Valentine's Day Red Velvet Cake

Romantic Valentine’s Day Cake Recipe

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Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cake – A luxurious, moist red velvet cake with creamy vanilla frosting, topped with chocolate ganache, fresh berries, and edible gold leaf. Perfect for celebrating love!

Ingredients | Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cake

For the Red Velvet Cake:

  • 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) vegetable oil
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp red food coloring (gel-based for vibrant color)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp white vinegar

For the Creamy Vanilla Frosting:

  • 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Ganache:

  • 1 cup (180g) dark or semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream

For Decoration:

  • Fresh raspberries
  • Edible rose petals (food-safe)
  • Edible gold leaf
  • Heart-shaped macarons (store-bought or homemade)
  • Edible glitter (optional)

Instructions | Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cake

1. Bake the Red Velvet Cake:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 6-inch round cake pans (or two 8-inch pans) with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Make the Vanilla Frosting:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
  3. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.

3. Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:

  1. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
  2. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth. Let it cool slightly until it thickens but is still pourable.

4. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of vanilla frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining layers.
  2. Frost the entire cake with a thin layer of vanilla frosting (crumb coat). Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.
  3. Apply a final layer of frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula for a clean finish.

5. Decorate:

  1. Pour the slightly cooled chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
  2. Arrange fresh raspberries, rose petals, and heart-shaped macarons on top.
  3. Gently place edible gold leaf on the cake for a luxurious touch.
  4. Sprinkle with edible glitter for a magical sparkle (optional).

Serving Suggestions | Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cake

  • Slice and serve with a glass of champagne or a cup of coffee for the ultimate romantic treat.
  • Pair with fresh strawberries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

 

FAQ: Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cake

1. What does a red velvet cake symbolize?
Red velvet cake is often associated with love, romance, and celebration, making it a popular choice for Valentine’s Day. Its rich red color symbolizes passion and affection, while its velvety texture and subtle cocoa flavor evoke a sense of indulgence and warmth. It’s the perfect dessert to share with someone special on this romantic holiday.

2. What day is National Red Velvet Cake Day?
National Red Velvet Cake Day is celebrated on February 1st, just in time to kick off the Valentine’s Day season. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy this iconic dessert and maybe even bake one for your loved ones as a sweet prelude to Valentine’s Day.

3. What is a DQ Cupid Cake?
A DQ Cupid Cake is a special Valentine’s Day-themed ice cream cake offered by Dairy Queen. While it’s not a red velvet cake, it often features romantic designs like hearts and Cupid motifs, making it a festive treat for the holiday. If you’re a fan of red velvet, you can always pair it with a slice of red velvet cake for the ultimate Valentine’s dessert combo!

4. What is the actual flavor of red velvet cake?
Red velvet cake has a unique flavor that combines a mild cocoa taste with a tangy buttermilk undertone, complemented by a hint of vanilla. The signature red color traditionally comes from a reaction between cocoa powder and acidic ingredients like vinegar and buttermilk, though modern recipes often use red food coloring for a more vibrant hue. The cake is typically paired with a creamy cream cheese frosting, which enhances its rich and slightly tangy flavor profile.

Enjoy your Valentine’s Day with a slice of delicious red velvet cake – the perfect way to celebrate love and sweetness! ❤️

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