Red Velvet Cake

• 2 1/2 cups cake flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

2. 2

   In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.

3. 3

   In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract.

4. 4

   Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined and smooth.

5. 5

   Divide the batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. 6

   Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. 7

   For the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until fluffy.

8. 8

   Frost the tops and sides of the cooled cake layers. Slice and serve.