Go Back

Red Velvet Wreath Cake

A stunning dessert perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring vibrant red velvet flavor and a luscious cream cheese frosting.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Baking, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour For a tender texture.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar To add sweetness and moisture.
  • 1 tsp baking soda Helps to achieve a light, fluffy cake.
  • 1 tsp cocoa powder Just a hint for that classic red velvet flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp salt Balances the sweetness.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Infuses warmth and flavor.
  • 1.5 cups buttermilk Ensures the cake is rich and moist.
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil Adds richness without heaviness.
  • 2 large eggs For structure and moisture.
  • 2 tbsp red food coloring The star ingredient for that vibrant hue.
  • 1 tsp white vinegar Reacts with baking soda for a fluffy texture.
For the Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened To make the perfect frosting.
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened Adds creaminess to the frosting.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar For the sweetness of the frosting.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the frosting’s flavor.
  • 1-2 tbsp heavy cream As needed for consistency.
For Decoration
  • to taste green sprinkles or green-colored sugar For decoration.
  • to taste red sprinkles or sugar crystals To add festive flair.
  • optional holiday-themed decorations Like edible glitter or mini candy canes.

Method
 

Baking the Cake
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan (preferably a bundt pan or wreath-shaped pan) with flour. Set it aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined and airy.
  3. Add the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until the batter is smooth; a few lumps are okay.
  4. Pour the beautifully vibrant batter into the prepared pan. Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Frosting
  1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
  2. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. If the frosting is too thick, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream to reach the desired consistency.
Decorating the Cake
  1. Once the cake is completely cool, generously spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.
  2. For decoration, sprinkle green-colored sugar or sprinkles around the edges to resemble a beautiful wreath. Finish off by adding red sprinkles or sugar crystals for a burst of color.
  3. Optionally, for a whimsical touch, decorate with holiday-themed decorations like edible glitter or mini candy canes.

Notes

To make your Red Velvet Wreath Cake extra special, always measure your flour accurately, allow ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing, and consider adding a layer of raspberry jam between the cake and frosting for a fruity surprise.