Hey there, baking enthusiasts! The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than by creating a show-stopping dessert that will make everyone smile? Today, I'm thrilled to share with you a delightful recipe for a Red Velvet Snowman Cake. With its vibrant red color, rich flavor, and adorable snowman design, this cake is sure to bring joy to your holiday table. So, let's dive right in and create a sweet masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For decorating:
- Mini chocolate chips or candy eyes
- Mini chocolate candies or orange candy-coated chocolates (for the snowman's buttons)
- Orange gumdrop or candy (for the snowman's nose)
- Chocolate wafer cookies or pretzel sticks (for the snowman's arms)
- Shredded coconut (for snow)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the red velvet cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until the batter is smooth.
Step 2: Baking the cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Making the cream cheese frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue to beat until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract until incorporated. Set aside.
Step 4: Assembling the snowman cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top, aligning it with the bottom layer. Frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting, creating a smooth surface.
Step 5: Decorating the snowman cake
Now comes the fun part—decorating! Sprinkle shredded coconut on the bottom of the cake to resemble snow. Use mini chocolate chips or candy eyes to create the snowman's eyes, mini chocolate candies or orange candy-coated chocolates for the buttons, and an orange gumdrop or candy for the nose. For the snowman's arms, insert chocolate wafer cookies or pretzel sticks on either side of the cake.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy!
Your Red Velvet Snowman Cake is ready to steal the show! Place it on your dessert table and watch everyone's eyes light up with delight. It's a perfect centerpiece for holiday parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in with loved ones.
Get creative with your decorations, and don't be afraid to add your own personal touch to the snowman's face and accessories. Enjoy the process of bringing this adorable cake to life and savor every festive bite. Happy baking and happy holidays!