Classic Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Red Velvet Cake is a true classic, boasting a vibrant red color and a delicious balance of rich cocoa and buttermilk flavors. The cake is soft and moist, perfectly complemented by a silky cream cheese frosting that adds a luxurious finish. This recipe uses kefir in place of traditional buttermilk and includes a hint of olive oil for an extra moist texture, making it a unique take on the beloved dessert.

Why You’ll Love This: Red Velvet Cake is beloved for its striking appearance and its delightful combination of flavors. The addition of cocoa powder provides a subtle chocolate taste that pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese frosting. This cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also for the eyes, making it a perfect centerpiece for celebrations and special occasions.

Perfect Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or any festive gathering where you want to impress. Its elegant appearance and exquisite taste make it suitable for formal events and casual parties alike.

Decoration Tips: For a stunning presentation, you can crumble some of the red velvet trimmings and sprinkle them over the top of the cake for a beautiful red contrast. Garnish with fresh berries or edible flowers for an added touch of elegance. Piping the frosting with decorative tips can also enhance the cake’s appearance, making it even more inviting.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 100g soft butter
  • 80g sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • Vanilla extract to taste
  • 40g olive oil
  • 300g kefir (or buttermilk)
  • 15g cocoa powder
  • 40g starch
  • 315g flour
  • 1.5 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tbsp vinegar
  • 1-2 tsp red food coloring
• For the Frosting:
  • 300g heavy cream
  • 80g caster sugar
  • 500g cream cheese or mascarpone

Recipe Steps:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease and flour a springform pan or line with parchment paper.
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and olive oil.
   • Mix in kefir, ensuring all wet ingredients are well combined.
   • Sift together the cocoa powder, starch, and flour. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
   • Combine the baking soda and vinegar in a small dish, and immediately fold into the batter along with the red food coloring.
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into two layers using a serrated knife.
2. Make the Frosting:
   • In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and caster sugar until it forms soft peaks.
   • Add the cream cheese or mascarpone and continue to mix until the frosting is smooth and even.
3. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the first layer.
   • Top with the second layer of cake and apply frosting to the top and sides of the entire cake.
   • Smooth out the frosting using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon.
4. Chill and Serve:
   • Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.

Enjoy your Classic Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, a luxurious and eye-catching dessert that is sure to be the highlight of any dining table!