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Red Velvet Wreath Cake

A festive and visually stunning wreath-shaped red velvet cake topped with luscious cream cheese frosting, perfect for holiday celebrations.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour perfect for that light and airy texture
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar adding sweetness and moisture
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder for that lovely rise
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda ensuring fluffiness
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt to balance flavors
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder just enough for a subtle chocolate essence
  • 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract infusing warmth into the batter
  • 1 tablespoon red food coloring gel preferred for that iconic hue
  • 2 large eggs contributing to the tenderness
  • 1 cup buttermilk at room temperature for added richness
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened to create a creamy texture
  • 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar enhancing the cake’s color and flavor
For the Frosting
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened for the frosting
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened, making the frosting velvety
  • 4 cups powdered sugar for a fluffy frosting
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhancing the frosting’s flavor
Garnish (Optional)
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries for garnish
  • 1 cup fresh blackberries adding elegance and a tart contrast
  • 3 sprigs fresh rosemary for a touch of greenery
  • to taste powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
  • to taste small star-shaped sprinkles for that festive touch

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your bundt or wreath-shaped pan by greasing and flouring it.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well mixed.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the vanilla extract, red food coloring, eggs, buttermilk, softened butter, and vinegar, stirring until smooth.
  4. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just incorporated.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until perfectly smooth.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting reaches a fluffy consistency.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Decoration
  1. Once the cake has cooled completely, generously spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
  2. Utilizing a piping bag, create a decorative wreath effect around the edges of the cake.
  3. Adorn the cake with fresh cranberries, blackberries, and sprigs of rosemary. Dust lightly with powdered sugar and sprinkle with star-shaped sprinkles for a festive touch.

Notes

Let your butter and eggs reach room temperature for a smoother batter. Gel food coloring provides a vibrant hue without altering the batter significantly. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar to avoid a cloud of sugar. Consider adding a hint of orange or almond extract to the frosting for variation.