19 The Best Southern Red Velvet Cake Recipe Get Ready To Indulge!
Published on: Apr 30, 2024
For many, the mention of red velvet cake conjures up images of indulgent decadence and irresistible flavor. This iconic southern dessert has been a staple at celebrations and gatherings for decades, and for good reason. With its vibrant red color, rich cocoa taste, and creamy tanginess from the cream cheese frosting, red velvet cake is a true treat for the taste buds. But not all red velvet cakes are created equal. In fact, some may argue that there is a perfect formula for achieving the best southern red velvet cake. So, let's dive into the world of red velvet cake and discover the ultimate recipe that will have you coming back for seconds.
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Cake Flour, Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
Red velvet cake is a classic Southern dessert that has become a staple in many households. With its rich, velvety texture and beautiful red color, it's no wonder that this cake is a fan favorite. It's perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to holidays to just a simple treat for yourself. Whether you prefer a traditional recipe or want to put your own spin on it, there are endless possibilities when it comes to making a delicious red velvet cake.
A Southern red velvet cake is a true work of art. It's made with a combination of buttermilk, cocoa powder, and red food coloring to create that signature red color. The layers are then stacked and covered in a decadent cream cheese frosting, making it a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. This cake is a labor of love, as it takes time and precision to get it just right. But the end result is always worth it.
One of the best things about a Southern red velvet cake is that it's so versatile. You can add your own personal touch by incorporating different flavors and toppings. Some people like to add a hint of coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor, while others like to top it with fresh berries for a pop of color and sweetness. No matter what you choose, the end result will always be a delicious and impressive dessert.
The classic Southern red velvet cake is a must-try for anyone who loves desserts. It's a timeless recipe that has been passed down through generations, and for good reason. This cake is so moist and fluffy, it practically melts in your mouth. And the cream cheese frosting is just the perfect complement to the rich chocolate flavors. It's a crowd-pleaser for sure.
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The BEST Red Velvet Cake. Easy. Moist. Homemade
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Soda, Baking Powder, Salt
If you're new to making red velvet cake, don't worry. This recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to give you the best results. It's all about the right ingredients and the right technique. The key to achieving that perfect moist and fluffy texture is to mix the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them. This ensures that everything is evenly distributed and creates a smooth batter.
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Classic Red Velvet Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Salt, Olive Oil, Vanilla Extract
There's nothing quite like a classic red velvet cake. It's a timeless dessert that never goes out of style. Some may argue that it's just a chocolate cake with red food coloring, but true red velvet fans know that it's so much more than that. The combination of buttermilk and vinegar gives it a tangy flavor that sets it apart from other chocolate cakes. And of course, you can't forget about that iconic red color.
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Southern Pound Cake (Classic Pound Cake 101)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Salt, Unsalted
This classic Southern pound cake is a staple in many households. It's a simple yet delicious dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just want a sweet treat after dinner, this pound cake is sure to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? You probably already have all the ingredients in your pantry.
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Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Main Ingredients: Cake Flour, Baking Soda, Cocoa Powder, Salt, Granulated
If you're a fan of cream cheese frosting (who isn't?), then this red velvet cake recipe is for you. The tangy cream cheese pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate flavors of the cake. It's a match made in heaven. And the best part? This recipe uses a generous amount of cream cheese frosting, so you can really indulge in every bite.
For a twist on the classic red velvet cake, try this Southern pineapple cake. It's a combination of two beloved desserts – red velvet and pineapple upside-down cake. The result is a deliciously moist and flavorful cake that will have you coming back for seconds. The pineapple adds a refreshing twist to the classic cake and balances out the sweetness.
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Southern Cornbread – Southern Skillet Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yellow Cornmeal, Flour, Baking Soda, Salt
Cornbread is a staple in Southern cuisine, and this skillet cornbread is a must-try. It's crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside. The secret to achieving that perfect texture is using a cast iron skillet. This allows the cornbread to cook evenly and creates a beautiful golden crust. Serve it warm with some butter for the ultimate comfort food.
You can never go wrong with a classic butter pound cake. This Southern version is rich and buttery with a dense yet tender crumb. It's perfect for any special occasion or just as a simple treat for yourself. This cake is so versatile that you can enjoy it on its own or add your own twist with different toppings or glazes.
Southern smothered chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner. It's made by cooking chicken in a rich and savory gravy until it becomes tender and falls off the bone. The result is a delicious and hearty meal that will warm your soul. Serve it over rice or with some warm biscuits for a complete Southern meal.
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Red Velvet Sweet Rolls
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Warm Water, Red Velvet Cake Mix
If you're a fan of cinnamon rolls, then you have to try these red velvet sweet rolls. They have all the deliciousness of a classic cinnamon roll, but with a beautiful red color and a hint of chocolate. And let's not forget about the cream cheese icing on top. These sweet rolls are perfect for a special breakfast or brunch.
Cornbread dressing, also known as stuffing, is a classic Southern side dish that is a must-have on Thanksgiving. It's made with crumbled cornbread, vegetables, and seasonings, and baked until golden and crispy. The result is a delicious and comforting dish that pairs perfectly with turkey and all the other Thanksgiving fixings.
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, and for good reason. They're packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a delicious and healthy side dish. These Southern collard greens are cooked with bacon, onions, and seasonings, giving them a delicious and smoky flavor. Serve them with some cornbread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Oxtails may not be as popular as other cuts of meat, but in Southern cuisine, they're a prized ingredient. These Southern smothered oxtails are cooked low and slow in a rich and flavorful gravy until they become tender and fall off the bone. It's a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a special occasion.
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Classic Flaky Southern Biscuits
Main Ingredients: Flour, Whole Milk, Butter, Sugar, Baking Powder, Salt
No Southern meal is complete without a side of biscuits. These classic flaky Southern biscuits are a staple in many households. They're light, buttery, and perfect for soaking up all that delicious gravy or dipping into some honey. The key to achieving that perfect flaky texture is to handle the dough gently and not overwork it.
Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food in many households, and this Southern version takes it to the next level. It's made with a combination of cheddar and Gruyere cheese, giving it a rich and creamy texture. The addition of a crunchy breadcrumb topping adds a nice contrast of textures. This baked mac and cheese is a must-try for any cheese lover.
If you're a fan of mac and cheese but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen, try this Southern baked mac and cheese recipe. It's a quick and easy version that still delivers on flavor. The secret to achieving that creamy and cheesy texture is using a combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese. And the best part? You can have it on the table in under an hour.
Last but definitely not least, we have Southern caramel cake. This cake is a true labor of love, but the end result is worth every minute spent in the kitchen. The layers are made with a rich and moist yellow cake, and the caramel icing is made from scratch using butter, sugar, and cream. It's a decadent and indulgent dessert that is perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients: The Key to a Perfect Red Velvet Cake
Red Food Coloring
One of the defining features of a red velvet cake is its vibrant, ruby red color. And while some may argue that the color comes from the reaction between cocoa and vinegar, the truth is that a few drops of red food coloring will give you that iconic hue. To achieve the perfect shade, opt for gel food coloring instead of liquid. Gel food coloring is more concentrated, so you'll need less of it to achieve the desired color, and it won't affect the texture of your cake.
Cocoa Powder
Speaking of cocoa, the type of cocoa powder you use can make or break your red velvet cake. For the best flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder. This type of cocoa has been treated with an alkaline solution, giving it a smoother and less acidic taste compared to natural cocoa powder. This results in a richer, more intense chocolate flavor in your cake.
Buttermilk
Another crucial ingredient in a red velvet cake is buttermilk. Buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the cake, making it moist and fluffy. For the best results, use full-fat buttermilk instead of low-fat or non-fat. The higher fat content adds richness and flavor to the cake.
Technique: The Secret to a Perfect Red Velvet Cake
Creaming Method
The technique used to mix the batter can also make a significant difference in the texture of your red velvet cake. The creaming method is the most commonly used method for making a red velvet cake. It involves beating the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, then adding in the eggs and other wet ingredients. This method helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a light and tender cake.
Don't Overmix
When it comes to mixing the batter, it's important not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a tough and dense cake. To avoid this, mix the ingredients just until they are combined. It's okay if there are a few lumps in the batter; they will disappear as the cake bakes.
Proper Baking Time
The final key to a perfect red velvet cake is knowing when it's done baking. To ensure that your cake is cooked evenly, use a cake tester or toothpick to check the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready. Overbaking can result in a dry and crumbly cake, so keep a close eye on it.
The Best Southern Red Velvet Cake Recipe
Now that you have all the key ingredients and techniques for the perfect red velvet cake, it's time to put it all together. Follow this tried and tested recipe for the ultimate southern red velvet cake that will have your guests begging for the recipe:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper and non-stick cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, sift together 2 and 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of Dutch-processed cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
In a separate bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 tablespoon of red food coloring and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
Gradually add in the dry ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk, until all ingredients are combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, frost the cake with your favorite cream cheese frosting and enjoy!
In Conclusion
There you have it, the key ingredients and techniques for the best southern red velvet cake. With the right ingredients and proper technique, you can achieve a cake that is moist, tender, and bursting with flavor. So next time you're craving a slice of red velvet cake, skip the store-bought version and try making it yourself with this foolproof recipe. Your taste buds will thank you.
