Description
Soft, moist red velvet snack cake baked in one 8×8-inch pan with fluffy cream cheese frosting. Perfect small-batch dessert for Valentine’s Day or any occasion.
Ingredients
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
3 tbsp cocoa powder
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2/3 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 tbsp red food coloring
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp white vinegar
6 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened 1
1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy removal later. Set aside while you mix the batter.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until evenly mixed. This ensures the leaveners and cocoa are distributed throughout.
In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar. The mixture should be smooth and vibrant red.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently just until combined. Don’t overmix—a few small lumps are fine. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake cools, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
Measure flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling off to avoid dense cake.
Bring eggs and buttermilk to room temperature for better mixing and tender texture.
Use gel food coloring for more vibrant red color with less added liquid. Let the cake cool completely before frosting or the frosting will melt.
Store the cake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to five days. This recipe works well in a 9×9-inch pan with adjusted bake time (20-25 minutes).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American