How to Make a Purple Velvet Cake

My Magical Purple Velvet Creation !

       This vibrant twist on red Purple velvet cake combines red and purple food coloring, resulting in a stunning, eye-catching hue. It’s finished with a luscious cream cheese frosting for the perfect balance of flavor.

Purple Velvet Cake

Let me introduce you to one of my all-time favorite cake recipes, one that always wows the crowd at any gathering. This gorgeous purple velvet cake looks like it belongs in a fairy tale, yet it’s completely achievable in your own kitchen. The ultra-moist layers, paired with my signature white chocolate cream cheese frosting, create an irresistible dessert that’s as magical as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

      Remember the excitement of discovering that purple wasn’t just a mix of red and blue? This cake brings that same sense of wonder to life! I took everything that makes classic red velvet irresistible and gave it a playful, whimsical twist. The moment you slice into its vibrant violet layers, you’ll see faces light up, because this cake is just that special.

Ingredients : 

For the Cake:

  • All-purpose flour – 2 ½ cups, forms the structure of the cake.
  • Granulated sugar – 1 ½ cups, for the perfect level of sweetness.
  • Baking soda – 1 tsp, helps the cake rise beautifully.
  • Salt – 1 tsp, balances and enhances the flavors.
  • Cocoa powder – 1 tsp, adds a subtle hint of chocolate.
  • Vegetable oil – 1 ½ cups, ensures a soft, moist texture.
  • Buttermilk – 1 cup, at room temperature, for tangy richness.
  • Large eggs – 2, at room temperature, to bind everything together.
  • Red food coloring – 2 tbsp, contributes to the signature purple shade.
  • Purple food coloring – 1 tsp (or more), for a deeper, more vibrant hue.
  • White distilled vinegar – 1 tsp, keeps the cake tender.
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp, for warm, rich flavor.

For the Frosting:

  • Cream cheese – 1 lb, softened, for that signature tangy creaminess.
  • Unsalted butter – 2 sticks, at room temperature, for a smooth, fluffy texture.
  • Confectioners’ sugar – 4 cups, sifted, to sweeten and thicken the frosting.

Purple Velvet Cake

Instructions : 

Preheat & Prep

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your cake pans ready. I like to butter them generously before giving them a light dusting of flour, this ensures a perfect release once the cake is baked.

The Dry Ingredients

Sift together your flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. This step is key to achieving that signature velvet texture, no lumps allowed!

The Liquid Gold

Now comes the fun part! Whisk together your oil, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla, vinegar, and food coloring until everything blends into a smooth, silky mixture. Watching the color develop is like a little baking magic!

Mix It Up

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring gently until you get a velvety-smooth batter in the most stunning shade of purple. Take your time, no overmixing!

Into the Oven

Divide the batter evenly between your cake pans, smooth the tops, and pop them in the oven. Now sit back and enjoy as your kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of fresh cake! In about 25 minutes, you’ll have something truly special.

Whip Up the Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the texture is creamy. Gradually mix in the sifted confectioners’ sugar, ensuring a smooth consistency. Add the vanilla extract and melted white chocolate, whipping until light and airy.

Assemble and Decorate

Once the cake layers have cooled completely, spread an even layer of frosting between each tier. Use the remaining frosting to coat the cake, smoothing it out for a flawless finish.

Purple Velvet Cake

Storage Advice

Keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To make ahead, freeze individual cake layers (wrapped tightly) for up to three months.

Achieving the Best Color

For an ideal shade, start with red food coloring and add purple gradually. Gel food coloring works best to maintain batter consistency.

Frosting Tips

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest frosting. If too soft, chill for 15 minutes before frosting the cake.

Creative Variations

  • Enhance the frosting with a splash of almond extract for a nutty depth.
  • Garnish with edible glitter or fresh berries for added elegance.
  • Experiment with different color tones, such as lavender or deep violet.

Perfect for Any Celebration

From birthdays to special events, this purple velvet cake adds a unique and delightful touch to any table. With its soft, flavorful layers and decadent frosting, every bite is pure indulgence.

Give it a try and make it the highlight of your next gathering!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I achieve the perfect shade of purple?
    Mix red and purple food coloring, adjusting the ratio until you reach the desired hue. Gel-based colors work best for a more vibrant result.
  • Why use both buttermilk and vinegar?
    Both ingredients contribute to a tender texture and help activate baking soda, ensuring the cake rises properly.
  • Can I substitute cake flour?
    Yes, using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour will result in a softer, more delicate crumb.
  • Why should ingredients be at room temperature?
    Room-temperature eggs, buttermilk, butter, and cream cheese mix more evenly, leading to a smoother batter and better texture.
  • Can I prepare this in advance?
    Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers ahead of time then you can freeze them. For the best taste and texture, frost the cake just before serving.

Allergy Information

Please review the ingredient list for any allergens and consult a healthcare professional if you’re uncertain.

  • Dairy (buttermilk, cream cheese, butter)
  • Eggs
  • Wheat (flour)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and should not be considered as definitive health guidance.

  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: 28 g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Protein: 4 g

Conclusion

This cake is a delicious and eye-catching twist on the traditional red velvet, featuring a vibrant purple hue that will stand out at any celebration. It’s an ideal choice for events where you want to leave a lasting impression.

Purple Velvet Cake

Purple Velvet Cake

Sofia Brown
This vibrant twist on red velvet cake combines red and purple food coloring, resulting in a stunning, eye-catching hue.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 12
Calories 450 kcal

Notes

Ingredients : 

For the Cake:

  • All-purpose flour – 2 ½ cups, forms the structure of the cake.
  • Granulated sugar – 1 ½ cups, for the perfect level of sweetness.
  • Baking soda – 1 tsp, helps the cake rise beautifully.
  • Salt – 1 tsp, balances and enhances the flavors.
  • Cocoa powder – 1 tsp, adds a subtle hint of chocolate.
  • Vegetable oil – 1 ½ cups, ensures a soft, moist texture.
  • Buttermilk – 1 cup, at room temperature, for tangy richness.
  • Large eggs – 2, at room temperature, to bind everything together.
  • Red food coloring – 2 tbsp, contributes to the signature purple shade.
  • Purple food coloring – 1 tsp (or more), for a deeper, more vibrant hue.
  • White distilled vinegar – 1 tsp, keeps the cake tender.
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp, for warm, rich flavor.

For the Frosting:

  • Cream cheese – 1 lb, softened, for that signature tangy creaminess.
  • Unsalted butter – 2 sticks, at room temperature, for a smooth, fluffy texture.
  • Confectioners' sugar – 4 cups, sifted, to sweeten and thicken the frosting.

Instructions : 

Preheat & Prep

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your cake pans ready. I like to butter them generously before giving them a light dusting of flour, this ensures a perfect release once the cake is baked.

The Dry Ingredients

Sift together your flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. This step is key to achieving that signature velvet texture, no lumps allowed!

The Liquid Gold

Now comes the fun part! Whisk together your oil, buttermilk, eggs, vanilla, vinegar, and food coloring until everything blends into a smooth, silky mixture. Watching the color develop is like a little baking magic!

Mix It Up

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring gently until you get a velvety-smooth batter in the most stunning shade of purple. Take your time, no overmixing!

Into the Oven

Divide the batter evenly between your cake pans, smooth the tops, and pop them in the oven. Now sit back and enjoy as your kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of fresh cake! In about 25 minutes, you'll have something truly special.

Whip Up the Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until the texture is creamy. Gradually mix in the sifted confectioners' sugar, ensuring a smooth consistency. Add the vanilla extract and melted white chocolate, whipping until light and airy.

Assemble and Decorate

Once the cake layers have cooled completely, spread an even layer of frosting between each tier. Use the remaining frosting to coat the cake, smoothing it out for a flawless finish.

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