Classic Red Velvet Cake

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups)
• Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 tablespoon)
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened)
• Granulated sugar (2 cups)
• Eggs (2 large)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Red food coloring (2 tablespoons)
• Buttermilk (1 cup)
• White vinegar (1 teaspoon)
• Heavy cream (1/4 cup)
• Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened)
• Powdered sugar (3 cups)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and red food coloring, mixing until fully incorporated and the batter is vibrant.
5. In a separate small bowl, combine the buttermilk, white vinegar, and baking soda. Allow it to fizz and then add it to the butter mixture, mixing well.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your cakes to avoid overbaking.
9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
11. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is creamy and well combined. Adjust the consistency with more cream if necessary.
12. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
13. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, creating a beautiful finish.
14. For a festive touch, decorate with sprinkles or fresh berries as desired. Slice and serve to impress your guests!