Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder.
- In another bowl, mix the oil, eggs, buttermilk, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Add the purple food coloring and stir until evenly mixed.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until smooth and combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, and beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of the first cake layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
6. Serve:
Once frosted, the Purple Velvet Cake is ready to be served! You can garnish with sprinkles or edible flowers for a decorative touch.