Purple Velvet Cake Recipe is a vibrant twist on the classic velvet cake, made with rich cocoa and a bold purple color that stands out beautifully.
This Purple Velvet Cake Recipe tastes incredibly moist, soft, and sweet with a slight hint of cocoa. I made this Purple Velvet Cake Recipe after seeing a gorgeous version in a small bakery in New Orleans that caught my eye instantly.
The deep purple color inspired me to recreate it in my kitchen. The main specialty of this recipe lies in its striking color and melt in the mouth texture. Now I will show step by step how I made it.
Why Peoples Like Purple Velvet Cake Recipe?
People enjoy Purple Velvet Cake Recipe because of its striking color and soft, moist texture. The unique hue draws attention and adds a sense of fun to dessert tables.
Each bite delivers a rich taste balanced by a light hint of cocoa. The smooth cream cheese frosting complements the Purple Velvet Cake Recipe flavour, creating a memorable combination.
Purple Velvet Cake Recipe stands out visually, making it a favorite for celebrations. The color also appeals to those who enjoy creative twists on classic desserts like red velvet.
How To Prepare Purple Velvet Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American (Modern Twist)
Yield: 1 two-layer 9-inch cake (serves 12)
Equipment Needed
- Two 9-inch round cake pans
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or hand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire cooling rack
- Sifter or fine mesh sieve
- Offset spatula (for frosting)
Ingredients
For The Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons red food colouring
- Purple food colouring (add to desired colour intensity)
For The Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 pound cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix The Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
Step 3: Mix The Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Add red food colouring and enough purple food colouring to achieve a deep violet shade.
Step 4: Combine Batter
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing just until smooth. Avoid over-mixing.
Step 5: Bake The Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Make The Frosting
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract, then gradually beat in the sifted confectioners’ sugar until fully combined and fluffy.
Step 7: Assemble And Frost
Once cakes are fully cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting evenly on top. Add the second layer and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth the top and sides.
Special Notes
I prefer gel coloring since it provides a richer color without adding too much liquid to the batter. Feel free to adjust the amount for a deeper or lighter purple.
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
Nutrition | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 400 kcal |
Fat | 22 g |
Saturated Fat | 12 g |
Cholesterol | 80 mg |
Sodium | 300 mg |
Carbohydrates | 48 g |
Sugar | 35 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Serving Suggestions Purple Velvet Cake Recipe
Purple Velvet Cake Recipe chilled for a refreshing dessert experience. Pair slices with fresh raspberries or blackberries to add a tart contrast.
Dust the top lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Offer alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. Garnish with mint leaves to introduce a pop of colour and freshness.

Hot Tips
➢ Use gel food coloring for a deeper purple shade without thinning the batter.
➢ Bring eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese to room temperature for a smoother mix.
➢ Sift dry ingredients to prevent clumps and ensure even texture.
➢ Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
➢ Cool the cake layers completely before frosting to avoid melting the cream cheese frosting.
How To Make Purple Velvet Cake Recipe Tastier?
Purple Velvet Cake Recipe Use high quality vanilla extract and fresh buttermilk to enhance the flavor. Add a touch of almond extract for depth.
Sift dry ingredients to keep the texture light and smooth. Use gel-based purple colouring for a vibrant look without thinning the batter.
Slightly increase the cocoa powder for a richer taste. Chill the frosting before spreading to keep it firm and creamy. Toasted pecans or a pinch of sea salt on top adds balance and contrast.
How To Store The Finished Purple Velvet Cake Recipe?
Wrap the finished Purple Velvet Cake Recipe ightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator.
This helps keep the frosting firm and the cake moist. For longer storage, freeze the Purple Velvet Cake Recipe after wrapping and placing it in a freezer safe container. Thaw the Purple Velvet Cake Recipe in the refrigerator before serving to maintain its texture and flavour.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Gives Purple Velvet Cake Its Vibrant Colour?
The combination of red and purple food colouring creates the distinctive purple hue.
Can Buttermilk Be Substituted?
Yes, you can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a buttermilk substitute.
Is Cream Cheese Frosting Necessary?
While traditional, other frostings like butter cream can also be used.
Can This Cake Be Made Gluten Free?
Yes, by replacing all purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What Type Of Cocoa Powder Works Best?
Using unsweetened cocoa powder provides the right balance of flavour without darkening the colour too much.
Purple Velvet Cake Recipe was an easy and delicious success that I truly enjoyed making. The rich flavor and beautiful color made it extra special.
I hope you feel inspired to try this Purple Velvet Cake Recipe in your own kitchen. It’s simple to follow and brings amazing results.
Now it’s your turn to make it soon and tell me how much you loved the taste after baking. I’m sure you’ll enjoy every bite just like I did.
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Purple Velvet Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, vinegar, and vanilla extract. Add red food colouring and enough purple food colouring to achieve a deep violet shade.
- Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing just until smooth. Avoid over-mixing.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add vanilla extract, then gradually beat in the sifted confectioners’ sugar until fully combined and fluffy.
- Once cakes are fully cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting evenly on top. Add the second layer and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth the top and sides.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400 kcal | Fat: 22 g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 80 mg | Sodium: 300 mg | Carbohydrates: 48 g | Sugar: 35 g | Protein: 4 g
“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”