Decadent Red Velvet 2-Layer Cake with Creamy Frosting

Want to wow your loved ones this Valentine’s Day? This 2-layer red velvet cake is as gorgeous as it is delicious. With its striking red hue and subtle chocolate flavor, it’s the ultimate dessert to celebrate love—whether it’s with your special someone, friends, or family.

Each bite is pure bliss, thanks to its ultra-moist texture and tender crumb, perfectly paired with a creamy, dreamy frosting. This cake isn’t just a treat; it’s a heartfelt gesture that will make any celebration extra memorable.

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A Perfect Valentine’s Day Treat

This red velvet cake is a timeless classic, blending a touch of cocoa with the tangy richness of buttermilk for a perfectly balanced flavor. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, its sweet and tangy notes create an irresistible combination that makes every bite unforgettable.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar
Cream Cheese Frosting: 8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix together the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare Frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Decorate: Optionally, decorate the cake with red velvet cake crumbs or fresh berries for an extra touch.