Royal Purple Velvet Cake with Creamy Vanilla Frosting

When it comes to desserts that dazzle both the eyes and taste buds, nothing compares to a Royal Purple Velvet Cake with Creamy Vanilla Frosting. This cake is the ultimate centerpiece for any celebration, boasting a rich, velvety texture, a gorgeous purple hue, and a tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or just indulging your creative side, this cake will leave a lasting impression.

With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, you’ll create a masterpiece that looks like it came straight from a professional bakery. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Royal Purple Velvet Cake

1. Show-Stopping Appearance: The vibrant royal purple color is stunning and perfect for any special occasion.
2. Balanced Flavor: A hint of cocoa, a touch of vanilla, and the tang of buttermilk combine for a decadent, well-rounded taste.
3. Luscious Frosting: The creamy vanilla frosting is the perfect complement to the moist, fluffy cake.
4. Beginner-Friendly: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results.

Ingredients for the Cake and Frosting

Here’s everything you’ll need to create your Royal Purple Velvet Cake and creamy vanilla frosting.

For the Royal Purple Velvet Cake

Ingredient	Quantity
Fine flour	3 cups
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Buttermilk (room temperature)	1⅓ cups
Unsalted butter (softened)	½ cup
Large eggs (room temperature)	4
Unsweetened cocoa powder	2 heaping tbsp
Pure vanilla extract	2 tsp
Purple liquid food coloring	A dash (adjust as desired)
Baking soda	1 tsp
White vinegar	1 tsp

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredient	Quantity
Cream cheese (softened)	8 ounces
Unsalted butter (softened)	8 ounces
Powdered sugar	2 cups
Pure vanilla extract	2 tsp

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create a perfect Royal Purple Velvet Cake with Creamy Vanilla Frosting:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by lightly greasing them and dusting with flour. Set aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder until well combined. This ensures the cocoa is evenly distributed and avoids clumps.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix for about 3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

5. Alternate Buttermilk and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

6. Add Purple Food Coloring

Add a dash of purple liquid food coloring to the batter and stir gently until the color is evenly distributed. Add more if needed to achieve your desired shade of royal purple.

7. Incorporate Baking Soda and Vinegar

In a small bowl, mix the baking soda and white vinegar. The mixture will fizz slightly. Quickly fold it into the batter for a light, airy texture.

8. Divide and Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to level the tops. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool the Cakes

Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack and let them cool completely before frosting.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.

2. Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Assembling the Cake

1. Layer the Cake

Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top with an offset spatula.

2. Add the Second Layer

Position the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides evenly. Smooth the frosting for a clean look, or create decorative swirls for texture.

3. Decorate

Garnish with edible flowers, purple sugar sprinkles, or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a regal finish.

Pro Tips for Baking Success

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk, are at room temperature to create a smooth batter.
2. Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel-based food coloring offers more vibrant results with less liquid added.
3. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense and tough. Stir just until combined.
4. Cool Completely Before Frosting: Frosting a warm cake will cause the frosting to melt and slide off.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	~450
Total Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	54g
Protein	5g
Sugars	38g

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.

Creative Variations

1. Ombre Layers: Divide the batter into portions and use varying amounts of purple food coloring for a gradient effect.
2. Marbled Design: Swirl in some white cake batter for a stunning marbled look.
3. Cupcake Version: Bake the batter in muffin tins for 15-18 minutes to create individual cupcakes.
4. Themed Decorations: Customize the cake for special occasions with matching sprinkles, edible glitter, or themed toppers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Vinegar and Baking Soda Step: This reaction is key to a light and fluffy texture.
2. Using Cold Ingredients: Cold ingredients can prevent the batter from mixing properly.
3. Not Leveling the Cake Layers: Uneven layers make it harder to frost and stack.

FAQs About Royal Purple Velvet Cake

1. Can I use gel food coloring instead of liquid?

Yes, gel food coloring works well and provides a more vibrant hue with less liquid.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and frost the next day.

3. How should I store leftovers?

Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

4. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.

5. Can I use a different frosting?

Sure! Swiss meringue buttercream or whipped white chocolate ganache are excellent alternatives.

6. What can I use instead of buttermilk?

Combine 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes, and you’ll have a buttermilk substitute.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Celebration Cake Awaits

The Royal Purple Velvet Cake with Creamy Vanilla Frosting isn’t just a dessert—it’s a masterpiece. With its luxurious purple hue, rich cocoa-vanilla flavor, and silky frosting, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, it’s a recipe worth trying.

Now, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake something truly magical. Your friends and family will thank you!

Print