You’re looking for an effortless treat that tastes amazing? This Simple Red Velvet Snacking Cake is your answer. It’s a delightful one bowl cake recipe, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for that classic red velvet depth.
- Buttermilk: Essential for tenderness and tang; whole milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar works as a quick substitute.
- Red Food Coloring: Gel food coloring gives the best vibrant red hue.
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is best for a rich, smooth frosting.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon red food coloring (gel recommended)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 9
- Calories per serving: 350
- Tools: 8×8 inch baking pan, large mixing bowl, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan, ensuring the sides are coated well. This prevents your delicious one bowl cake from sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps, creating a smooth base for your snacking cake.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar to the dry ingredients. Mix everything until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cake tough.
4. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
5. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and light. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
6. Frost and Serve
Once your red velvet cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares and enjoy your delightful one bowl cake.
Variation Ideas:
- Chocolate Chips: Fold ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for an extra treat.
- Different Extracts: Try almond extract in the frosting for a subtle flavor twist.
- Mini Cakes: Bake in a muffin tin for individual red velvet cupcakes, adjusting baking time.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Simple Red Velvet Snacking Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days. This one bowl cake is best enjoyed at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Why is my red velvet cake not very red?
You might need more red food coloring, especially if you’re using liquid instead of gel. Gel coloring provides a much more vibrant hue.
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it, unfrosted, at room temperature, tightly covered. Frost it just before serving.
- What if I don’t have buttermilk?
Combine 1 cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Can I use light cream cheese for the frosting?
While you can, full-fat cream cheese provides a richer and firmer frosting. Light cream cheese might make your frosting too soft.
- How do I know when the cake is fully cooked?
Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean with no wet batter, it’s done.
- Is this really a one bowl cake?
Yes, all the cake ingredients are mixed in a single bowl, making cleanup a breeze.