Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two 8 or 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs until light, then add buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and white vinegar, mixing until well blended.
- Stir in the red food coloring or beet powder into the wet mixture until you reach the desired pink hue.
- Gradually combine the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 28-32 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Cool the layers in the pans for 10-15 minutes, then invert them onto wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth, add vanilla and a pinch of salt, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar.
- Level cake layers if domed, then stack them, frosting between the layers, applying a crumb coat first.
- Frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Sift the dry ingredients to remove lumps and aerate. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
