Red Velvet Treats are a delightful choice for any celebration. They are soft, sweet, and topped with creamy frosting that makes every bite feel special. Whether it’s Oscar Night, a birthday party, or a cozy family gathering, these treats are sure to impress. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Why You Will Love This Red Velvet Treat
This recipe is great because it combines rich flavors with simple ingredients. It requires minimal prep time, making it ideal for busy families. You can whip up these beautiful cakes in just a couple of hours. Everyone will adore the tender texture and the gorgeous red color, making it not just delicious but visually appealing, too. It’s a wonderful way to bring a little joy into your day.
How to Make Red Velvet Treat
Making these treats is straightforward and fun. Just mix the wet and dry ingredients, pour them into pans, and let the oven do the work. In no time, you’ll have two luscious cakes ready to cool and be frosted. This process is perfect for beginners, as it doesn’t involve any complicated steps or techniques.
What You Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 cup 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 (for topping)
Step-by-Step
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In another bowl, mix the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost with cream cheese frosting and enjoy your red velvet treat at your Oscar Night celebration!
How to Serve Red Velvet Treat
These treats can be served in various ways. You can enjoy them simply frosted with cream cheese, or add sprinkles for a festive touch. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for gatherings. They also make a lovely dessert at any celebration, bringing a cheerful pop of color to your table.
How to Store Red Velvet Treat
To keep your treats fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight and frost as desired.
Recipe Tips
- Measure ingredients carefully for the best results.
- Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Check the cakes in the oven a few minutes before the baking time is up to avoid overbaking.
- Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use gel food coloring for a richer color without changing the batter’s consistency.
Variations & Swaps
- For a lighter option, substitute half of the vegetable oil with applesauce.
- Add chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious twist.
- If you want a holiday flair, use peppermint extract and mix crushed peppermint into the frosting.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cakes a day in advance. Just let them cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. Frost them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Is it okay to freeze red velvet cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the un-frosted cakes for up to three months. Just wrap them well in plastic and foil before placing them in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to use them.
How do I reheat leftover cake?
To gently reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This warms them without drying them out. Or, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about five minutes.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to one cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes until it thickens slightly.
What are some common mistakes to avoid?
Be careful not to overmix the batter, as it can make your cake dense. Also, make sure your ingredients are fresh and at room temperature for the best results.
Red Velvet Treats
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup 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
For Topping
- 1 batch cream cheese frosting for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In another bowl, mix the oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
- Once cooled, frost with cream cheese frosting and enjoy your red velvet treat at your Oscar Night celebration!
