A Show-Stopping Dessert That’s Almost Too Pretty to Eat
When it comes to desserts that dazzle, this Red and White Layered Cream Cheese Cake takes the cake—literally! Imagine soft, velvety layers of red and white cake stacked with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. This visually stunning treat combines festive colors with luscious flavors, making it perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or a chic wedding shower.
Each bite is a delightful combination of moist cake layers and rich frosting. The red velvet and vanilla flavors play off each other beautifully, creating a harmonious balance that feels indulgent but not overpowering. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself, this cake is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece. The bold red and pristine white layers create a striking contrast, while the cream cheese frosting ties everything together with a creamy, slightly tangy touch. Plus, it’s easy to customize for any occasion or color scheme!
A Family Favorite That Wows Every Time
The first time I made this cake, it was for my daughter’s birthday. Her eyes lit up when she saw the vibrant red and white layers, and after the first bite, the entire family was hooked. It’s now our go-to dessert for celebrations, and it never fails to get rave reviews from guests.
Why This Red and White Layered Cream Cheese Cake Stands Out
- Eye-Catching Colors: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just when you want to make a statement.
- Flavor Balance: The richness of red velvet complements the light vanilla cake, while the cream cheese frosting adds a delightful tang.
- Customizable: Switch up the colors or flavors to match your event or preferences.
Cuisine: American
Tips for Success
- Level Layers: Use a serrated knife or cake leveler for even stacking.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother batter and frosting.
- Chill Before Frosting: Refrigerate layers for 30 minutes before assembly to prevent crumbling.
Substitutions and Variations
- Color Options: Swap red food coloring for blue, pink, or green for different themes.
- Flavor Boost: Add almond or lemon extract to the white cake for a unique twist.
- Healthier Alternative: Use Greek yogurt instead of oil in the red velvet cake for a lighter option.
Make a Healthier Version
- Substitute half the sugar with a natural sweetener like coconut sugar.
- Use low-fat cream cheese for the frosting.
- Replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Categories: Desserts, Cakes, Celebration Cakes
Tags: Layered cake, red velvet, cream cheese frosting, celebration dessert
FAQs About Red and White Layered Cream Cheese Cake
- Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, bake the layers a day in advance and frost before serving. - How do I store this cake?
Keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. - Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Wrap unfrosted layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. - What can I use instead of red food coloring?
Try beet juice or a natural red food dye for a healthier alternative.
And there you have it! A Red and White Layered Cream Cheese Cake that’s as stunning as it is delicious. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Print
Red and White Layered Cream Cheese Cake
Description
When it comes to desserts that dazzle, this Red and White Layered Cream Cheese Cake takes the cake—literally! Imagine soft, velvety layers of red and white cake stacked with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients
For the Red Velvet Cake Layers:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp red food coloring
For the White Cake Layers:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large egg whites
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Red Velvet Layers
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, vinegar, and vanilla.
- Beat sugar and oil in a large bowl until combined. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in food coloring.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
- Divide batter between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. Cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the White Cake Layers
- Grease and line two more 9-inch pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg whites one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
- Divide batter between pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. Cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla until fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Place a red velvet layer on a cake board. Spread a thin layer of frosting on top.
- Add a white cake layer, then frost again. Repeat with remaining layers, alternating red and white.
- Frost the entire cake with cream cheese frosting and smooth with a spatula.
