Buttermilk Red Velvet Layer Cake

Buttermilk Red Velvet Layer Cake: Moist, Velvety, and Irresistibly Sweet

Few cakes are as visually stunning and decadently delicious as a Buttermilk Red Velvet Layer Cake. With its vibrant red layers, tender crumb, and luscious cream cheese frosting, this classic dessert is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration where you want to impress.

The secret to this cake’s signature texture? Buttermilk, which adds moisture, a subtle tang, and a soft, velvety crumb that melts in your mouth. Paired with rich cream cheese frosting, every bite is a perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and slightly tangy.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

Moist and tender layers thanks to buttermilk
Beautiful, vibrant red color that wows at any occasion
Classic cream cheese frosting for rich flavor
Easy-to-follow recipe with straightforward ingredients
Perfect for layering, cupcakes, or sheet cakes

Ingredients

For the Cake

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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

Two 8-inch round cake pans
Parchment paper
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Cooling racks
Offset spatula or butter knife for frosting

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully incorporated. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Remove from oven and let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fully combined. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly. Decorate with additional frosting swirls, cake crumbs, or sprinkles if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Cake

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Do not overmix—overmixing can make the cake dense.
Measure flour properly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
Red food coloring can be liquid, gel, or powder—gel gives more vibrant color without affecting texture.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Variations

Chocolate Red Velvet: Add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder for richer chocolate flavor.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs, use plant-based butter, and a nondairy cream cheese.
Cupcake Version: Bake in cupcake tins for 24 cupcakes; reduce baking time to 18–20 minutes.
Layer Cake with Berries: Add fresh raspberries or strawberries between layers for extra flavor.

Storage

Room Temperature: Covered, up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months; thaw before frosting.

Nutrition Estimate (Per Slice – 12 slices)

Calories: ~380
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Sugar: 36g

Why This Cake Works

The combination of buttermilk and vinegar reacts with the baking soda to create a light, airy texture while enhancing the deep red color. The cream cheese frosting adds sweetness and tang, complementing the cake perfectly. The result is a moist, tender, and visually stunning dessert every time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a glass of cold milk or coffee
Pair with fresh berries for added freshness
Top with chocolate shavings for extra indulgence
Use for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion

Final Thoughts

This Buttermilk Red Velvet Layer Cake is a classic dessert that’s sure to impress anyone who tastes it. With its tender crumb, rich cream cheese frosting, and beautiful red layers, it’s perfect for celebrations or anytime you want a show-stopping dessert.