Blue Velvet Cake Recipe

Close-up of a frosted Blue Velvet Cake on a cake stand, showcasing the smooth texture of the cream cheese icing.

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Vibrant Blue Velvet Cake Recipe with soft cocoa cake layers and dreamy cream cheese frosting. A colorful twist on classic velvet cakes!

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Okay, let me be real with you—the first time I made this Blue Velvet Cake, I was terrified. Why? Because it was for my best friend’s baby shower, and everyone was expecting something Pinterest-worthy. (No pressure, right?)

I spent the night before Googling “how to make food coloring not look weird” because, honestly, the idea of blue cake felt a little… bold. But as soon as I mixed the batter and saw that gorgeous shade of royal blue come to life, I knew I was onto something special.

Fast forward to the big day: I’m standing in the kitchen, nervously cutting the first slice, and I hear someone say, “Wow, this is so pretty!” Cue all the relief. The cake was a hit—soft, moist, with just the right hint of cocoa. And the cream cheese frosting? Let’s just say a few people went back for seconds (or thirds). Now it’s my go-to for anything that needs a little drama and a lot of deliciousness.

Why You’ll Love This Blue Velvet Cake Recipe?

Here’s why this Blue Velvet Cake Recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:

  • It’s a Conversation Starter: Seriously, who doesn’t do a double take when they see a bright blue cake?
  • Velvety Perfection: Thanks to buttermilk and a touch of cocoa, this cake is soft, tender, and not overly sweet.
  • Showstopping Frosting: That cream cheese frosting is so good, you might just eat it with a spoon.
  • Fun for Any Occasion: Birthdays, baby showers, or even just a random Tuesday—it fits right in.

Close-up of a frosted Blue Velvet Cake on a cake stand, showcasing the smooth texture of the cream cheese icing.

Ingredient Notes:

Let’s talk ingredients. Each one does its part to make this cake unforgettable:

  • Butter: Softened butter is your secret weapon for a rich, moist cake. Don’t skip the room temperature step—trust me on this.
  • Food Coloring: A combo of royal blue and violet creates that vibrant color. Play around with the shades until you get it just right.
  • Buttermilk: Adds a tangy richness and keeps the cake tender. No buttermilk? Mix a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice into a cup of milk.
  • Cocoa Powder: Just a hint gives the cake a subtle chocolate flavor without stealing the show.
  • Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting. Softened cream cheese is key for a smooth, dreamy texture.
  • Powdered Sugar: Gradually adding this prevents lumps and keeps the frosting light and fluffy.

Interior view of the Blue Velvet Cake, highlighting its rich blue color and soft crumb with a layer of frosting in between.

How To Make Blue Velvet Cake?

Making this cake is way easier than it looks—promise!

  1. Start with the Batter:
    Cream the butter and sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. This step is what makes the cake soft, so don’t rush it. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla and food coloring. (Pro tip: If you don’t want blue hands for a week, wear gloves when handling the food coloring.)
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
    In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Sifting might feel like an unnecessary step, but it helps keep the batter smooth and lump-free.
  3. Combine It All:
    Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk mixture to the batter, starting and ending with the dry. This keeps the batter light and airy. Don’t overmix—just go until everything is combined.
  4. Bake the Cake:
    Divide the batter between two greased 8-inch pans. Bake at 350°F for 24-26 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely before you even think about frosting.
  5. Make the Frosting:
    Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the milk and vanilla, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar. The result? A frosting so good you’ll want to lick the bowl (and I totally won’t judge if you do).
  6. Assemble and Decorate:
    Place one cake layer on a plate and spread a thick layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer, then frost the top and sides. Go for a rustic look or smooth it out—it’s your masterpiece!

Storage Options:

Here’s how to keep your cake fresh:

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  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
  • Refrigerator: Keep it chilled for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temp before serving for the best flavor.
  • Freezer: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Variations and Substitutions:

Feel like switching things up? Here’s how to make this recipe your own:

  • Different Colors: Swap blue for another vibrant shade, like purple or green, to match your theme.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a version everyone can enjoy.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based butter, cream cheese, and milk for a vegan-friendly option.
  • Extra Cocoa: Add another tablespoon of cocoa powder for a slightly more chocolatey twist.

Decorated Blue Velvet Cake with textured cream cheese frosting, perfect for a special celebration or dessert centerpiece.

What to Serve with Blue Velvet Cake?

This cake is a star on its own, but if you’re feeling fancy:

  • Ice Cream: Vanilla or even a fruity sorbet complements the richness of the cake.
  • Fresh Berries: Add some blueberries or raspberries for a pop of freshness.
  • Coffee or Tea: A warm drink is the perfect balance to the cake’s sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Definitely! Bake the layers a day ahead and wrap them in plastic. Frost just before serving for the freshest results.

Why does this recipe use vinegar?

Vinegar reacts with the baking soda to create a fluffy texture. Don’t worry—you won’t taste it in the final cake!

Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?

Absolutely! Gel coloring works great and usually requires less to achieve the same vibrant blue.

So, what do you think? Ready to add a little color to your dessert game? I’d love to hear how your Blue Velvet Cake turns out—tag me when you make it, and let’s all admire that gorgeous blue!

A cut piece of Blue Velvet Cake, revealing the deep blue layers and a creamy frosting finish, ready to be served.

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A cut piece of Blue Velvet Cake, revealing the deep blue layers and a creamy frosting finish, ready to be served.

Blue Velvet Cake Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
This Blue Velvet Cake Recipe offers vibrant layers of moist, cocoa-infused cake paired with rich cream cheese frosting. A fun, colorful twist on the classic velvet cake, perfect for celebrations or special occasions.
12 Servings

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • ½ cup butter softened
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons royal blue food coloring
  • 1-2 drops violet food coloring
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 ½ tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ⅓ cups buttermilk room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar

For the Frosting:

  • 16 ounces cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup butter softened
  • 2 tablespoons 2% milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 6 cups powdered sugar

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven:

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

Prepare the Cake Batter:

  1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract and the food colorings until the batter achieves a vibrant blue hue.

Combine the Dry Ingredients:

  1. In a separate large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt. Set aside.

Incorporate the Wet and Dry Mixtures:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and vinegar. Gradually add the dry ingredients and buttermilk mixture to the creamed butter mixture in alternating batches, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender cake.

Bake the Cakes:

  1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 24-26 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Frosting:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 3 minutes. Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition, until the frosting is light and spreadable.

Assemble the Cake:

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread an even layer of frosting over the top. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Smooth the frosting with a spatula or leave it slightly textured for a rustic look.

Notes

To make this Blue Velvet Cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients, such as cocoa powder and powdered sugar, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
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< Hi, I'm Bitty! >

I'm Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my "About Me" page for more info!

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