Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/18 checked
12
servings
1 unit

Nonstick spray

for coating

5.5 ounce

All-purpose flour

4 ounce

Cake flour

0.5 ounce

Natural cocoa

1 tsp

Baking soda

0.5 tsp

Kosher salt

1 cup

Low-fat buttermilk

room temperature

1 fluid ounce

Red liquid food coloring

1 tbsp

White vinegar

1 tsp

Vanilla extract

10.5 ounce

Dark brown sugar

4 ounce

Unsalted butter

room temperature

2 unit

Eggs

room temperature

13.5 ounce

Powdered sugar

12 ounce

Cream cheese

room temperature

3 ounce

Unsalted butter

room temperature

1.5 tsp

Vanilla extract

1 pinch

Kosher salt

Step 1
~5 min

Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans with nonstick spray and parchment paper.

Step 2
~5 min

Whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.

Step 3
~5 min

In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract.

Step 4
~5 min

In a stand mixer, cream together brown sugar and butter until light and fluffy.

Step 5
~5 min

Scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 6
~5 min

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 7
~5 min

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

Step 8
~5 min

Scrape down the sides of the bowl between additions.

Step 9
~5 min

Mix until smooth.

Step 10
~5 min

Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.

Step 11
~5 min

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 12
~5 min

Cool in pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 13
~5 min

For the frosting, combine cream cheese and butter in a mixer until smooth.

Key Technique: Frosting
Step 14
~5 min

Scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 15
~5 min

Add vanilla extract and salt.

Step 16
~5 min

Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.

Step 17
~5 min

Refrigerate frosting for 5-10 minutes before using.

Key Technique: Frosting
Step 18
~5 min

Frost the cooled cake and serve.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Use high-quality food coloring for a vibrant red color.

Do not overbake the cake to prevent it from drying out.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

20 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

Cake layers can be baked and frozen ahead of time.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Medium
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Garnish with fresh berries.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Coffee
Tea

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

Southern United States

Cultural Significance

Celebratory dessert

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Birthdays
Holidays

Occasion Tags

Birthday
Holiday
Party

Popularity Score

75/100