Red Velvet Christmas Cake

Why This Recipe Works: This Red Velvet Christmas Cake is a festive twist on the classic red velvet cake, perfect for holiday celebrations. The vibrant red color and rich, velvety texture make it a show-stopping dessert. Topped with creamy cream cheese frosting and decorated with holiday-themed decorations, this cake is as delicious as it is beautiful.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration:

• Red and green sprinkles
• Edible glitter
• Holiday-themed cake toppers or decorations

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours

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How to Make This Recipe:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
   • In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
   • In another large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until smooth and well combined.
2. Bake the Cake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Add the vanilla extract and continue beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving platter or cake stand.
   • Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
   • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
5. Decorate the Cake:
   • Decorate the frosted cake with red and green sprinkles, edible glitter, and holiday-themed cake toppers or decorations as desired.

Expert Tips:

• Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• For a more vibrant red color, you can add a few extra drops of red food coloring.
• Use an offset spatula for a smooth and even frosting application.

How to Store This Recipe: Store the Red Velvet Christmas Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.