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Red Velvet Loaf Cake

An enchanting Red Velvet Loaf Cake with a rich hue and creamy frosting, perfect for celebrations and personal treats.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Fine and airy, providing the perfect base for this moist loaf.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Rich and aromatic, adding depth to the cake’s flavor.
  • 1 tsp baking powder Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda Aids in the cake’s gentle rise, contributing to its airy consistency.
  • 1/4 tsp salt Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Creamy and delicious, lending moisture and richness to the batter.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness, helping to create that delightful contrast with the cocoa.
  • 2 large eggs Binding ingredients together while adding moisture and richness.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Imbuing the cake with warm, inviting notes.
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring The star ingredient that gives this loaf its signature appearance.
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk Contributes tanginess, ensuring a tender, moist crumb.
  • 1 tsp white vinegar Enhances the flavor while reacting with the baking soda for extra leavening.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Silky and smooth, providing an indulgent layer of frosting.
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Adds richness, helping the frosting attain a perfect spreadable consistency.
  • 2-3 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting to your desired taste and consistency.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract A fragrant touch that complements the cream cheese beautifully.
  • a pinch salt Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease your 9x5-inch loaf pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time and mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, red food coloring, buttermilk, and vinegar until smooth.
Baking
  1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
  2. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. Beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar to your desired sweetness.
  2. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  3. Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.

Notes

Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy blending. Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer taste. Don't overmix the batter once flour is added to avoid a dense texture.