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Delicious Classic Red Velvet Loaf baked and displayed on a plate
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Red Velvet Loaf Cake

A decadent and visually stunning loaf cake featuring a moist interior and sweet cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword Baking, Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert Recipe, Loaf Cake, Red Velvet Cake
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 300kcal

Ingredients

For the cake

  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour contributing to the cake's tender texture
  • 0.5 cups unsweetened cocoa powder adding depth and a hint of chocolate flavor
  • 1 tsp baking powder for that perfect rise
  • 0.5 tsp baking soda to enhance the leavening action
  • 0.25 tsp salt to balance the sweetness
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened lending a rich creaminess to the batter
  • 1 cups granulated sugar creating a delightful sweetness
  • 2 large eggs providing structure and moisture
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract adding depth of flavor
  • 1 tbsp red food coloring to achieve that iconic red tint
  • 0.5 cups buttermilk for a tender crumb
  • 1 tsp white vinegar which reacts with the baking soda for fluffiness

For the frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened perfect for a smooth frosting
  • 0.25 cups unsalted butter, softened enhancing the creaminess
  • 2-3 cups powdered sugar making it wonderfully sweet
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract for an aromatic finish
  • a pinch salt rounding out sweet flavors

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x5-inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring it.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring.
  • Stir in the buttermilk and vinegar until smooth.
  • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Baking

  • Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting

  • For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until the mixture is smooth.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar, then stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  • Once the loaf cake is cool, frost the top evenly, creating decorative peaks if desired.

Notes

Sift the dry ingredients for a lighter cake and ensure the baking powder is fresh for optimal results.