Pink Velvet Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Pink Velvet Cake is a charming twist on the classic red velvet, boasting a soft blush hue and a tender, buttery crumb. With its subtle cocoa flavor, velvety texture, and eye-catching color, it’s perfect for birthdays, baby showers, or any occasion that calls for something both elegant and delicious. Made entirely from scratch, this cake delivers rich flavor and a beautiful presentation without artificial mixes.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose floursugarunsalted buttereggsbuttermilkvanilla extractwhite vinegarbaking sodabaking powdercocoasaltpink food coloring

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a small bowl, mix the buttermilk with the vinegar.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.

Add a few drops of pink food coloring and mix until evenly tinted to your desired shade.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Frost with your favorite cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields one 2-layer 8-inch cake (about 12 servings).
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Cooling and frosting time: 45–60 minutes
Total time: 1.5–2 hours

Variations

Add strawberry extract for a fruity undertone.

Top with fresh berries or edible flowers for a beautiful finish.

Use gel food coloring for a more vibrant pink.

Make it a 3-layer cake for an impressive presentation—just increase the ingredients by 50%.

storage/reheating

Store Pink Velvet Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Bring to room temperature before serving, or warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

What makes pink velvet different from red velvet?
Pink velvet has a lighter pink hue and typically less cocoa powder, resulting in a milder flavor and brighter color.

Can I make this cake without food coloring?
Yes, but it will not have the signature pink color. Beet juice or natural colorants can be used as alternatives.

Why use vinegar in the recipe?
Vinegar reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise and contributes to the tender texture.

Can I use oil instead of butter?
Butter is preferred for flavor and texture, but oil can be substituted if needed—use ¾ cup of oil for every 1 cup of butter.

What frosting pairs best with Pink Velvet Cake?
Cream cheese frosting is the classic choice, but vanilla or white chocolate buttercream also works beautifully.

How do I get a consistent pink color?
Add food coloring gradually and mix well. Use gel or paste colorings for stronger results with less liquid.

Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?
Yes! This recipe makes about 24 standard cupcakes. Reduce baking time to 18–22 minutes.

Is buttermilk necessary?
Yes, buttermilk adds moisture and acidity. You can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or berries?
You can, but it may affect the texture. Fold in small amounts carefully.

Is this cake good for layered designs?
Absolutely, its structure holds up well for layered and decorated cakes.

Conclusion

Pink Velvet Cake is a stunning and delicious dessert that turns any gathering into a celebration. With its soft crumb, gentle cocoa notes, and signature blush color, it’s as fun to eat as it is to make. Whether you’re baking for love, fun, or a special event, this from-scratch cake is sure to impress.

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