Magnolia Bakery’s Red Velvet recipe has become a beloved classic for good reason. Known for its rich, velvety texture and vibrant red color, this cake brings a perfect balance of sweetness and subtle cocoa flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a decadent treat, this recipe delivers that iconic Magnolia Bakery taste right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
To recreate the iconic Magnolia Bakery Recipes Red Velvet cake with its signature rich texture and vibrant color, we need to gather precise ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of sweetness, cocoa, and moisture.
Dry Ingredients
We start with the foundation—the Dry Ingredients that give the cake structure and flavor depth.
- 2 ½ cups (312.5 g) all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
Next, the Wet Ingredients combine to create the cake’s tender crumb and its classic red hue.
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil (or any neutral oil), at room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk, well-shaken
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
Frosting Ingredients
No Magnolia Bakery Red Velvet experience is complete without its luscious cream cheese frosting. Here are the ingredients to make it smooth and rich:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 16 oz (450 g), softened |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (113 g), softened |
| Powdered sugar | 4 cups (480 g), sifted |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | Pinch |
Together, these ingredients create the iconic flavor and texture that make the Magnolia Bakery Recipes Red Velvet a timeless favorite.
Equipment Needed
To perfectly recreate Magnolia Bakery’s Red Velvet cake, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool ensures our baking process is smooth and the final product is flawless. Here’s what we need:
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large sizes for combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer is crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy batter and well-whipped cream cheese frosting.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking. We must measure ingredients accurately for consistent results.
- Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer: To sift flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar ensuring no lumps and even texture.
- Rubber Spatula: Essential for folding ingredients gently without deflating our batter.
- 8-Inch Round Cake Pans (preferably non-stick): Two pans are needed for layers. We should grease and line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Cooling Racks: Allow cakes to cool evenly preventing sogginess.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine wet and dry ingredients |
| Electric Mixer | Cream batter and frosting thoroughly |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measure ingredients precisely |
| Sifter | Remove lumps from dry ingredients |
| Rubber Spatula | Gently fold and scrape batter/frosting |
| 8-Inch Round Cake Pans | Bake the red velvet layers |
| Cooling Racks | Cool cake layers evenly without moisture build-up |
Using these tools helps us maintain the texture and flavor balance that make the Magnolia Bakery Red Velvet cake so special. As Magnolia Bakery fans, letting our equipment do the heavy lifting sets us up for success from start to finish.
Prep Work
Before we dive into mixing our Magnolia Bakery Recipes Red Velvet, setting up correctly is essential for a smooth baking experience. Let’s get everything ready with these simple steps.
Preheating the Oven
We start by Preheating the Oven to ensure consistent baking. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating allows the cake to bake evenly, creating the perfect rise and that signature moist crumb we love in a Red Velvet cake.
Preparing the Baking Pans
Next, properly prepare your baking pans to prevent sticking and easy removal:
- Use two 8-inch round cake pans
- Grease the pans with butter or nonstick cooking spray
- Lightly dust the pans with all-purpose flour, tapping out excess flour
- Alternatively, line the pans with parchment paper circles for extra nonstick assurance
This step protects the delicate crumb and preserves the moist texture crucial to the Magnolia Bakery Recipes Red Velvet.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurement is the foundation of our recipe’s success. Using the right tools guarantees the correct balance of flavors and texture:
| Ingredient Type | Tool Recommended | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | Measuring cups, kitchen scale | Spoon flour into cup then level with knife |
| Liquid Ingredients | Liquid measuring cup | Measure at eye level on a flat surface |
| Small Quantities | Measuring spoons | Use exact measuring spoons for powders and liquids |
We measure precisely especially for ingredients like cocoa powder, red food coloring, and buttermilk, as these impact the vibrant color and distinctive flavor of our Red Velvet cake.
With our oven preheated, pans ready, and ingredients measured with precision, we set the stage for crafting that iconic Magnolia Bakery Recipes Red Velvet experience right in our own kitchen.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to master Magnolia Bakery’s Red Velvet cake, ensuring every layer embodies the iconic flavor and texture we love.
Making the Red Velvet Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, sift together:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk until smooth:
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
- Gradually add the wet ingredient mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring with a rubber spatula until the batter is smooth and fully combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain its tender crumb.
“Tip: The red food coloring is what gives this cake its signature vibrant hue, so be sure to measure carefully.”
Baking the Cake Layers
- Divide the batter evenly between two prepared 8-inch round cake pans.
- Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
| Step | Time (minutes) | Temperature (°F/°C) |
|---|---|---|
| Bake Cake Layers | 25-30 | 350°F / 175°C |
- Insert a toothpick into the center of each cake layer; it should come out clean when the cakes are done.
- Once baked, remove pans from the oven and let them rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes before removing the cakes from pans.
Cooling the Cake
- Carefully invert the cakes onto cooling racks.
- Remove parchment paper if used.
- Allow cakes to cool completely — about 1 to 1 ½ hours.
“Important: Cooling completely is essential before frosting to prevent melting and ensure the cream cheese frosting adheres perfectly.”
By mastering these directions we craft the perfect foundation for the luscious cream cheese frosting and complete the iconic Magnolia Bakery Red Velvet experience.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
Creating the perfect cream cheese frosting is essential to complement Magnolia Bakery’s Red Velvet cake. Let’s walk through the process to achieve that smooth, creamy texture and balanced sweetness.
Mixing the Frosting Ingredients
We begin by gathering the key ingredients for the frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Steps:
- Place the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter into a large mixing bowl.
- Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing on low speed after each addition to prevent sugar clouds.
- Add the vanilla extract and increase the speed to medium-high. Beat until the frosting is light, smooth, and fluffy.
“Cream cheese must be softened to room temperature to avoid lumps and ensure a silky frosting.”
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
Balancing the frosting’s consistency is crucial for spreading and piping. Here’s how we adjust it:
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Frosting too thick | Too much powdered sugar | Add 1 tablespoon of milk or cream, mix well |
| Frosting too thin | Excess liquid or overbeating | Add 1/4 cup powdered sugar, mix gently |
| Lumpy frosting | Cold cream cheese or butter | Continue beating until smooth, ensure all dairy is room temp |
To test consistency:
- The frosting should hold soft peaks.
- When spread with a spatula, it should glide easily without tearing the cake.
- For piping, it should hold shapes firmly but be soft enough to squeeze smoothly.
By paying attention to these details, our cream cheese frosting will perfectly enhance the rich, tender crumb of Magnolia Bakery’s Red Velvet Cake.
Assembling the Red Velvet Cake
Assembling Magnolia Bakery’s Red Velvet requires careful attention to layering and frosting to achieve the cake’s signature moist texture and balanced sweetness. Proper technique here ensures each slice delivers the iconic rich flavor and stunning presentation.
Layering the Cake
We begin by placing one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Using a serrated knife, level the tops of the baked layers if needed to create a flat surface for stacking. This prevents the cake from leaning and ensures even frosting coverage.
Next, spread a generous and even layer of cream cheese frosting over the first cake layer. We recommend using about ¾ cup (180 grams) of frosting per layer to maintain the ideal balance of cake to frosting. Avoid applying the frosting too close to the edge to prevent it from spilling out when the next layer is added.
Place the second cake layer on top, gently pressing down to secure it without compressing the cake. Repeat the frosting application on top if you prefer a thicker frosting layer inside the cake.
| Step | Detail | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Level cake layers | Flat surface for stacking | As needed |
| Frosting per layer | Cream cheese frosting | About ¾ cup (180 grams) |
| Press layers gently | Secure without compression | Light pressure |
Applying the Frosting
Once the cake layers are stacked, apply a thin crumb coat of frosting all over the cake’s exterior. This layer traps loose crumbs and creates a smooth surface for the final frosting.
Chill the crumb-coated cake in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes, allowing the frosting to set. This step is crucial for achieving the polished look characteristic of Magnolia Bakery’s Red Velvet.
After chilling, generously apply the remaining cream cheese frosting. Use a flexible spatula or an offset icing knife to spread the frosting evenly. Smooth the sides by holding a bench scraper or spatula steady while rotating the cake. Apply gentle pressure for clean edges and an even finish.
Remember: The frosting should be thick enough to cover the cake completely without revealing crumbs or uneven patches.
Decorating Tips
To achieve that iconic Magnolia Bakery Red Velvet appearance, keep decorations simple yet elegant:
- Classic piping: Use a star tip to pipe rosettes or borders around the cake edge.
- Sprinkles or cake crumbs: Lightly dust the sides or top with finely crushed red velvet cake crumbs for texture contrast.
- Fresh berries: Add a few raspberries or strawberries on top for a pop of color and tartness.
- Minimalist approach: A clean smooth frosting finish often reflects the bakery’s understated elegance best.
Pro Tip: Chill the cake again after decorating for at least 30 minutes to help the frosting set before slicing. Use a sharp, warm knife for clean cuts.
By following these steps with precision and care, we capture the luscious taste and flawless look of Magnolia Bakery’s beloved Red Velvet Cake.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
To keep our Magnolia Bakery Recipes Red Velvet cake fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. After assembling and decorating, we should refrigerate the cake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped with plastic wrap. This prevents the cake from drying out and protects the cream cheese frosting from absorbing any fridge odors.
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (airtight) | Up to 5 days | Keep the cake well covered |
| Room temperature | Up to 2 days | Only if frosting and temperature allow |
| Frozen (wrapped) | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in fridge before serving |
When freezing, slice the cake into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This method keeps the texture and flavor intact for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
For the best experience with our iconic Red Velvet cake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. This reveals the cake’s moist crumb and brings out the tangy sweetness of the cream cheese frosting.
Here are some creative ways to serve the cake:
- Classic: Serve slices with a dollop of extra frosting or a dusting of cocoa powder.
- With Fresh Berries: Add raspberries or strawberries on the side for a fresh contrast.
- Whipped Cream: Pair each slice with lightly sweetened whipped cream to enhance the creaminess.
- Coffee or Milk: Both beverages complement the cake’s rich cocoa notes perfectly, making them great accompaniments.
Tips for Clean Slices
- Chill the cake for at least 20 minutes before slicing to firm the frosting.
- Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts to maintain neat layers.
- Warm the knife under hot water and dry it well for smoother cuts.
By following these Storage and Serving Suggestions, we ensure every slice of our Magnolia Bakery Recipes Red Velvet cake delights with its signature texture and flavor, just as enjoyed at the bakery.
Conclusion
Recreating Magnolia Bakery’s Red Velvet cake at home is a rewarding experience that brings a touch of bakery magic to our kitchens. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can achieve that perfect balance of rich flavor and moist texture every time.
By following the detailed steps and tips, we ensure our cake not only tastes amazing but looks stunning too. Whether for a special occasion or a simple indulgence, this recipe lets us enjoy an iconic dessert with confidence and ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Magnolia Bakery’s Red Velvet cake?
You need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, vegetable oil, buttermilk, red food coloring, cream cheese, unsalted butter, and powdered sugar for frosting.
What equipment is essential for baking this cake?
Key tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a sifter, rubber spatula, 8-inch round cake pans, and cooling racks.
How do I prepare the baking pans?
Grease the pans and dust with flour or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
What temperature should I bake the Red Velvet cake at?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cake layers for 25-30 minutes.
Why is red food coloring important in the recipe?
It creates the signature vibrant red color characteristic of Magnolia Bakery’s Red Velvet cake.
How do I make the cream cheese frosting smooth?
Use softened cream cheese and butter, beat well to avoid lumps, and adjust consistency as needed.
What is the best way to assemble the cake?
Level each layer, apply frosting between layers, crumb coat the cake, chill, then add the final frosting layer for a smooth finish.
How should I store the Red Velvet cake?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days; it can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
How do I serve the cake for the best taste?
Let the cake come to room temperature before slicing and serve with fresh berries or coffee.
Any tips for clean cake slices?
Chill the cake before cutting and use a sharp knife for neat, even slices.