Red Velvet Birthday Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Red Velvet Birthday Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cocoa powder; 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 tablespoons red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Celebrate in style with this stunning Red Velvet Birthday Cake topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. This moist and vibrant cake is perfect for birthdays or special occasions, bringing a touch of elegance to your dessert table. Its rich flavor and eye-catching layers make it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Don’t forget to add sprinkles for that festive flair!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T02:53:48.873Z

This Red Velvet Birthday Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience! Perfectly moist with a subtle cocoa flavor, it's luxurious yet approachable. The cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tang that balances the sweetness flawlessly.

The Perfect Cake for Any Celebration

This Red Velvet Birthday Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a statement piece for any celebration. With its rich, velvety texture and vibrant color, it captures the essence of joy and festivity. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, an anniversary celebration, or any special gathering, this cake will undoubtedly impress your guests. Its striking appearance is matched only by its delicious flavor, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.

Perfectly balanced with a hint of cocoa and the tangy frosting, this cake is designed to delight the taste buds of both children and adults alike. The cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious touch that complements the cake's unique flavor profile, making every slice irresistible. You can feel confident serving this cake, knowing that it will be the highlight of your dessert table.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Red Velvet Cake turns out perfectly, pay attention to the temperature of your ingredients. Using room temperature eggs and buttermilk helps create a smooth batter and contributes to an even bake. Additionally, be sure to measure your flour accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help with precision, as too much flour can lead to a dense cake. Remember, achieving the right consistency in your batter is key to a light and fluffy texture.

Another tip for baking success is to check your cakes for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Oven temperatures can vary, so using a toothpick to test the center will guarantee that your cakes are perfectly baked and ready to cool. Allowing the cakes to cool in the pans slightly before transferring them to a wire rack will prevent them from breaking.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Red Velvet Birthday Cake is frosted and ready to serve, store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can be enjoyed for up to three days at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator. If you choose to refrigerate the cake, allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

For added flair, consider decorating the cake with festive sprinkles or edible glitter. Fresh berries or chocolate shavings can also elevate the visual appeal and flavor. Regardless of your choice, always aim to serve the cake on a beautiful platter to showcase its stunning red layers and luscious frosting. This cake is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who indulge!

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In another bowl, combine the oil and sugar, then add the buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whip until fluffy and creamy.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the sides and top of the cake.

Add sprinkles for a festive touch!

Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing for best results.

Understanding Red Velvet Cake

Red Velvet Cake is renowned for its striking appearance and unique flavor, a delicious blend of chocolate and vanilla. Traditionally, the red hue comes from the reaction between acidic ingredients like buttermilk and cocoa powder. In modern recipes, red food coloring is often added to achieve that iconic deep crimson color, enhancing both the aesthetics and the joy of celebration.

The origins of Red Velvet Cake trace back to the 19th century, where it was a luxurious dessert, often served at special occasions. Today, it remains a beloved classic, symbolizing love and festivity. Understanding its rich history adds a layer of appreciation for this delightful cake, making it a wonderful choice for your special celebrations.

Cream Cheese Frosting: A Perfect Pairing

Cream cheese frosting is a popular choice for Red Velvet Cake due to its tangy flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake itself. The creaminess of the frosting wraps around each slice, creating a rich, indulgent experience that enhances the overall dessert. This combination of flavors is what makes Red Velvet Cake a timeless favorite for many.

When making cream cheese frosting, proper technique is key. Ensure your butter and cream cheese are adequately softened to create a smooth texture, avoiding lumps. Additionally, whipping the frosting until light and fluffy allows for a beautiful spread that not only tastes delicious but looks stunning when applied to the cake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake a day in advance?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Frost it just before serving.

→ Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

Yes, you can mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.