Purple Velvet Cake is a visually stunning and indulgently moist dessert that’s sure to impress. With its vibrant color and velvety texture, this cake makes any occasion feel special. The creamy layers of tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly complement the richness of the cake, while the pop of purple adds an element of surprise.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a wedding, or just want to make something unique, this Purple Velvet Cake will steal the show.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Spatula
- 9-inch round cake pans (2 or 3, depending on desired layers)
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients Overview
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the structure of the cake.
- Cocoa Powder: Provides the signature velvet cake flavor.
- Buttermilk: Adds tanginess and ensures a tender crumb.
- Purple Food Coloring: Gives the cake its unique hue.
- Cream Cheese: The base for a luscious frosting.
- Butter: Adds richness and flavor to both the cake and frosting.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Purple gel food coloring
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
For the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two or three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, melted butter, vegetable oil, eggs, vinegar, vanilla extract, and purple food coloring. Mix well.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- 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.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
Assembling the Cake
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
- Repeat with the remaining layers, finishing with frosting on the top and sides of the cake.
- Smooth the frosting with a spatula or create decorative swirls.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pans: Grease and line with parchment to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Combine separately for even distribution.
- Incorporate Food Coloring: Adjust the amount to achieve your desired shade of purple.
- Bake and Cool: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting.
- Frost and Decorate: Layer and cover the cake with cream cheese frosting.
Recipe Tips
- Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant purple without affecting the batter’s consistency.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter and frosting.
- Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla or berry ice cream.
- Serve with a glass of milk or a hot cup of tea for a comforting combination.
- Decorate with edible flowers or purple sprinkles for an extra festive touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural food coloring?
Yes, but the color may be less vibrant than with gel food coloring.
How do I store the cake?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Decorate with fresh berries like blackberries or blueberries for added flavor and contrast.
- Create a drip effect with white chocolate ganache for a dramatic presentation.
- Serve as the centerpiece for special occasions or themed parties.
Purple Velvet Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a statement. With its stunning color, rich flavor, and creamy frosting, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone who takes a bite!
Purple Velvet Cake
Purple Velvet Cake is a visually stunning and indulgently moist dessert that's sure to impress. With its vibrant color and velvety texture, this cake makes any occasion feel special. The creamy layers of tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly complement the richness of the cake, while the pop of purple adds an element of surprise. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a wedding, or just want to make something unique, this Purple Velvet Cake will steal the show.
Ingredients
- For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup buttermilk room temperature
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Purple gel food coloring
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- For the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two or three 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In a separate bowl, combine buttermilk, melted butter, vegetable oil, eggs, vinegar, vanilla extract, and purple food coloring. Mix well.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- 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.
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
- Assembling the Cake
- Place the first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
- Repeat with the remaining layers, finishing with frosting on the top and sides of the cake.
- Smooth the frosting with a spatula or create decorative swirls.
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pans: Grease and line with parchment to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Combine separately for even distribution.
- Incorporate Food Coloring: Adjust the amount to achieve your desired shade of purple.
- Bake and Cool: Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting.
- Frost and Decorate: Layer and cover the cake with cream cheese frosting.
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