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Delicious slice of Yellow Velvet Cake topped with creamy frosting and berries.
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Yellow Velvet Cake

A delightful cake with a warm buttery aroma and a smooth texture, topped with creamy cream cheese frosting.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert Recipe, Party Cake, Velvet Cake, Yellow Velvet Cake
Servings: 10 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the cake

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour The base of your cake, offering a delicate structure.
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness and warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Leavening agent for rise.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Adds moisture and richness.
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Keeps the cake soft and moist.
  • 3 large eggs Provide structure and richness.
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Aromatic flavor enhancement.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Adds a bright citrusy lift.
  • to taste yellow food coloring Enhances the cake’s vibrant color.

For the frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Forms the creamy base of the frosting.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Enhances creaminess.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Infuses frosting with warmth.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and yellow food coloring until smooth.
  • Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until combined.

Baking

  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting

  • While the cakes cool, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and fluffy.

Assembly

  • Once the cakes are completely cool, frost the top of one cake layer generously.
  • Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the creamy frosting.
  • Decorate with colorful sprinkles or additional lemon zest if desired.

Notes

For a lighter cake, substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour and use unsweetened applesauce instead of some oil.