Red Velvet Bar Cake Recipe For Easy Delicious Treats

Red velvet cake is a timeless classic that offers a rich, velvety texture paired with a subtle chocolate flavor and a beautiful deep red hue. But if you’re looking for a simpler, more convenient way to enjoy this beloved dessert, a red velvet bar cake is the perfect solution.

This recipe transforms the traditional layered cake into a luscious, easy-to-make bar that is perfect for potlucks, celebrations, or just a cozy treat at home.

Whether you’re a baking beginner or a seasoned pro, these bars deliver the same moist, tender crumb and tangy cream cheese frosting that make red velvet so irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to slice and serve, making them ideal for sharing with friends and family.

In this post, you’ll find everything you need to bake your own mouthwatering red velvet bar cake, including tips for perfect texture, ingredient substitutions, and creative serving ideas. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This red velvet bar cake recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, the bars are incredibly moist and tender, with a subtle cocoa flavor balanced by the signature tang of cream cheese frosting.

The simplicity of making bars instead of layers saves time and effort without sacrificing any of the classic red velvet charm.

Additionally, this recipe uses common pantry ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The bars store well and are perfect for making ahead of time, so you can enjoy delicious homemade dessert anytime.

Finally, the vibrant red color and creamy frosting make these bars visually stunning and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons red food coloring
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (at least two)
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack for cooling
• Sifter for powdered sugar (optional but recommended)
• Toothpick or cake tester

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt. Whisk in the granulated sugar to evenly distribute.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and white vinegar until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the batter light and airy.
5. Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
7. Cool completely: Remove the pan from the oven and set on a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
8. Prepare the frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Once combined, add vanilla extract and beat until fluffy.
9. Frost the bars: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the cooled cake using an offset spatula or butter knife.
10. Slice and serve: Use a sharp knife to cut into bars or squares. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a warm damp cloth between slices.

Tips & Variations

“For the best red velvet color, make sure to use good quality red food coloring or try natural alternatives like beet juice for a healthier twist.”

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs, buttermilk, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smooth mixing and better texture.
• Substitute buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup milk with 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Chocolate twist: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips into the batter for extra chocolate bursts.
• Frosting alternatives: Try a whipped mascarpone frosting or vegan cream cheese frosting for dietary preferences.
• Make it vegan: For a vegan version, check out these Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals and substitute ingredients accordingly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These red velvet bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving experience with a few simple ideas. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce also complement the rich flavors beautifully.

If you’re hosting a party, arrange the bars on a decorative platter garnished with edible flowers or mint leaves for a festive touch. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon treat.

For more delicious dessert ideas to pair with your baking, check out our Chocolate Banana Smoothie Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious or explore creative salads like our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas to balance your meal.

Conclusion

Making a red velvet bar cake is a wonderful way to enjoy the classic flavors of red velvet without the fuss of layers and rounds. This recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and yields a moist, flavorful dessert that’s sure to impress.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, these bars deliver satisfaction in every bite.

With a luscious cream cheese frosting complementing the tender crumb, each slice offers a perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and color. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility allows you to tweak it to your taste or dietary needs.

Give this red velvet bar cake a try, and don’t forget to explore our other tasty recipes like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for savory inspiration. Happy baking!

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