Description
This vibrant purple velvet cake is a whimsical twist on a classic red velvet favorite. With a rich cocoa undertone, soft and fluffy crumb, and silky vanilla cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect showstopper for celebrations, birthdays, or any time you want a regal dessert centerpiece.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
3 cups fine flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1⅓ cups buttermilk, room temperature
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 heaping tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Purple liquid food coloring, a dash (adjust to desired hue)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon white vinegar
For the Creamy Vanilla Frosting:
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
8 ounces unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder.
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
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Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix gently until combined.
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Add the purple food coloring and stir until the color is evenly distributed. Adjust coloring for desired vibrancy.
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In a small bowl, mix the vinegar and baking soda—it will fizz. Quickly fold this mixture into the batter for extra lift.
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Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Frosting:
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Beat the cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
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Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Once cakes are cool, layer them with frosting between the layers and cover the top and sides. Smooth or swirl as desired.
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Garnish with purple sugar sprinkles, edible flowers, or a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Notes
Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant purple without thinning the batter.
Make ahead: Cakes can be baked a day in advance and wrapped tightly before frosting.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American