Blue velvet cake is a colorful twist on the classic red velvet cake. It has a soft and moist texture with a slight tangy flavor. The blue color makes it unique and perfect for special occasions. This cake is usually made with buttermilk, cocoa powder, and a hint of vinegar, just like red velvet cake.
Below is a detailed guide on how to make a delicious blue velvet cake from scratch.
Ingredients for Blue Velvet Cake
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons (15g) unsweetened cocoa powder
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon royal blue gel food coloring
- ¼ teaspoon violet gel food coloring (to enhance the blue shade)
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Blue Velvet Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. You can also line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. Whisk them to combine evenly.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Eggs One by One
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps the cake batter become smooth and airy.
Step 5: Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in the buttermilk, vegetable oil, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is fully combined.
Step 6: Add the Food Coloring
Add the royal blue and violet gel food colorings to the batter. Mix until the color is evenly distributed. The violet gel food coloring helps create a rich blue shade instead of a greenish-blue.
Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
Step 8: Pour the Batter into the Pans
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the cake pans in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cakes are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool the Cakes
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Beat on low speed until fully combined.
Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract
Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Assembling the Blue Velvet Cake
Step 1: Trim the Cake Layers (Optional)
If your cakes have domed tops, you can trim them with a serrated knife to create even layers.
Step 2: Spread the Frosting
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
Step 3: Stack the Cakes
Place the second cake layer on top of the frosted layer. Press gently to secure it in place.
Step 4: Frost the Entire Cake
Use a spatula to spread a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake. This is called the crumb coat. Refrigerate the cake for 15 minutes to set the crumb coat.
After chilling, apply a final thick layer of frosting, smoothing it with a spatula.
Step 5: Decorate the Cake
You can decorate the cake with blue sprinkles, edible glitter, or piped frosting designs.
Tips for the Best Blue Velvet Cake
Use Gel Food Coloring
Liquid food coloring may not give a vibrant blue color. Use gel food coloring for the best results.
Do Not Overmix the Batter
Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Use Buttermilk for Moisture
Buttermilk keeps the cake soft and moist. If you do not have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
Chill the Cake Before Slicing
Refrigerating the cake for 30 minutes before slicing helps create clean and neat slices.
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the cake chilled or at room temperature.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee, milk, or tea.
How to Store Blue Velvet Cake
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- If you want to keep the cake longer, freeze it. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Blue velvet cake is a fun and unique dessert with a rich flavor and soft texture. It is perfect for birthdays, parties, or special occasions. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can make this cake at home.
Try this recipe and enjoy a delicious homemade blue velvet cake!
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