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Delicious yellow velvet cake topped with cream cheese frosting
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Yellow Velvet Cake

A moist and rich cake with a velvety texture and vibrant yellow hue, perfect for celebrations or everyday treats.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Southern
Keyword: birthday cake, Celebration Cake, Cream Cheese Frosting, Velvet Cake, Yellow Velvet Cake
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the Cake

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Provides a tender and airy structure
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Adds sweetness and contributes to moisture
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Crucial for rising and achieving soft texture
  • 1 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavor
  • 1 cup buttermilk Imparts creaminess and tender crumb
  • 1 cup vegetable oil Provides moisture without heavy flavors
  • 3 large eggs Binding agent for the cake
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Rounds out the flavors
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest Adds brightness to the cake
  • yellow food coloring Optional for vibrant hue

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

  • 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened Star ingredient for frosting
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Creates fluffy frosting
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens the frosting
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting) Complements cream cheese

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
  • In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, lemon zest, and food coloring.
  • Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Baking

  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting

  • Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
  • Once cakes are cooled, frost the top of one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides.
  • Optional: Decorate with sprinkles or additional lemon zest.

Serving

  • Slice and serve the cake, enjoying its rich yellow layers.

Notes

For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. You can make the cake ahead of time and frost it just before serving.