This Red Velvet White Chocolate Cake combines the classic charm of red velvet with the luxurious sweetness of white chocolate. Perfect for celebrations, this moist cake topped with a creamy white chocolate buttercream is sure to impress!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
For the White Chocolate Buttercream:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (melted)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans, ensuring the sides and bottoms are well-coated.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add Coloring and Cocoa: Stir in the red food coloring and cocoa powder until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternate Adding Milk and Flour: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in White Chocolate: Melt the white chocolate chips and fold them into the batter gently to ensure even distribution.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Buttercream Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the melted white chocolate and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Place one layer of cake on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Repeat with the second and third layers, frosting the sides and top of the cake evenly.
- Optional: Decorate with additional white chocolate shavings or red velvet crumbs.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 540 kcal
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 250mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Sugar: 45g
- Protein: 6g
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add crushed pecans or walnuts to the cake batter.
- Cheesecake Layer: Create a hybrid cake by adding a baked cheesecake layer.
- Espresso Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to enhance the chocolate flavor.
Baking Tips for Success
- High-Quality Ingredients: Use premium red food coloring and white chocolate for the best flavor and appearance.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for smooth blending.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture.
- Chill Before Frosting: Chill the cake layers for 20-30 minutes before frosting to prevent crumbs from mixing into the frosting.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Frost just before serving.
2. Can I use cream cheese frosting instead?
Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting complements the flavors of red velvet beautifully.
3. How do I melt white chocolate without burning it?
Melt white chocolate in 20-second intervals in the microwave, stirring after each interval. Alternatively, use a double boiler.
4. Can I substitute buttermilk for whole milk?
Yes, buttermilk adds a subtle tanginess that enhances the red velvet flavor.
Conclusion
This Red Velvet White Chocolate Cake is a show-stopping dessert that balances the tangy richness of red velvet with the creamy sweetness of white chocolate. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or any special occasion, this cake is sure to impress and delight your guests.
Enjoy baking and savoring every luscious bite!