Royal Purple Velvet Cake with Creamy Vanilla Frosting
Bake a stunning Royal Purple Velvet Cake with creamy vanilla frosting — a soft, moist, and beautifully colored dessert that’s perfect for celebrations and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Royal Purple Velvet Cake
- 3 cups fine flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1⅓ cups buttermilk at room temperature
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 large eggs room temperature
- 2 heaping tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- A dash of purple liquid food coloring adjust to desired shade
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened
- 8 ounces unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and lightly dust with flour. Set aside.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and cocoa powder until evenly blended.
Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the creamed butter, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
Add Food Coloring:
- Stir in the purple food coloring until the batter reaches your desired hue.
Incorporate Baking Soda and Vinegar:
- In a small bowl, combine baking soda and vinegar (it will fizz). Gently fold this mixture into the batter for an airy texture.
Divide and Bake:
- Evenly distribute the batter between the two prepared pans. Smooth the tops and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool:
- Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Frosting:
- Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting over the top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
Decorate:
- Garnish with edible flowers, purple sugar sprinkles, or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a royal finish.
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are all at room temperature for a smooth batter.
Color Control: For a richer hue, use gel food coloring rather than liquid.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to maintain the cake’s soft texture.
Even Baking: Rotate pans halfway through for uniform color and rise.