Santa's Favorite Cake

Indulge in the magic of the holidays with *Santa’s Favorite Cake*, a show-stopping dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious. This moist, vibrant red velvet cake is infused with subtle cocoa notes and a hint of tanginess from buttermilk, perfectly complemented by a luscious cream cheese frosting. For an extra dose of holiday cheer, optional peppermint extract adds a refreshing twist, making every bite feel like Christmas morning. Topped with crushed candy canes or sprinkles, this cake is perfect for holiday gatherings, bringing a dazzling centerpiece to any table. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and simple steps to follow, this crowd-pleasing recipe is a holiday essential that’s sure to become a family tradition. Perfect for Christmas parties, dessert tables, or even as a gift for Santa himself—this cake truly lives up to its name!

Nutriscore Rating: 37/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 10

Ingredients

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

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Alternatively, line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.

Step 2

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

Step 3

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

Step 4

Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

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 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7

Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 8

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and cream cheese together with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth.

Step 9

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated.

Step 10

Mix in the milk and optional peppermint extract, adjusting for desired frosting consistency.

Step 11

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top.

Step 12

Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 13

Decorate with festive sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a holiday touch.

Step 14

Slice, serve, and enjoy a piece of Santa's Favorite Cake!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2158.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	8241.8

Total Fat 406.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 141.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 138.3g
Cholesterol 878.6mg	0%
Sodium 4770.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 1143.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 12.0g	0%
Total Sugars 892.2g
Protein 68.7g	0%

Vitamin D 219.9IU	0%
Calcium 676.5mg	0%
Iron 18.3mg	0%
Potassium 1338.9mg	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: 43.0%

Protein: 3.2%

Carbs: 53.8%