Irresistible Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

The moment I slice into a Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, that rich, velvety crumb and tangy-smooth frosting instantly brighten my day. This classic dessert is more than just a treat—it’s a celebration of flavors that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or craving a homemade indulgence to beat the fast-food blues, this recipe delivers elegance without the fuss. What I love most is how effortlessly this cake comes together, yet feels like a showstopper worthy of any occasion. Join me as we dive into making the perfect balance of luscious cream cheese frosting nestled between tender layers of crimson delight—an irresistible slice of comfort you’ll want to savor again and again.

Why choose Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Bold flavor combination: The tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the subtle cocoa notes. Effortless elegance: Impress guests with a stunning cake that’s surprisingly simple to bake. Versatile dessert: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or cozy nights in. Moist, tender crumb: A velvety texture that melts in your mouth. Make-ahead friendly: Bake in advance and frost when ready to save time. Comfort food upgrade: Say goodbye to fast food boredom with this classic homemade delight.

Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

For the Cake

All-purpose flour – Use sifted flour for a light, tender crumb in your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Cocoa powder – Adds subtle chocolate flavor without overpowering the classic red hue.
Granulated sugar – Provides balanced sweetness and helps create that moist texture.
Buttermilk – Enhances the cake’s tenderness and adds a slight tang that complements the cocoa.
Vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and soft, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and contribute to a rich, fluffy crumb.
Red food coloring – Delivers the signature vibrant red that makes this cake instantly recognizable.
White vinegar – Reacts with baking soda to give the cake a subtle lift and tender crumb.
Baking soda – Helps the cake rise beautifully while keeping it light.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream cheese – The star ingredient that adds tangy creaminess and smooth texture.
Unsalted butter – Softened butter creates a rich base for the frosting without overpowering the cream cheese.
Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting for perfect spreading consistency.
Vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the creamy frosting.

Optional Add-ons

Chopped pecans or walnuts – For a crunchy texture contrast, sprinkle between layers or on top.
Fresh berries – Add a bright, fresh garnish for an elegant finish.

How to Make Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Preheat your oven to 350°F and position racks in center. Grease two 9-inch round pans and line bottoms with parchment paper for flawless release.
Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Ensure dry mix is uniform and free of lumps for an even crumb.
Combine buttermilk, oil, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla, and white vinegar in another bowl. Stir until smooth, vibrant crimson batter forms.
Blend wet ingredients into dry mixture. Gently fold with a spatula just until no streaks remain—overmixing will toughen the crumb.
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans, smoothing tops with a spatula. Tap pans gently on countertop to release any air bubbles.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in centers comes out with moist crumbs. Look for springy tops and light browning.
Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack. Remove parchment and let layers cool completely before frosting.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Beat cream cheese and softened butter together in a bowl at medium speed until smooth and pale, about 2 minutes. Scrape sides as needed.
Add powdered sugar gradually, beating on low until it’s incorporated, then increase speed for 1 minute. Frosting should be thick, silky, and spreadable.
Assemble by placing one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of frosting, top with second layer, then frost sides and top until smooth.

Optional: Garnish with fresh raspberries for a vibrant pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Tips for the Best Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth batter and silky frosting without lumps.
Don’t Overmix Batter: Fold wet and dry ingredients gently to keep the crumb tender and avoid a dense, tough cake.
Measure Flour Precisely: Spoon and level flour instead of scooping to prevent a dry, heavy cake. Sifting helps keep the texture light.
Check Cake Doneness Early: Insert a toothpick at 25 minutes; remove promptly once moist crumbs stick to avoid overbaking and dryness.
Beat Frosting Thoroughly: Whip cream cheese frosting until light and creamy for easy spreading and that perfect tangy finish.
Chill Before Frosting: Let cake layers cool completely—cold cakes prevent frosting from melting and sliding off for neat assembly.

How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered gently with a cake dome or plastic wrap to maintain moisture.

Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out and absorbing odors.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cake—either whole or sliced—for up to 3 months. Wrap in plastic, then foil, to keep it fresh and protect against freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying, and allow it to come to room temperature for optimal flavor and texture, especially with that luscious cream cheese frosting.

Make Ahead Options

These Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance; simply let them cool completely, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain moisture. The cream cheese frosting can also be prepared a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, allow the frosting to come to room temperature before spreading it on the cake, and frost just before serving for that fresh, delicious taste. With these make-ahead options, you’ll delight your guests with a homemade dessert that’s just as decadent as if you made it on the spot!

What to Serve with Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Nothing completes a delightful slice of red velvet cake quite like the perfect accompaniments that elevate your dessert experience.

Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries brightens the rich flavors, adding a refreshing burst with each bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a luscious contrast, enhancing the cake’s softness with its cold, sweet charm.
Espresso or Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee perfectly balance the cake’s sweetness, making every bite even more indulgent.
Chocolate Covered Strawberries: This decadent pairing adds a delightful crunch and luxurious chocolate flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the cake’s velvety texture.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream offers a lovely contrast to the cream cheese frosting, giving every slice an extra layer of indulgance.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly sparkling wine complements the sweetness, making your dessert feel like a special occasion.
Chopped Nuts: Adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans on top provides a delightful crunch, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Enjoy pairing these delicious options with your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting for an unforgettable dessert experience!

Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Variations

Feel free to explore these exciting twists to make your Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting even more delightful!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar for a dairy-free option that maintains moisture.
Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add an extra 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate flavor for those who crave rich cocoa in every bite.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and a rustic touch that elevates the cake’s elegance.
Exotic Vanilla: Replace regular vanilla extract with vanilla bean paste for a more aromatic flavor that adds sophistication and depth to your frosting.
Layers of Fruit: Incorporate fresh raspberries or chopped strawberries between layers for a burst of freshness that complements the richness of the frosting.
Spicy Touch: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, inviting spice that transforms the usual flavors into a cozy experience.
Zesty Citrus: Mix the zest of one orange into the cream cheese frosting for a tangy flavor that brightens the cake while offering a refreshing balance.
Fun and Festive: Top your frosted cake with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter to turn your Red Velvet Cake into an eye-catching centerpiece for celebrations.

Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ingredients, like buttermilk and cream cheese, are fresh enough for this Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Always check the expiration dates and look for visual cues. Buttermilk should be smooth and not lumpy or off-smelling, while cream cheese should be creamy without any dark spots or sour odor. Fresh ingredients ensure your cake’s flavor and texture are spot on!

What’s the best way to store leftover Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
I recommend keeping your cake in the fridge wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or inside an airtight container. This prevents it from drying out and helps maintain that luscious, creamy frosting texture. Stored this way, it will stay fresh and delightful for up to 5 to 7 days.

Can I freeze Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting without ruining the texture?
Absolutely! Freezing is a fantastic way to enjoy this cake later. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then add a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature for about an hour before serving to enjoy that perfect moist crumb and smooth frosting.

What if my cake turns out too dense or dry—any troubleshooting tips?
Don’t worry, it happens! Make sure not to overmix your batter; gently folding just until combined keeps the crumb tender. Also, measure flour carefully—too much can dry the cake. Baking time matters too; start checking at 25 minutes with a toothpick for moist crumbs and avoid overbaking. Using room temperature ingredients helps the batter mix evenly for a fluffier result.

Is Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting safe for pets or suitable for people with allergies?
While delicious for us, this cake isn’t pet-friendly due to chocolate, sugar, and dairy. For allergy considerations, it contains eggs, dairy, and gluten. Feel free to experiment with gluten-free flour blends or dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, but keep in mind texture and flavor may vary slightly. I always encourage adapting recipes to suit your dietary needs safely!