Pink Velvet Cake
This Pink Velvet Cake is a beautiful twist on the classic red velvet cake. With its soft crumb, subtle vanilla flavor, and luscious cream cheese frosting, this stunning pink cake is perfect for birthdays, baby showers, Valentine's Day, bridal showers, and any celebration that calls for something extra special.
Its gorgeous pink color makes it a showstopper while still delivering the rich, velvety texture that makes velvet cakes so famous.
The History of Velvet Cake
Velvet cakes became popular in the early 1900s because of their exceptionally soft and tender texture. Traditional red velvet cake eventually became one of America's most iconic desserts, especially in the South.
Pink Velvet Cake offers a fun and elegant variation that has become popular for celebrations, princess parties, baby showers, and Valentine's Day desserts.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Soft and moist texture
Beautiful pink color
Rich cream cheese frosting
Perfect celebration cake
Easy homemade recipe
Great for birthdays and holidays
Prep Time
25 Minutes
Cook Time
30 Minutes
Total Time
55 Minutes
Servings
12
Ingredients
For the Cake
2½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon white vinegar
2 tablespoons beet powder
½ cup strawberry puree
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Garnish
Pink sprinkles
Fresh strawberries
White chocolate curls (optional)
Equipment Needed
Two 8-inch cake pans
Electric mixer
Mixing bowls
Cooling rack
Offset spatula
How to Make Pink Velvet Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl whisk together:
Flour
Cornstarch
Baking soda
Beet powder
Salt
Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Mix in vanilla extract and ½ cup strawberry puree.
Step 5: Add Buttermilk
Alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk until fully combined.
Mix in vinegar.
Add pink gel food coloring until the desired shade of pink is reached.
Step 6: Bake
Divide batter evenly between prepared cake pans.
Bake for 28-32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool completely before frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
Step 2
Gradually add powdered sugar.
Step 3
Mix in vanilla extract.
Beat until light and creamy.
Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
Spread frosting evenly over the top.
Add the second cake layer.
Frost the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate with pink sprinkles, strawberries, or white chocolate curls.
What to Serve with Pink Velvet Cake
Fresh Strawberries
Vanilla Ice Cream
Strawberry Ice Cream
Pink Cloud Sauce
Whipped Cream
Fresh Berries
Drink Pairings
Pink Hot Chocolate
A cozy pairing for special occasions.
Pink Strawberry Milk
Perfect for birthdays and parties.
Pink Lemonade
Adds a bright citrus balance.
Pink Mimosa
Ideal for bridal showers and brunches.
Strawberry Milkshake
A sweet and fun dessert pairing.
Expert Tips
Use gel food coloring for vibrant pink color.
Don't overmix the batter.
Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Use room temperature ingredients.
Chill the cake before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Variations
Strawberry Pink Velvet Cake
Add ½ cup strawberry puree to the batter.
Pink Velvet Bundt Cake
Bake in a Bundt pan for 45-50 minutes.
Pink Velvet Cupcakes
Bake for 18-20 minutes.
Pink Velvet Sheet Cake
Bake in a 9x13 pan for 30-35 minutes.
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Instructions
Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a cake velvet?
Velvet cakes are known for their soft, tender crumb and rich texture.
Can I use liquid food coloring?
Yes, but gel food coloring provides more vibrant color without thinning the batter.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. The cake layers can be baked a day in advance.
More Pink Recipes You'll Love
Final Thoughts
This Pink Velvet Cake is soft, moist, and beautifully pink from the inside out. With its rich cream cheese frosting and elegant appearance, it's the perfect centerpiece for birthdays, baby showers, Valentine's Day, and any celebration that deserves a little extra sweetness.