Few desserts carry the elegance and mystique of the Waldorf Astoria Red Cake. Originating from the iconic Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, this vibrant red velvet cake has enchanted taste buds for decades. It’s more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of history, blending luxury with a touch of nostalgia.
We love how this cake strikes the perfect balance between its tender, velvety crumb and the tangy richness of the cream cheese frosting. Its deep red hue isn’t just eye-catching; it’s a symbol of indulgence and celebration. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving something extraordinary, this recipe brings timeless sophistication to your table.
Waldorf Astoria Red Cake Recipe
This luxurious and historic dessert, known for its vibrant color and decadence, is a treat we savor. Follow these detailed instructions to recreate the Waldorf Astoria Red Cake in your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparing the Cake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until evenly combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Add the vegetable oil, buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Stir well to combine.
- Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix gently using a spatula or whisk until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
Baking the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to level the tops.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door too frequently to ensure even baking.
- Remove the pans from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes in the pans. Carefully transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
Assembling the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of frosting over the top using an offset spatula.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Smooth the surface for a polished appearance or create decorative swirls for a rustic finish.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set.
Tips for Success
| Step | Tips |
|---|---|
| Mixing Batter | Avoid overmixing for a tender crumb. |
| Color Intensity | Adjust the amount of red food coloring for desired vibrancy. |
| Layer Precision | Use a serrated knife to level cake layers if uneven. |
This Waldorf Astoria Red Cake Recipe delivers a visually stunning and indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion. The balance of moist cake layers and creamy frosting creates a timeless classic.
Ingredients
This Waldorf Astoria Red Cake recipe requires a balance of traditional and indulgent ingredients to achieve that perfect, velvety texture and striking red hue. Let’s gather everything we need to craft both the cake and its luscious cream cheese frosting.
For The Cake
- 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of fine salt
- 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder
- 1 cup of buttermilk, at room temperature
- 1 ½ cups of vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 tablespoons of red food coloring (liquid)
- 1 teaspoon of white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
For The Frosting
- 16 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups of powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
Equipment You Will Need
To recreate the iconic Waldorf Astoria Red Cake at home, having the right equipment ensures precision and ease during the baking process. Here’s a list of the essential tools we need:
- Large mixing bowls: For combining the dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Whisk: To evenly mix the dry ingredients and avoid clumps.
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: Essential for creaming the butter and sugar to achieve a light, fluffy texture.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping the sides of the bowls to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise measurements of dry and liquid ingredients.
- Sifter: To aerate flour and cocoa powder, resulting in a smooth, lump-free batter.
- 9-inch round cake pans (2-3): For baking uniform layers of the cake.
- Parchment paper: Line the cake pans to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Cooling rack: To cool the cakes evenly before frosting.
- Offset spatula: Ideal for spreading the cream cheese frosting smoothly and evenly across the layers and sides.
- Cake turntable (optional but helpful): Makes decorating the cake easier and more professional.
Overview of Key Equipment
Below is a table summarizing the primary tools and their purpose:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large mixing bowls | For combining wet and dry ingredients separately. |
| Whisk | Eliminates clumps, ensuring uniform dry mixes. |
| Stand mixer/hand mixer | To cream ingredients and make a fluffy batter. |
| Rubber spatula | Scrapes bowls for full ingredient incorporation. |
| Measuring tools | Ensures precise ingredient quantities. |
| Sifter | Aerates flour and cocoa powder for smooth batter. |
| 9-inch cake pans | For baking consistent layers. |
| Parchment paper | Prevents sticking and aids in clean removal. |
| Cooling rack | Allows even cooling after baking. |
| Offset spatula | Achieves a smooth, finished frosting application. |
| Cake turntable | Simplifies and refines the frosting process. |
Using these tools, we can ensure that the Waldorf Astoria Red Cake turns out perfectly—rich, delicate, and beautifully presented every time.
Directions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the iconic Waldorf Astoria Red Cake. Ensure precision in each stage to achieve the perfect texture, flavor, and look for this nostalgic dessert.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Position the oven rack in the center for even baking.
- Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or oil. Dust them lightly with flour and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
- Sift together the dry ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp of baking soda
- 1 tsp of salt
- 2 tbsp of cocoa powder
- Set all ingredients out at room temperature 15-20 minutes before baking, especially the eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese for the frosting.
Making The Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk to combine 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of vegetable oil until smooth.
- Add two large eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
- Mix in 1 tsp of vanilla extract and 1 cup of buttermilk. Stir these until incorporated.
- In a separate small bowl, mix 2 tbsp of red food coloring and 1 tsp of white vinegar. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture until evenly colored.
- Slowly incorporate the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture in 3 batches. Stir just until combined; avoid overmixing to maintain the cake’s light texture.
Baking The Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. You can use a kitchen scale to ensure each pan gets the same weight of batter.
- Smooth the surface of the batter with a rubber spatula for even rising.
- Bake the cakes for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake layers to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before flipping them onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
| Bake Setting | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Preheat | 350°F | – |
| Baking the Cake | 350°F | 30-35 minutes |
Preparing The Frosting
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat 16 oz of cream cheese and ½ cup of unsalted butter together at medium speed until creamy and lump-free.
- Slowly add 4 cups of powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add 1 tsp of vanilla extract and beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
Pro Tip: Chill the frosting in the fridge for 10 minutes before assembling for easier spreading.
Assembling The Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board. Spread an even layer of the frosting over the top using an offset spatula.
- Gently place the second layer on top. Spread frosting over the top and sides of the cake, smoothing as desired.
- Optional: Decorate with cake crumbs, fresh berries, or edible flowers for visual appeal.
- Let the cake chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours for easier slicing and to allow the frosting to set.
Tips For Success
Creating the perfect Waldorf Astoria Red Cake requires precision and attention to detail. To ensure your cake turns out rich, vibrant, and delicious, follow these expert tips:
Measurement Matters
- Always use level measurements for your ingredients. For example, use a knife to level off flour in your measuring cup for accurate results.
- Opt for weighing ingredients with a kitchen scale as it provides more precision, especially for flour and sugar.
Choose Quality Ingredients
- Use high-quality cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate undertones of the cake. Avoid using sweetened or Dutch-processed cocoa unless the recipe specifically calls for it.
- For best results, select a gel-based red food coloring rather than liquid, as it delivers a deep, vibrant red without thinning the batter.
Proper Mixing Techniques
- Avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a dense cake. Once the ingredients are just combined, stop mixing.
- Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Baking Perfection
- Preheat your oven for at least 20 minutes to achieve an even temperature.
- Rotate the cake pans halfway through baking for even cooking.
- Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, the cake is done.
Cooling Process
- Let the layers cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then turn them onto a cooling rack to cool completely. This prevents the layers from becoming soggy.
Frosting Tips
- Soften the cream cheese and butter to room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth and creamy frosting.
- Chill the frosting for 15-20 minutes if it becomes too soft during decoration.
- Use an offset spatula for even frosting or a piping bag for decorative designs.
Assembly Guidance
- Use a cake turntable for easy layering and decorating.
- Chill the assembled cake for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps stabilize the layers and enhances slicing precision.
Storage and Longevity
- Store your finished cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- Bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Quick Summary Table for Success
| Aspect | Key Tip |
|---|---|
| Measurement Accuracy | Follow accurate weights and level scoops. |
| Ingredient Quality | Use high-quality cocoa and gel food color. |
| Mixing | Avoid overmixing the batter. |
| Baking | Preheat and rotate cake pans evenly. |
| Cooling | Cool on a rack to avoid soggy layers. |
| Frosting | Start with softened butter and chill as needed. |
| Assembly | Use a turntable and chill the cake layers. |
| Storage | Refrigerate up to 5 days in an airtight container. |
Storage And Make-Ahead Instructions
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the moist texture and flavor of the Waldorf Astoria Red Cake. Additionally, preparing components in advance can save time and reduce stress on big celebration days. Here’s how to keep your cake fresh and plan ahead effectively:
Storing the Cake
- Unfrosted Cake Layers:
- Once the cake layers have completely cooled, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store them at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, place the wrapped layers in an airtight container or freeze them for up to 3 months.
- Frosted Cake:
- If the cake is already assembled and frosted, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a cake dome.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving to enhance its velvety texture.
- Slices or Leftovers:
- Place individual slices in airtight containers or wrap tightly in both plastic wrap and foil.
- Refrigerate slices for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months.
Freezing Tips
- For frosted cakes, it is best to flash freeze the cake (place it uncovered in the freezer for 1 hour) before wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. This prevents the frosting from being damaged.
- Label the wrapped cake with the date to ensure you enjoy it before the quality diminishes.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To save time and effort, here are some ways to prepare the cake in advance:
| Component | Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Cake Layers | Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in an airtight container | Up to 3 months |
| Cream Cheese Frosting | Store in an airtight container in the fridge | Up to 5 days |
| Fully Assembled Cake | Cover with plastic wrap or a cake dome, refrigerate | Up to 5 days |
- Cake Layers:
Prepare the cake layers 1-3 days ahead and store as described above. When ready to assemble, let them thaw (if frozen) at room temperature for about 1-2 hours.
- Cream Cheese Frosting:
The frosting can be made up to 5 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before using, allow it to soften slightly and rewhip it for a smooth consistency.
- Full Assembly:
For special events, we recommend assembling and frosting the cake 1 day prior. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while maintaining freshness.
“A perfect Waldorf Astoria Red Cake is not only a joy to eat but also easy to store when done right.” Keep these instructions in mind for a stress-free baking experience.
Conclusion
The Waldorf Astoria Red Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of timeless elegance and indulgence. By recreating this iconic cake in our own kitchens, we get to experience a slice of history while adding a touch of luxury to our celebrations.
With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, crafting this masterpiece becomes an enjoyable and rewarding process. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply to treat ourselves, this cake never fails to impress. Let’s continue to celebrate life’s sweetest moments with this classic recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Waldorf Astoria Red Cake?
The Waldorf Astoria Red Cake is a historic dessert from the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. It features a vibrant red velvet texture paired with creamy cream cheese frosting, making it a luxurious and indulgent choice for special occasions.
What makes the Waldorf Astoria Red Cake unique?
Its rich history, vibrant red color, and velvety texture make it unique. The cake blends nostalgia with elegance, offering a timeless dessert perfect for celebrations.
What ingredients are needed for the Waldorf Astoria Red Cake?
The cake requires all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, buttermilk, cocoa powder, red food coloring, eggs, and butter. The frosting includes cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
How do I make the Waldorf Astoria Red Cake?
The process involves preparing the cake batter with precise measurements, baking the layers, making the cream cheese frosting, and assembling the cake. Detailed step-by-step instructions ensure a smooth process.
What equipment do I need to bake the cake?
You’ll need large mixing bowls, a whisk, a stand or hand mixer, a spatula, measuring tools, 9-inch round cake pans, parchment paper, a cooling rack, and an offset spatula.
What are some expert tips for baking the perfect cake?
Use high-quality ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter, preheat the oven properly, and let the layers cool completely before frosting. A cake turntable can simplify decoration.
Can I make the cake components in advance?
Yes, you can prepare cake layers in advance and freeze them, or store the cream cheese frosting in the refrigerator. Assemble everything closer to the event for the best results.
How should the cake be stored?
Wrap unfrosted layers tightly in plastic and store at room temperature or freeze. Keep frosted cakes or slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
Can I customize the color of the cake?
Yes, you can adjust the amount or type of food coloring (gel-based is best) to reach your desired intensity of red.
Is the recipe suitable for beginners?
Yes, the step-by-step instructions and expert tips provided in the recipe make it beginner-friendly. Patience and precision ensure great results!