A soft, fluffy red velvet cake with a hint of cocoa and topped with rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or anytime you crave a classic treat.
Cake:
2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1½ cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 tbsp red food coloring
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp white vinegar
Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
3½–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1½ tsp vanilla extract
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch pans.
Sift flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt into a bowl.
In another bowl, beat sugar, eggs, and oil until smooth. Add buttermilk, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar. Mix.
Gradually add dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Divide batter between pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes. Cool completely.
For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar in batches. Stir in vanilla and beat until fluffy.
Frost cooled cakes and decorate as desired.
Store in fridge for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.