Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake

Name: Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon cocoa powder; 1 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 2 tablespoons red food coloring; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon white vinegar; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon milk, if needed

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Elevate your dessert game with this luscious Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake recipe. Moist and fluffy, this cake features the classic rich red color and a delightful cream cheese frosting that makes it perfect for any celebration. Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply a sweet treat at home, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-17T02:53:42.979Z

This Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake stands out not only for its vibrant color but also for its delicious flavor and texture.

A Classic Dessert with a Twist

Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake is not just another dessert; it's a delightful experience for both the eyes and the palate. The rich, deep red color is often associated with love and celebration, making it a perfect choice for special occasions. This cake stands out with its velvety texture, which is achieved by the addition of buttermilk. Not only does the buttermilk enhance the flavor, but it also contributes to the cake's moistness, ensuring that each bite is tender and delicious.

The cake's flavor profile is a harmonious blend of cocoa powder and vanilla, which complements the sweetness without being overpowering. Frosted with creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake becomes even more irresistible. The slight tanginess of the cream cheese frosting balances the sweetness of the cake, creating an unforgettable dessert that keeps guests coming back for more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a romantic dinner, or simply indulging in a family gathering, this Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake is sure to impress. Its vibrant color and luscious frosting make it an eye-catching centerpiece on any dessert table. Garnishing with fresh berries or edible flowers can elevate the aesthetic appeal even further, aligning with any party theme or season.

The versatility of this cake allows for personal touches; you can easily adapt it to suit individual tastes. For instance, adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter can provide added texture. Likewise, experimenting with different flavors in the frosting can create various versions, making this cake a flexible choice for different occasions and personal preferences.

Tips for Baking Success

To ensure your Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake turns out perfectly, remember a few essential baking tips. First, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the eggs and buttermilk. This helps in creating a smoother batter and a more uniform cake texture. Additionally, properly measuring your flour is crucial; using the spoon-and-level method can prevent a dense cake that results from excess flour.

Another important tip is not to overmix the batter. Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Finally, always conduct a toothpick test to check for doneness. Every oven is different, and baking times can vary, so relying on visual cues alone may not yield the best results.

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

1 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk, if needed

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

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.

In another bowl, mix the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into greased cake pans.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Allow cakes to cool completely on wire racks.

Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until creamy.

Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.

Add vanilla and, if necessary, a little milk to reach desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake

Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate.

Spread a layer of frosting on top.

Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

Decorate as desired and enjoy!

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

After baking, store your Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its freshness, consider refrigerating it, as the cream cheese frosting may not hold up well in warmer temperatures. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor experience.

For serving, slice the cake using a sharp, serrated knife to achieve clean cuts. Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra decadent treat. A side of fresh berries can also complement the sweetness beautifully and add a refreshing contrast.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of baking is the ability to customize recipes to suit personal tastes or dietary restrictions. To make this Red Velvet Buttermilk Cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For those seeking a healthier alternative, consider replacing sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but keep an eye on the liquid ratios in the batter.

If you're looking to add a unique twist, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter, or experiment with flavored extract, such as almond or coconut. Each variation can transform your Red Velvet Cake into a completely new experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other colors instead of red food coloring?

Yes, you can experiment with other colors, but it may change the classic look.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep it fresh.