Red Velvet Christmas Cake

This festive Red Velvet Cake is perfect for the holiday season, with its vibrant red color, creamy frosting, and decorative touches to make it extra special for Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring (liquid or gel)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Decorations:

• Green and red sprinkles or edible glitter
• White chocolate shavings
• Candy canes or festive holiday decorations

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them 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, food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth and well combined.

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. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Make 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, beating until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.

5. Decorate

1. Use a piping bag to add decorative frosting details if desired.
2. Add green and red sprinkles, edible glitter, or other festive decorations.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Slice and serve your festive Red Velvet Christmas Cake. It’s best served slightly chilled.

Tips:

• For extra moisture, brush the cake layers with a simple syrup before frosting.
• Freeze the cake layers for 30 minutes before frosting to make them easier to work with.
• Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

This Red Velvet Christmas Cake is a showstopper and will surely add a festive touch to your holiday table!