Blue Velvet Cake Recipe

Blue Velvet Cake is a stunning and delicious twist on the classic red velvet cake. Featuring a rich, moist texture with a deep blue hue, this cake is complemented by a creamy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or whenever you want a unique and elegant dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning – A deep blue color makes this cake a showstopper.
• Soft & Moist – Buttermilk and vinegar create a tender crumb.
• Deliciously Balanced – A subtle cocoa flavor pairs beautifully with tangy cream cheese frosting.
• Perfect for Special Occasions – Ideal for birthdays, weddings, or themed celebrations.
• Easy to Customize – Add blueberries, sprinkles, or edible glitter for extra flair.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 tbsp royal blue gel food coloring
• ½ tsp violet gel food coloring (for deeper blue)

For the Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (for smoother texture)
• Blue food coloring (optional for a vibrant look)

Directions

Preheat & Prepare:

1. Preheat Oven – Set oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Cake Pans – Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

3. Combine Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.

Prepare the Batter:

4. Cream Butter & Sugar – In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add Eggs – Mix in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
6. Add Vanilla & Buttermilk – Stir in vanilla extract, then gradually add buttermilk, mixing until combined.
7. Incorporate Dry Ingredients – Gradually mix in the dry ingredient mixture until smooth.
8. Add Vinegar & Food Coloring – Stir in white vinegar, royal blue, and violet food coloring to achieve the perfect shade.

Bake the Cake:

9. Divide Batter Evenly – Pour batter into the prepared cake pans.
10. Bake – Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
11. Cool Completely – Allow cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting:

12. Beat Cream Cheese & Butter – In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
13. Add Powdered Sugar & Vanilla – Gradually mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream until light and fluffy.
14. Optional Blue Frosting – Add blue food coloring to the frosting for a bold, colorful finish.

Assemble & Decorate:

15. Layer the Cake – Spread frosting between the cake layers.
16. Frost the Outside – Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
17. Decorate – Garnish with fresh blueberries, edible glitter, or sprinkles for extra flair.

Serve & Enjoy:

18. Slice & Serve – Cut into slices and enjoy this velvety blue masterpiece!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Blueberry Blue Velvet Cake – Fold fresh or dried blueberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
• Ombre Blue Cake – Use different shades of blue food coloring in layers for a gradient effect.
• Chocolate Drizzle – Add a melted chocolate drizzle on top for extra richness.
• Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between the cake layers.
• Vegan Version – Use dairy-free butter, vegan cream cheese, and a plant-based buttermilk substitute (almond milk + vinegar).

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap cake layers separately in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.
• Reheating: Serve at room temperature for the best texture.

FAQs

What makes Blue Velvet Cake different from Red Velvet Cake?

Blue Velvet Cake has the same moist, tender texture as Red Velvet Cake but uses blue food coloring instead of red.

Why is vinegar used in the cake?

Vinegar reacts with baking soda and buttermilk to create a soft and fluffy cake texture.

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel food coloring?

Gel food coloring is recommended for a vibrant blue without altering the batter’s consistency.

How do I prevent my cake from turning green?

Adding a touch of violet food coloring helps maintain a rich blue hue without turning green.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance and frost them before serving.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

A mixture of 1 cup milk and 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice can substitute for buttermilk.

Can I make cupcakes instead of a cake?

Yes, divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes.

How do I get a smooth frosting finish?

Use an offset spatula and warm it slightly for a flawless, smooth frosting application.

Can I use cream cheese frosting alternatives?

Yes, buttercream or white chocolate ganache also pair well with Blue Velvet Cake.

What’s the best way to decorate this cake for a party?

Top with blueberries, silver sprinkles, or edible glitter for an elegant and festive look.

Conclusion

Blue Velvet Cake is a visually striking and delicious dessert, perfect for birthdays, special celebrations, or any time you want to impress your guests. With its soft, velvety texture and rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is as delicious as it is beautiful. Try this recipe today for a fun and unique twist on a classic favorite!