Red Velvet Tree Cake

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 2 tbsp red food coloring

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for consistency)

Optional Decorations:

• Green food coloring (for frosting)
• Holiday sprinkles, edible pearls, or mini candies
• Star-shaped topper (fondant, chocolate, or edible decoration)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour a tree-shaped cake pan or prepare a round or rectangular pan for carving the shape later.

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Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring until smooth.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

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Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

1. Beat the cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and add milk, if needed, for desired consistency.

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Step 5: Assemble and Decorate

1. If carving the tree shape, use a knife to cut the cooled cake into a triangular tree shape.
2. Spread a thin layer of frosting over the cake (crumb coat) and chill for 15 minutes.
3. Divide the remaining frosting into two portions. Tint one portion green with food coloring.
4. Use a spatula or piping bag to frost the tree with green frosting.
5. Decorate with holiday sprinkles, edible pearls, or candies to mimic ornaments. Place a star-shaped topper at the top of the tree.

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Tips for Success

• Buttermilk Substitute: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice and let sit for 5 minutes.
• Layered Option: Stack two tree-shaped cakes with a frosting layer in between for added height.
• Storage: Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

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Enjoy your Red Velvet Tree Cake, a festive centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is decorative! 🎄❤️