What Is Red Velvet Cake? All About This Southern Treat

More than just a luxurious fabric, red velvet is a decadent cake iconic to American pastry. Originally served as a traditional layer cake, red velvet has taken the country by storm, seen in cupcakes, pints of ice cream, whoopie pies, special-edition Oreos, and so many more treats. The traditional version is a classic combo that melds both vanilla and chocolate for a subtle, delicious flavor in a soft, just decadent enough cake that pairs so well with cream cheese frosting. Ready to try it for yourself? Here’s everything you need to know about red velvet cake to maximize your red velvet appreciation. 

What Is Red Velvet Cake?

“Red velvet cake is a deep red, light chocolate cake,” says Bobbie Lloyd, CEO and Chief Baking Officer of Magnolia Bakery,

In her cookbook, The Magnolia Bakery Handbook: A Complete Guide for the Home Baker, she explains that the history of the red velvet cake is a bit murky, but long standing. “Much has been debated about the origins of red velvet cake, widely considered a Southern tradition dating back to the late 1800s, although the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in NYC is thought to be among the first to introduce a very red cake to its menu in the late 1950s,” Lloyd writes. 

What Flavor Is Red Velvet Cake?

Red velvet tastes different than you may expect from its appearance. 

“The flavor is unique. Red velvet is a vanilla cake with a small amount of rich dark cocoa added, making for a light chocolate flavor. Apple cider vinegar is also added, which causes a chemical reaction with the cocoa, turning the cake brownish-red,” says Lloyd. “At Magnolia Bakery, we use an old-fashioned icing called ‘whipped vanilla’ to top the delicate cake.”

What Makes Red Velvet Cake Red?

Red velvet cake turns red thanks to the reaction between the acidic vinegar and the cocoa. While some may use food coloring to enhance the color of their red velvet desserts, that’s not the traditional method. 

“Like with any cake, the key to making a delicious red velvet cake lies in the details,” says Lloyd. “Be sure to follow the recipe carefully to ensure that key chemical reaction happens at the right time and in the right way, and don’t over mix your batter and you will successfully create that light, delicate texture.”

Red Velvet Cake Recipes

Now that you know all about red velvet cake, go ahead and have some fun in the kitchen with these delicious red velvet recipes.

Red Velvet Brownie Torte

This decadent, brownie-like treat brings out all the goodness of red velvet and makes it even richer. Homemade frosting unites the chocolatey layers, and red sprinkles can help highlight the bold color.

Red Velvet Doberge Cake With Cheesecake Custard

Say hello to the most gorgeous red velvet cake. This updated take on a beloved family recipe uses thin layers, plus a homemade cheesecake custard, to treat a tall cake, finished with white chocolate frosting. It’s a project worthy of a special occasion.

Red Velvet Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting 

For a smaller version of red velvet cake that’s easier to share, make some cupcakes. Unfrosted cupcakes can also be frozen and enjoyed at a later date.

Red Velvet Cake

For a classic red velvet cake, follow this recipe, which uses buttermilk for acid. Thick layers stick together with homemade cream cheese frosting.