Scarlet Love Cake

Indulge in the tender embrace of a scarlet-hued masterpiece, blending the rich flavors of cocoa and vanilla. Moist and velvety, this red velvet cake is topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, perfectly balanced between tangy and sweet. Its delectable texture and vibrant color make it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon almond extractCream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
steps
- 1.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
- 2.
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- 3.
In a separate large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and red food coloring.
- 4.
Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Stir in the white vinegar and almond extract.
- 5.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- 6.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- 7.
Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until creamy.
- 8.
Once the cakes are cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
- 9.
Decorate as desired and serve with a smile.