Pink Velvet Cake

Pink Velvet Cake is a soft, fluffy, and visually stunning dessert that brings all the elegance of classic velvet cake with a romantic pink twist. With its delicate crumb and lightly sweet flavor, this cake is perfect for birthdays, showers, Valentine’s Day, or any celebration that calls for a little extra charm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake isn’t just pretty—it’s delicious. It features a tender, moist texture thanks to the use of buttermilk and a smooth, rich flavor that’s lighter than red velvet but just as luxurious. It’s easy to make and pairs beautifully with cream cheese frosting or a light vanilla buttercream. Whether you’re a baking pro or a first-timer, this cake is sure to impress.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Buttermilk
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Vegetable oil
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Pink gel food coloring
• White vinegar
• Optional: almond extract or a hint of lemon zest for extra flavor

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line with parchment.
2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, beat butter, oil, and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla extract (and almond or lemon zest if using).
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour.
6. Stir in vinegar and pink food coloring until desired shade is achieved.
7. Pour batter evenly into prepared pans and smooth the tops.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Frost with cream cheese frosting, vanilla buttercream, or your choice of frosting.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 10–12 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Bake time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: About 50–60 minutes

Variations

• Use strawberry or raspberry extract in place of vanilla for a fruity twist.
• Add a layer of berry jam between cake layers for extra flavor.
• Bake as cupcakes (yields about 24) and reduce baking time to 18–20 minutes.
• Make a marble effect by swirling white and pink batters together.
• Top with fresh strawberries or edible flowers for decoration.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain moisture, wrap slices individually or cover tightly. Bring to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months—wrap well in plastic and foil.

FAQs

What makes it a velvet cake?

The combination of buttermilk, vinegar, and a small amount of baking soda gives velvet cakes their signature tender crumb.

Can I use liquid food coloring?

Yes, but gel food coloring is more concentrated and won’t affect the texture.

Can I make it without buttermilk?

You can substitute with milk and vinegar or lemon juice (1 tablespoon acid per 1 cup milk).

What frosting pairs best?

Cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream complement the flavor perfectly.

Can I bake it in a 9×13 pan?

Yes, just adjust the bake time to about 35–40 minutes and check for doneness.

How do I make it more vibrant pink?

Use gel food coloring and add gradually until the color is to your liking.

Can I use cake flour?

Yes, for an even softer crumb, substitute all-purpose flour with cake flour (use 1 cup + 2 tablespoons cake flour for every cup of AP flour).

Is this cake overly sweet?

No, it has a balanced sweetness and a subtle vanilla flavor—especially nice with tangy cream cheese frosting.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, bake the cake layers a day in advance and store covered. Frost just before serving.

Will the pink color fade when baked?

No, if using gel food coloring, the pink stays vibrant after baking.

Conclusion

Pink Velvet Cake is as delightful to eat as it is to look at. With its smooth, velvety texture, delicate pink hue, and customizable flavor, it’s a showstopping dessert that’s perfect for any festive occasion. Whether you’re baking it for a special someone or just for yourself, this cake is guaranteed to brighten the table and bring smiles all around.

Print