Follow these steps for perfect results
Nonstick spray
for coating
All-purpose flour
Cake flour
Natural cocoa
Baking soda
Kosher salt
Low-fat buttermilk
room temperature
Red liquid food coloring
White vinegar
Vanilla extract
Dark brown sugar
Unsalted butter
room temperature
Eggs
room temperature
Powdered sugar
Cream cheese
room temperature
Unsalted butter
room temperature
Vanilla extract
Kosher salt
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and prepare two 9-inch round cake pans with nonstick spray and parchment paper.
Whisk together all-purpose flour, cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract.
In a stand mixer, cream together brown sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl between additions.
Mix until smooth.
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool in pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
For the frosting, combine cream cheese and butter in a mixer until smooth.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
Add vanilla extract and salt.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth.
Refrigerate frosting for 5-10 minutes before using.
Frost the cooled cake and serve.
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.
Everything you need to know before you start
20 minutes
Cake layers can be baked and frozen ahead of time.
Dust with powdered sugar or cocoa powder.
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Garnish with fresh berries.
Sweet and bubbly
Discover the story behind this recipe
Celebratory dessert
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