying of cooking spray to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to 350°F so it’s ready when your batter is mixed.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together canola oil, granulated sugar, buttermilk, egg whites, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. This mixture will become the moist, flavorful base of your cake, so mix until smooth and vibrant.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and unsweetened cocoa powder. This blend ensures your cake has the perfect crumb and subtle cocoa flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while mixing gently. This slow incorporation prevents lumps and keeps the batter light and fluffy—a perfect balance for your Red Velvet Cake from Scratch Recipe.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 25 to 35 minutes. Use a cake tester or toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is done. Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack before removing them from the pans and peeling off the parchment.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened and at room temperature. Beat them together for about 45 seconds until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating after each addition. Finish by adding vanilla extract and heavy cream, whipping to a fluffy, spreadable frosting. Adjust with more cream if necessary.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and slather on a heaping cup of frosting, spreading it near the edges. Top with the second cake layer and frost not only the top but also the sides, smoothing the frosting with an offset spatula or cake scraper for a professional finish. Now your Red Velvet Cake from Scratch Recipe is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Red Velvet Cake from Scratch Recipe

The image shows a round, two-layer red velvet cake on a white scalloped cake stand. Each layer is deep red with a generous layer of smooth white cream cheese frosting in between and around the sides, softly textured to reveal some red cake underneath. On top, there are three fresh, deep red roses with green leaves placed on one side near the edge. Another red rose rests at the base of the cake stand on the right side. The background and surface are white marble with soft grey veins. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Elevate your homemade red velvet cake by adding simple garnishes such as fresh berries or a sprinkle of edible gold dust. Crumbled cake crumbs or chopped pecans along the sides add a crunchy texture and rustic charm that’s as stunning as it is tasty.

Side Dishes

Red velvet cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a cozy twist, serve with a warm cup of coffee or a creamy chai latte that balances the cake’s sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, consider cutting the cake into elegant mini cupcakes or serving neat slices layered with fresh strawberries. Alternatively, use the frosting to pipe delicate flowers or patterns on top to make your cake the star centerpiece of any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store your red velvet cake covered tightly in the refrigerator. It keeps fresh for up to 4 days, allowing you to savor every bite without worry. The cool environment preserves the cream cheese frosting wonderfully while maintaining the cake’s moist texture.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy your Red Velvet Cake from Scratch Recipe later, freeze the unfrosted layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They will maintain their freshness for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Reheating

Although this cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, if you prefer a slightly warm slice, gently heat it in the microwave for 10 seconds. Avoid overheating, as it may soften the frosting too much and affect the texture.

FAQs

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites?

While whole eggs can be used, egg whites help create a lighter, airier cake texture that is characteristic of red velvet. Using whole eggs might make the cake denser but won’t ruin the flavor.

Is there a substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes! You can make a buttermilk substitute by adding one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This adds the necessary acidity for the cake’s rise and tender crumb.

Why is white vinegar included in the recipe?

White vinegar reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise and keeps the crumb tender. It also enhances the red color by interacting with the cocoa powder and food coloring.

Can I make the frosting without heavy cream?

Yes, you can omit heavy cream if necessary, but it contributes to the frosting’s fluffy and spreadable consistency. Without it, the frosting may be denser and less silky.

How do I achieve that vivid red color naturally?

The classic vibrant red comes from the added red food coloring. To avoid artificial dyes, some use natural alternatives like beet juice, but this can slightly alter flavor and color intensity.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like making a Red Velvet Cake from Scratch Recipe with your own hands to bring a burst of joy and color to any occasion. Following this recipe not only guarantees a moist, flavorful cake with luscious frosting but also offers that special homemade satisfaction. So roll up your sleeves and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful classic that never goes out of style!