Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add Buttermilk: Gradually add the buttermilk to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Food Coloring: Add the purple food coloring to the boiling water, then gradually mix it into the batter until you achieve the desired shade of purple. Mix until the batter is smooth and the color is evenly distributed.
- Add Vinegar: Stir in the white vinegar until well combined.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Beat the frosting until it is smooth and fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble and Frost the Cake
- Level the Cakes: If needed, level the tops of the cooled cakes with a knife to ensure even layers.
- Frost the First Layer: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top.
- Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the first. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the top and sides of the cake (crumb coat). Chill the cake for 15-20 minutes to set the crumb coat.
- Final Frosting: Apply the remaining frosting in a thick, even layer over the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate: Decorate the cake with sprinkles, edible glitter, or fresh berries if desired.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice and Serve: Slice the cake and serve it to your guests. Enjoy the stunning color and delicious flavor!
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Food Coloring: Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant and intense purple color.
- Cake Layers: For a taller cake, bake three 8-inch layers instead of two 9-inch layers.
- Flavor Variation: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the batter for a different flavor profile.
- Decorations: Decorate with purple-themed decorations, such as edible flowers or sugar pearls, for a more elegant presentation.
Conclusion
Purple Velvet Cake is a stunning and delicious dessert that adds a unique twist to the classic red velvet cake. With its vibrant color and rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any special occasion. Enjoy making and serving this beautiful cake to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Key Takeaway
Purple Velvet Cake offers a beautiful and delicious alternative to traditional velvet cakes. This recipe is easy to follow and results in a moist, flavorful cake with a stunning appearance. Perfect for celebrations, this cake is sure to be a memorable centerpiece at any gathering. Enjoy the process and the delightful outcome!