Delicious Red Velvet Strawberry Cake: A Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Create a stunning dessert with this Red Velvet Strawberry Cake! With its vibrant red sponge layers, creamy frosting, and fresh strawberry garnish, this cake is both beautiful and irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a show-stopping dessert.

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cake:

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

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 16 oz (2 blocks) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Fresh strawberries
• Whipped cream (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth and lump-free.

2. Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. 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

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.

4. Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
2. Add the second cake layer and spread frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake.

5. Garnish and Decorate

1. Arrange fresh strawberries on top of the cake for a vibrant and elegant finish.
2. Add dollops of whipped cream around the edges if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Fluffy Texture: The buttermilk and oil make the cake incredibly soft and tender.
• Luscious Frosting: The creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with the cake.
• Beautiful Presentation: The red sponge layers and fresh strawberries make this dessert a visual treat.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring provides a vibrant red color without altering the batter’s consistency.
2. Chill the Cake Layers: For easier assembly, chill the cake layers before frosting.
3. Slice Strawberries Fresh: Add strawberries just before serving to maintain their freshness.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers in advance and store them tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Assemble and garnish on the day of serving.

2. How should I store the cake?
Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

3. Can I use a different frosting?
Absolutely! Buttercream or whipped cream frosting also works well with this cake.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Red Velvet Strawberry Cake with:

• Freshly Brewed Coffee: Complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
• Champagne or Sparkling Wine: Adds an elegant touch for special occasions.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing for an extra indulgent dessert.

Conclusion

This Red Velvet Strawberry Cake is the perfect dessert for making any occasion extra special. Its vibrant color, creamy frosting, and fresh strawberry topping make it as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple, stunning, and sure to impress. Try it today and savor every bite!