Mom's Easy Red Velvet Cake

Experience the nostalgic charm of "Mom's Easy Red Velvet Cake," a dessert that's as delightful to make as it is to eat. This quick and foolproof recipe combines pantry staples like all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and buttermilk with vibrant red food coloring to create a show-stopping cake that's irresistibly moist and fluffy. Topped with a luscious homemade cream cheese frosting, the cake strikes the perfect balance between tangy richness and subtle sweetness. With just 20 minutes of prep time, plus simple instructions that anyone can follow, this decadent treat is ideal for special occasions or everyday indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday, or a cozy family gathering, this recipe delivers an unforgettable dessert that’s sure to become one of your favorites. Perfect for red velvet enthusiasts or anyone craving a classic homemade cake, "Mom's Easy Red Velvet Cake" is destined to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 40/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 12

Ingredients

• 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 1.75 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 8 ounces cream cheese
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 3

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, red food coloring, white vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing with a hand or stand mixer on low speed. Mix until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.

Step 5

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.

Step 6

Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

Step 7

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8

While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter together in a large mixing bowl until smooth and fluffy.

Step 9

Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 10

Once the cakes are completely cooled, level the tops with a serrated knife if needed. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.

Step 11

Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake. Smooth the frosting with an offset spatula for a clean finish.

Step 12

Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set. Slice and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2024.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	7645.4

Total Fat 357.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 112.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 138.2g
Cholesterol 751.9mg	0%
Sodium 3573.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 1091.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.0g	0%
Total Sugars 841.2g
Protein 67.9g	0%

Vitamin D 208.9IU	0%
Calcium 627.5mg	0%
Iron 18.0mg	0%
Potassium 1283.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.9%

Protein: 3.5%

Carbs: 55.6%