Red Velvet Cake holds a special place in the realm of classic American desserts, revered for its striking red color and delightful flavor profile that combines hints of chocolate with a subtle tanginess. Originating possibly from the early 20th century, its exact genesis remains debated, but its popularity today is undisputed, making it a staple in bakeries and homes alike across the country.
Recipe Overview:
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 1 cake
Category: Dessert
Keywords: < 60 Mins
Ingredients:
This recipe calls for a mix of pantry staples and a few specialty items to achieve that perfect Red Velvet texture and taste:
- 2 1/2 cups of flour
- 1 1/2 cups of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of margarine
- 2 packages (8 ounces each) of Philadelphia Cream Cheese
- 1 box (16 ounces) of confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup of chopped pecans (traditionally walnuts are used, but pecans can be substituted)
Nutritional Information:
This Red Velvet Cake is indulgent, with the following approximate nutritional values per serving (based on typical slice size):
- Calories: 9473.4
- Total Fat: 563.7g
- Saturated Fat: 173.8g
- Cholesterol: 682.3mg
- Sodium: 4319.4mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 1046.9g
- Dietary Fiber: 21.4g
- Sugar: 765.5g
- Protein: 95.2g
Instructions:
Cake Layers:
- Preparation: Begin by sifting together the dry ingredients—flour, sugar, and baking soda—into a large mixing bowl.
- Mixing: Add the buttermilk, vinegar, egg, and vanilla extract in the order listed. Mix the batter thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter evenly between the two pans.
- Baking: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Cooling: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove them from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Filling & Frosting:
- Preparing the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, allow the margarine and Philadelphia Cream Cheese to soften at room temperature. Once softened, cream them together until smooth and fluffy.
- Sweetening: Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, beating well after each addition until the frosting is creamy and spreadable.
- Flavoring: Mix in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. Adjust the sweetness or texture to your preference.
- Assembly: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting evenly over the top.
- Layering: Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosted bottom layer.
- Finishing: Use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake evenly. For a smooth finish, use a cake spatula or knife dipped in warm water.
- Storage: Store the cake in a cool place. If not serving immediately, refrigerate to maintain freshness.
Tips for Success:
- Red Coloring: Achieve a vibrant red hue by using a good quality red food coloring. Start with a small amount and adjust to your desired shade.
- Texture: Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a smooth, lump-free batter which contributes to a finer crumb in the finished cake.
- Frosting Consistency: Ensure the margarine and cream cheese are soft but not melted for a smooth and creamy frosting texture.
- Storage: Due to the cream cheese frosting, store the cake covered in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature before serving for best taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Red Velvet Cake is a showstopper dessert perfect for celebrations or any occasion where you want to impress. Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the richness of the cake.
Conclusion:
With its rich history and irresistible flavor, this Red Velvet Cake recipe promises to be a standout in your baking repertoire. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake is sure to delight with every moist, velvety bite. Enjoy the process of baking and sharing this beloved dessert with family and friends—it’s a true testament to the joy of homemade treats made with love and care.
