Red Velvet Christmas Cake

The holiday season is all about joy, warmth, and, of course, delicious desserts. One standout treat that tops the list is the Red Velvet Christmas Cake. Imagine a stunning cake that not only looks festive with its vibrant red hue but also tastes absolutely divine! This cake is everything you can ask for: a creamy cheesecake layer nestled between layers of moist red velvet, topped off with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply craving something sweet, this cake will surely impress. Plus, making it is easier than you might think! So grab your apron, and let’s whip up a batch of holiday cheer with this delightful recipe.

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Why This Recipe Works

The combination of rich flavors, velvety texture, and visually striking color makes this Red Velvet Christmas Cake a standout dessert for the holiday season. The cheesecake layer adds an unexpected twist that enhances moisture and complexity, while the cream cheese frosting provides a rich, tangy contrast. Two delicious layers come together to create an unforgettable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Christmas Cake

This delightful Red Velvet Christmas Cake isn’t just delicious; it’s a tradition in itself. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners, its vibrant red hue along with its creamy layers will brighten any holiday table. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make! You’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe every year, crafting it into your family’s seasonal celebrations.

Ingredients

• For the Cheesecake Layer:
• 12 oz Cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/4 cup White granulated sugar
• 1 TBSP All-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract

• 1 Large egg, room temperature

• For the Red Velvet Cake:

• 3 cups All-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch process recommended)
• 2 tsp Baking powder
• 1 tsp Baking soda
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 cup Canola or vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups White granulated sugar
• 1 tsp White vinegar
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 3 Large eggs, room temperature
• 3/4 cup Sour cream or Greek yogurt, room temperature
• 1 cup Buttermilk, room temperature

• 1 tsp Red gel food coloring

• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 4 oz Cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 cup Unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3 cups Powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract

Preparing the Cheesecake Layer

First, you want to focus on the cheesecake layer. Begin by using a hand mixer to beat the cream cheese and white sugar on high speed for about a minute. It should be smooth and creamy. Next, blend in the flour and vanilla extract on medium speed until fully combined. The last step is to incorporate that egg. Mix on low speed just until blended. This rich mixture is sure to add a delightful surprise to your cake, so set it aside for now.

Making the Red Velvet Cake

Now, let’s bring the red velvet cake to life! Start by preheating your oven to 350℉. Take a 9×9 inch baking pan, grease it up, and then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later. Don’t forget to grease the parchment too!

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing those dry ingredients well sets the stage for your cake.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil, granulated sugar, vinegar, vanilla, sour cream, eggs, buttermilk, and red food coloring until nicely combined. At this point, it’ll look festive! Gently fold in the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula, being careful not to overmix.

Spread half of the red velvet batter evenly in the prepared pan. Use a spoon to dollop the cheesecake mixture across the batter, and then carefully spread it evenly. Top this off with the remaining red velvet batter and smooth it out to finish. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Crafting the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cake cools, let’s make that irresistible cream cheese frosting. Start by sifting the powdered sugar and setting it aside. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter on high speed for about 2 minutes until it’s creamy. Then, mix in the cream cheese on high for another minute, scraping down the sides as necessary.

Slowly add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on medium speed until completely blended. Once it’s combined, add in the vanilla extract and beat on high speed again. The result should be a smooth and creamy frosting just begging to adorn your cake.

Decorating Your Cake

Once your cake has cooled completely—just take a moment to admire its beauty—spread that generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. To get festive, sprinkle on some Christmas sprinkles or edible decorations to create a beautiful presentation that will wow your guests.

Serving Suggestions

This Red Velvet Christmas Cake pairs perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa for cozy moments or a tall glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. For an indulgent treat, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.

Tips for Success

• Always use room temperature ingredients for both the cheesecake and cake. This helps with better blending and a smoother texture.
• Preheating your oven before baking is crucial to achieving even results, so don’t skip this step.
• Want to enhance the holiday flavor? Customize the frosting with extracts like almond or peppermint.

Variations

Get creative! You can add chopped walnuts or pecans into the red velvet mixture for some added crunch. If you want a slightly tangy flavor profile, swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt. Or, decorate the cake with colored frosting for a vibrant pop or use fondant for that polished finish.

Storage Tips

Leftover cake? No problem! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to save some for later, slice and freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to two months.

FAQs

1. Can I use other food colorings instead of red gel food coloring?
Yes, you can! But gel food coloring gives a richer color, while liquid food coloring can alter the texture of the cake.

2. Can this recipe be doubled for a larger cake?
Definitely! Just grab a larger baking pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.

3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s made for baking.

4. Can I prepare this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it just before serving.

5. What should I do if my cream cheese frosting is too runny?
Add more powdered sugar gradually until it reaches your desired thickness.

With its rich flavor and stunning appearance, this Red Velvet Christmas Cake is bound to make your holiday celebrations truly memorable! Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with family and friends.

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