Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you are ready to delight your taste buds and wow your guests, the Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your new best friend in baking. This cake stands out with its irresistible deep purple hue and moist, tender crumb, perfectly balanced by a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s not just a feast for the eyes but a slice of pure happiness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a special celebration or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe brings a splash of color and a burst of flavor to your dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for the Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is simple and straightforward. Each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and the signature purple color that makes this cake so special.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of your cake, providing structure without heaviness.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right while enhancing moisture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise and stay light.
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder: A small touch to deepen the velvet texture without overpowering the color.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors, making every bite taste just right.
• 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to that tender crumb.
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and soft.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds tang and helps the cake rise beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons purple food coloring: The secret to that stunning, vibrant purple shade.
• 1 teaspoon vinegar: Works with baking soda to give the cake a fine, fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warm, inviting depth to the batter.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a creamy base for the frosting.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds tang and richness that makes the frosting irresistible.
• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve that smooth, fluffy consistency.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting with a gentle sweet aroma.

How to Make Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring two 9-inch round cake pans ensures your cakes will release easily after baking, preserving the beautiful soft edges you’re aiming for.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. This blend ensures your cake will have even flavor distribution and that classic velvet cake crumb.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, purple food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract. These wet ingredients add moisture, flavor, and that enchanting purple color to your batter.

Step 4: Blend Dry Into Wet

Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients just until combined. Overmixing could make the cake dense, but gentle folding keeps it light and fluffy with a velvety texture.

Step 5: Divide Batter and Bake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared cake pans, then bake for about 30 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean to signal perfect doneness.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes to settle, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting. This step is key to prevent the frosting from melting.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until light and fluffy, making sure the frosting is ready to elevate your cake to perfection.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Place one cake layer on your serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top. Add the second layer and cover the entire cake—including the sides—with the remaining frosting for a beautifully even finish.

Step 9: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate your masterpiece for at least an hour to allow the frosting to set firmly, which not only improves texture but makes cutting and serving a breeze.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Whether chilled or at room temperature, slice your Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe to reveal its stunning layers and savor every luscious bite.

How to Serve Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

To make your Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe truly stand out, try garnishing with fresh berries like blueberries or blackberries, edible flowers, or even a sprinkle of purple sanding sugar. These small details add texture, freshness, and visual appeal that enhance each slice.

Side Dishes

Pair slices of this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic combo. For a more adventurous pairing, serve with a light citrus salad to contrast the cake’s sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For celebrations, consider decorating the cake with themed toppers or ombre purple sprinkles. Serving individual mini Purple Velvet Cakes in clear cups layered with frosting and berries also makes for a delightful presentation that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, cover your cake loosely with plastic wrap or a cake dome and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 4 days, making it perfect to savor over several days or share with friends.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers tightly wrapped in plastic and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw completely at room temperature before frosting and serving.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not recommended. Instead, take slices out of the fridge 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to bloom beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use a different color instead of purple in this recipe?

Absolutely! While purple is the signature trait, this recipe works wonderfully with red, pink, or even blue food coloring if you want to mix things up and create your own velvet cake variation.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend can work, but be sure to choose one that’s designed for baking and includes xanthan gum for structure. Texture may vary slightly but still delicious.

How do I know when the cake is baked perfectly?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cakes; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cakes are done. Avoid opening the oven too early to prevent sinking.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Definitely! Cream cheese frosting can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Before frosting the cake, whip it briefly to restore its silky, fluffy texture.

What should I do if my frosting is too runny?

If the frosting feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes, then beat again. If it’s still too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar gradually until it reaches the desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

The Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a celebration in every bite. It combines stunning color with rich, velvety flavor and creamy frosting that you will fall in love with. Gather your loved ones, bake up a storm, and enjoy the smiles that come with sharing this unforgettable cake. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.

Print