Go Back

Red Velvet Wreath Cake

A visually stunning and delicious holiday dessert that combines a rich red velvet cake with creamy frosting, perfect for festive gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Forms the cake's foundation.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar For sweetness, balancing the cocoa.
  • 1 tsp baking soda Helps the cake rise.
  • 1 tsp cocoa powder Enhances the red velvet flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp salt Brings out the flavors.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Adds warmth and depth.
  • 1.5 cups buttermilk Provides moistness.
  • 0.5 cups vegetable oil Ensures a rich texture.
  • 2 large eggs For binding and moisture.
  • 2 tbsp red food coloring Creates the signature color.
  • 1 tsp white vinegar Reacts with baking soda for fluffiness.
For the cream cheese frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Rich and tangy base.
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened Adds creaminess.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Balances the frosting's tanginess.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances frosting flavor.
  • 1-2 tbsp heavy cream For adjusting consistency.
For decoration
  • Green sprinkles or green-colored sugar Mimics the look of a wreath.
  • Red sprinkles or sugar crystals Adds pops of color.
  • Holiday-themed decorations For additional flair.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan, preferably a bundt pan or wreath-shaped pan, and set it aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
  3. Add buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
  2. Allow cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Adjust consistency with heavy cream as needed.
  3. Once the cake is cool, frost the top and sides generously with cream cheese frosting.
Decoration
  1. Sprinkle green-colored sugar around the edges to mimic a wreath.
  2. Add red sprinkles or sugar crystals for color. Optionally incorporate holiday-themed decorations.

Notes

Use quality ingredients for the best flavor. Let the cake cool completely before frosting for a sturdy finish. Adjust food coloring for a more intense color. You can make the cake ahead of time and frost just before serving.