Introduction
Southern Red Velvet Cake is a beloved classic that epitomizes indulgence and celebration. With its enchanting red hue and a delightful hint of cocoa, this cake boasts a moist, tender crumb that will have your taste buds dancing. Topped with rich cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect dessert for any special occasion, from birthdays to holidays. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this stunning cake that combines tradition and flavor in every bite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the cake:
250g all-purpose flour
300g granulated sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cocoa powder
240ml buttermilk
180ml vegetable oil
2 large eggs
2 tbsp red food coloring
1 tsp white vinegar
2 tsp vanilla extract
For the cream cheese frosting:
225g cream cheese, softened
115g unsalted butter, softened
400g powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Enjoy the delightful process of creating this Southern Red Velvet Cake, and savor the delicious results with friends and family. Whether you’re celebrating a momentous occasion or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Prepare two 23cm round cake pans by greasing them with butter or oil, then dusting them with flour to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until evenly combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, red food coloring, white vinegar, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until thoroughly blended.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the batter is smooth and completely combined, ensuring not to overmix.
5. Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly into the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. To check if the cakes are done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
6. Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
8. Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are thoroughly cooled, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting between the two layers. Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake, ensuring an even layer.
9. Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake into pieces and serve. Enjoy your delicious Southern Red Velvet Cake!
Notes
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings, perfect for sharing at gatherings or celebrations.
Baking Tip
For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smoother batter.
Storage
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual pieces.
Variations
Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a layer of fruit jam for added flavor and texture.
Cook techniques
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Whisk the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder together in a bowl to ensure even distribution and prevent lumps.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined for a consistent color and flavor.
Incorporating Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients to maintain a smooth batter and avoid overmixing, which can lead to a tough cake.
Baking the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and ensure they are not overcrowded in the oven, allowing for even baking and rising.
Cooling the Cake
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess.
Making Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth before gradually adding powdered sugar, ensuring a creamy texture without lumps.
Frosting the Cake
Spread frosting evenly between the layers before frosting the entire cake to create a balanced look and flavor throughout.
FAQ
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, but for a similar tangy flavor, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to mimic buttermilk.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
You can use canola oil, melted butter, or even avocado oil as a substitute for vegetable oil in this recipe.
How do I store leftover Red Velvet Cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for better texture.
Can I freeze Red Velvet Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Frosting can also be frozen separately.
What if I don’t have white vinegar?
You can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar, which works similarly to activate the baking soda for leavening.
Conclusion
The Southern Red Velvet Cake is a delightful treat that brings together a moist, tender texture with a subtle cocoa flavor, elevated by the creamy richness of the cream cheese frosting. Perfect for celebrations and gatherings, this cake not only serves as a staple of Southern cuisine but also captivates with its vibrant color and taste. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to impress.
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