If you are ready to wow your friends and family with a cake that is as stunning as it is delicious, then you have come to the right place. This Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe offers a unique twist on the classic velvet cake, highlighting a beautiful purple hue that delights both the eye and the palate. Every bite is moist, flavorful, and perfectly balanced by the luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that brings it all together in a celebration of color and taste. Whether for a special occasion or just because you want to treat yourself, this cake will quickly become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in a combination of simple, wholesome ingredients working in harmony. Each component contributes not only to the incredible flavor and moist texture but also to the vivid purple color that makes this cake so memorable. Let’s dive into what you’ll need.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a soft, tender crumb.
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with moisture retention.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to give your cake a lovely rise.
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder: Just a touch adds depth and richness without overpowering the purple shade.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add a velvety texture.
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds slight acidity that brightens flavor and contributes to a soft crumb.
- 2 tablespoons (1 oz) purple food coloring: The star of the show for that stunning purple hue.
- 1 teaspoon vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and aroma to the batter.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Essential for a rich and creamy frosting base.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The tangy backbone of the classic cream cheese frosting, making it irresistibly smooth.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds just the right hint of extra flavor to your frosting.
How to Make Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, take two 9-inch round cake pans and grease them lightly, then dust with flour. This little step ensures your beautiful cake layers come out effortlessly without sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed for a uniform cake texture and flavor. The slight hint of cocoa here will deepen the color subtly and add a delightful undertone.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, purple food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined. This magical swirl of ingredients gives your cake its moist texture and vibrant color. The vinegar will react with your baking soda to give your cake that perfect lift.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the dry ingredients gradually into the bowl with the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the batter light and tender, exactly what you want for a purple velvet cake that melts in your mouth.
Step 5: Divide Batter and Bake
Evenly pour the batter into your prepared pans, making sure each layer has equal amounts. Pop them into the oven and bake for around 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—an important check to avoid under or overbaking.
Step 6: Cool the Cake Layers
Allow your cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes so they firm up just a bit. Then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is crucial before frosting, as frosting warm cakes can cause melting and sliding.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until you achieve a creamy, smooth texture. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating well until the frosting is fluffy and perfectly spreadable. This frosting complements the purple velvet cake so beautifully with its slightly tangy richness.
Step 8: Assemble Your Cake
Place one cake layer on your serving plate, spread a generous layer of frosting on top, then carefully place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake evenly for a smooth finish. This is where your cake really starts to look incredible!
Step 9: Chill and Serve
Pop the assembled cake into the refrigerator for about an hour to let the frosting set nicely. Chilling helps the flavors settle and makes slicing cleaner. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, whichever you prefer—both are delightful.
How to Serve Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate the look and taste of your cake. Consider fresh berries like blueberries or blackberries to complement the purple hues, or sprinkle some edible glitter or purple-hued sprinkles for a whimsical touch. A few mint leaves can also add a fresh contrast.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with simple accompaniments such as a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a light, fruity iced tea. If you want something more decadent, serve with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness of the cream cheese frosting.
Creative Ways to Present
For celebrations, try serving your Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe on a decorative cake stand to give it extra presence. Slice it into perfect wedges and drizzle a berry coulis around the plates for flair. You can even create mini versions as cupcakes with the same vibrant frosting for individual servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cake tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the cream cheese frosting from drying out. Properly stored, the cake will stay moist and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it a perfect treat to enjoy slowly.
Freezing
You can freeze your Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, but it’s best to freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw layers at room temperature, then frost as usual for a freshly made taste. Frosted cakes don’t freeze as well but can be stored in the freezer for up to two weeks if completely sealed.
Reheating
This cake is delightful served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you prefer, allow refrigerated slices to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to take the chill off and enhance the flavors.
FAQs
What gives the Purple Velvet Cake its vibrant color?
The intense purple color is thanks to the purple food coloring added in the batter. It’s important to use a good-quality gel or liquid food coloring to get that rich hue without affecting the cake’s texture.
Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to one cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using, and it will mimic the acidity and texture that buttermilk provides.
Is the cocoa powder necessary?
Yes, a small amount of cocoa powder is added to deepen the flavor and slightly balance the sweetness of the cake without overpowering the purple color or taste. It also contributes to the classic velvet cake profile.
How long does the frosting stay fresh?
The cream cheese frosting tastes best within 3 to 4 days when kept refrigerated in a covered container. After that, it may begin to lose its texture and freshness.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
While the recipe calls for cream cheese and butter, you can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based butter alternatives to make it suitable for dairy-free diets. The texture and flavor might vary slightly but still delicious.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe that makes it an absolute joy to bake and even more delightful to share. Its vibrant color, moist crumb, and luscious frosting come together like a symphony of flavors and textures. Don’t hesitate to whip up this showstopper cake for your next gathering or whenever you crave something uniquely wonderful—you and anyone you share it with will be smitten from the very first bite.
