Description

A stunning three-layer masterpiece featuring a remarkably tender crumb and a rich, crimson hue. This elegant cake is paired with a cloud-like cream cheese frosting, making it the perfect centerpiece for celebrations and sophisticated dessert tables.

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 ¼ teaspoons baking soda
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups vegetable oil
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon red gel food coloring
2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
7 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
1 pinch salt (for frosting)

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare three 7-inch round cake pans by coating with nonstick spray and lining with parchment paper circles.
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
In a separate vessel, whisk together the vegetable oil, room-temperature eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, white vinegar, and red gel food coloring until glossy.
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl and whisk gently until the batter is smooth and no streaks of flour remain.
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans and bake for 30 minutes until the tops spring back and a skewer comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to rest in their pans for 15 to 20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely to room temperature.
In a stand mixer, whip the room-temperature butter and cream cheese on medium-high speed for 2 minutes, then gradually beat in the powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt until light and fluffy.
Level the cake layers with a serrated knife, stack with frosting between each layer, apply a thin crumb coat to the exterior, chill for 20 minutes, and then apply the final smooth layer of frosting.

Notes

For the most consistent results, weigh your batter using a kitchen scale to ensure each layer is exactly the same size. If your frosting feels too soft to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to firm up the butter before finishing your final coat. Always ensure the cake layers are completely cold before assembling to prevent the frosting from melting.

Prep Time: 40 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American