The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a show-stopping Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cake? This recipe is sure to impress your friends and family with its stunning presentation and delicious flavor. In this article, we'll take you through the step-by-step process of creating this masterpiece, from the moist red velvet cake to the creamy cream cheese frosting.
The History of Red Velvet Cake
Red velvet cake has been a beloved dessert for decades, with its origins dating back to the 1920s. The cake gets its distinctive red color from the reaction between the cocoa powder and acidic buttermilk, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. Over the years, red velvet cake has become a staple in many bakeries and restaurants, with various creative twists and interpretations.
Why Make a Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cake?
A Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cake is the perfect dessert for the holiday season. Not only does it look stunning, but it's also a delicious and moist cake that's sure to impress your guests. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy and creamy element to the cake, balancing out the sweetness of the red velvet. Plus, the Christmas tree shape makes it a fun and festive dessert that's sure to be a hit at any holiday party.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 teaspoons red food coloring
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cocoa powder
For the frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
Step 2: Make the Cake
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the red food coloring and vanilla extract.
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat just until combined.
Step 3: Add the Cocoa Powder
In a small bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and a splash of the buttermilk until smooth. Add the cocoa mixture to the cake batter and beat until just combined.
Step 4: Divide the Batter
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Smooth the tops.
Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the butter and beat until creamy. Beat in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top of the cake. Repeat with the remaining two cake layers.
Step 8: Shape the Cake into a Christmas Tree
Use a serrated knife to carve the cake into a Christmas tree shape. You can use a cake turntable to make it easier to carve and frost the cake.
Step 9: Frost the Cake
Frost the outside of the cake with the remaining frosting. Use a piping bag and tip to create a border around the bottom of the cake.
Tips and Variations
- To make the cake more stable, you can insert a wooden dowel or cake support into the center of the cake.
- To add some extra festive touch, you can sprinkle some edible glitter or snowflakes on top of the cake.
- If you want to make the cake more chocolatey, you can add some melted chocolate to the frosting.
Conclusion
A Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cake is a show-stopping dessert that's sure to impress your friends and family. With its moist red velvet cake and creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is a perfect treat for the holiday season. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
We hope you enjoy making and devouring this delicious Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cake. Don't forget to share your creations with us on social media using the hashtag #redvelvetchristmastreecake.
Gallery of Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cakes
What is the best way to store a Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cake?
+The best way to store a Red Velvet Christmas Tree Cake is to keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
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How do I carve the cake into a Christmas tree shape?
+To carve the cake into a Christmas tree shape, you can use a serrated knife to cut the cake into a triangular shape. You can also use a cake turntable to make it easier to carve and frost the cake.