A fun twist on the classic red velvet cake, this Purple Velvet Cake is as gorgeous as it is delicious! Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration where you want to wow your guests. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make. Let’s dive in!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Cost per Serving: $1.50
- Calorie Count per Serving: 320 calories
Table of Contents
Imagine a cake that combines the moist, velvety texture of red velvet with a bold, stunning purple hue. That’s the magic of this Purple Velvet Cake! It’s made with a hint of cocoa, a tangy cream cheese frosting, and all the wow-factor you could want. You’ll love the fluffy texture, rich flavor, and how easy it is to customize.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Purple Velvet Cake isn’t just a dessert – it’s an experience! Here’s why you’ll keep coming back for this recipe:
1. A Stunning Showstopper
The vibrant purple hue is a conversation starter at any gathering. Whether it’s for a wedding, a birthday, or a themed party, this cake steals the show. It’s an eye-catching centerpiece that gets everyone reaching for their cameras before their forks!
2. Classic Flavor with a Twist
If you love red velvet cake, this recipe delivers the same rich, buttery flavor with a hint of cocoa, but with a fun twist of color. It’s a perfect way to modernize a traditional favorite while keeping the flavor profile everyone loves.
3. Foolproof Moist Texture
This cake stays moist for days thanks to its perfect balance of buttermilk, vegetable oil, and the magic of vinegar reacting with baking soda. Every bite melts in your mouth with that signature velvet texture.
4. Easy to Make
You don’t need to be a professional baker to ace this recipe. The ingredients are straightforward, and the steps are simple to follow. Plus, the vibrant color hides any small imperfections – it’s as forgiving as it is beautiful!
5. Versatile for Any Occasion
From a whimsical birthday party to a sophisticated dinner soirée, this cake fits every mood. The color can also be swapped to match the theme – try green for St. Patrick’s Day or pastel purple for Easter.
6. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor
The tangy cream cheese frosting paired with the subtle cocoa flavor of the cake creates a perfect balance of richness and sweetness. It’s universally appealing, even for those who don’t have a huge sweet tooth.
7. Customizable & Fun
This cake is a blank canvas for your creativity! You can:
- Add edible glitter or flowers for an elegant look.
- Layer it with fruit preserves or chocolate ganache for extra indulgence.
- Swap out colors or flavors to make it uniquely yours.
8. Perfect for All Skill Levels
Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe is designed to work every time. The simple instructions and common ingredients make it accessible to everyone, while its impressive presentation makes you look like a pro.
You’ll love this Purple Velvet Cake not just for how it looks and tastes, but for the joy it brings to the table. Whether you’re baking it for someone special or treating yourself, it’s the kind of dessert that makes every occasion feel magical.
Ingredients needed
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 Âľ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk (or DIY: 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp purple gel food coloring
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, buttermilk, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Whisk until smooth.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Stir in the purple food coloring until you achieve your desired shade. The batter should look bold and vibrant.
2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3: Make the Frosting
- Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until smooth.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk.
4: Assemble the Cake
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second layer, then frost the entire cake. Smooth the sides or get creative with swirls!
- Decorate with purple sprinkles, edible flowers, or a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Calorie Count per Serving
Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: ~320
Carbs: 45g | Fat: 14g | Protein: 3g
Tips for the Perfect Purple Velvet Cake
Baking the ultimate Purple Velvet Cake doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these expert tips to ensure your cake turns out moist, vibrant, and utterly delicious every time:
1. Use Gel Food Coloring for Bold, Vibrant Purple
Liquid food coloring can water down your batter and give a muted hue. Gel food coloring (like this one on Amazon) provides rich, concentrated color without altering the texture. Start with a small amount and add gradually until you reach the perfect shade of purple.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter
After combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can make your cake dense and chewy instead of light and fluffy.
3. Room Temperature Ingredients Are Key
Make sure your eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese are at room temperature before you start. This ensures a smoother batter and a lump-free frosting. To speed things up, you can place eggs in warm water for 5 minutes or soften butter in the microwave on low power for a few seconds.
4. Measure Your Flour Correctly
Too much flour can make your cake dry. Use the spoon and level method: spoon the flour into your measuring cup, then level it off with a knife. Avoid packing the flour directly into the cup.
5. Add Food Coloring Gradually
For a perfectly balanced purple, start with a little food coloring and mix. Add more as needed. Remember, the color will darken slightly as it bakes, so aim for a shade slightly lighter than your desired final result.
6. Use Buttermilk for Moistness
Buttermilk is a must for the signature velvet texture. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, make a DIY version by mixing 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
7. Bake Evenly with These Tricks
- Use Baking Strips: These wrap around your cake pans to ensure even baking and flat tops.
- Rotate Pans: Halfway through baking, rotate the pans to avoid uneven browning if your oven has hot spots.
8. Test for Doneness the Right Way
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Avoid overbaking – the cake will continue to cook slightly as it cools.
9. Cool Completely Before Frosting
A warm cake will melt your frosting, leading to a messy disaster. Allow the cake layers to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. For extra precision, chill the layers for 30 minutes in the fridge before frosting.
10. Chill for Cleaner Frosting
To achieve a smooth, crumb-free frosting finish, apply a thin “crumb coat” (a light layer of frosting to seal in crumbs), then chill the cake for 15–30 minutes. Once set, add the final layer of frosting for a clean and professional look.
11. Use the Right Tools
- A rubber spatula ensures you scrape every bit of batter from the bowl.
- An offset spatula makes frosting easier and more precise.
- A turntable allows for smoother, more even frosting application.
12. Freeze for Longer Storage
If you want to make the cake ahead of time, freeze the unfrosted layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.
Pro Tip: Create a Custom Purple Blend
For a unique color, mix a little red and blue gel coloring instead of using pre-made purple. Adjust the ratios for a warmer or cooler tone depending on the look you want!
By following these tips, your Purple Velvet Cake will turn out perfect every time – moist, vibrant, and deliciously unforgettable!
Seasonal Decoration Ideas for Purple Velvet Cake
Transform your Purple Velvet Cake into a festive centerpiece that matches any season or celebration! With a few creative touches, you can elevate its presentation and wow your guests. Here are some seasonal decoration ideas to inspire you:
1. Spring: Fresh & Floral
Spring is all about freshness, soft colors, and flowers.
- Decorations:
- Garnish with edible flowers like pansies, violets, or lavender for a delicate touch.
- Add a light drizzle of white chocolate ganache for a “dew-kissed” effect.
- Color Palette:
- Stick with pastel shades for complementary hues – lavender, soft pink, or mint green.
- Toppings:
- Sprinkle the top with shredded coconut dyed green to mimic fresh grass.
2. Summer: Bold & Berry-Filled
Bring vibrant summer vibes with juicy fruits and bright decorations.
- Decorations:
- Add a berry medley on top – blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries pair beautifully with the purple cake.
- Sprinkle with gold leaf for a luxe summer feel.
- Color Palette:
- Go for rich purples, bright reds, and sunny yellows.
- Toppings:
- Add a few scoops of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to serve.
3. Fall: Cozy & Elegant
Give your Purple Velvet Cake a rustic autumn vibe with warm tones and cozy details.
- Decorations:
- Top with candied pecans, toasted walnuts, or edible gold-dusted leaves.
- Pipe frosting swirls in autumnal shades of orange, gold, and cream.
- Color Palette:
- Think warm and earthy – deep purple, burnt orange, and caramel brown.
- Toppings:
- Dust lightly with cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal flavor twist.
4. Winter: Frosty & Magical
Make your cake sparkle with frosty, winter-themed details that look straight out of a holiday storybook.
- Decorations:
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- Add white chocolate snowflakes, silver dragees, or glittery edible stars.
- Pipe snowflake designs with royal icing on the frosting.
- Color Palette:
- Stick to icy tones like white, silver, and soft blues to complement the purple.
- Toppings:
- Add a touch of peppermint by sprinkling crushed candy canes around the edges.
5. Halloween: Spooky & Fun
Turn your Purple Velvet Cake into the star of any Halloween party with spooky decorations!
- Decorations:
- Pipe black and orange spiderwebs onto the frosting using gel icing.
- Add plastic or edible spiders and bats for a creepy touch.
- Use purple and black frosting for a bold, spooky vibe.
- Color Palette:
- Purple, black, orange, and green scream Halloween!
- Toppings:
- Sprinkle with purple and black sugar crystals or top with mini marshmallow “ghosts.”
6. Christmas: Festive & Sparkly
Deck the cake with holiday cheer for your Christmas celebrations.
- Decorations:
- Create a Christmas wreath design on top using green frosting and edible red berry decorations.
- Use a dusting of gold or silver edible glitter for a magical holiday feel.
- Color Palette:
- Combine purple with classic holiday colors like red, green, and gold.
- Toppings:
- Garnish with mini candy canes, sugared cranberries, or white chocolate curls.
By tailoring your Purple Velvet Cake decorations to the season, you can create a dessert that not only tastes delicious but also looks like a masterpiece.
If you have a specific theme or holiday in mind, let me know – I’d be happy to help brainstorm ideas!
Perfect Pairings for Purple Velvet Cake
The rich and vibrant flavors of Purple Velvet Cake deserve equally delightful accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it at a casual gathering or a formal event, these perfect pairings will elevate the experience for your guests.
1. Beverages to Sip Alongside
Pair your cake with drinks that complement its sweet, tangy flavor and rich frosting:
- Tea: A classic pairing. Opt for Earl Grey, lavender tea, or green tea for a light, floral contrast.
- Coffee: A latte or cappuccino balances the cake’s sweetness with a creamy, slightly bitter edge.
- Wine: For an elegant affair, serve a chilled Riesling or a Moscato, as their fruity notes highlight the cake’s cocoa undertones.
- Mocktails: A refreshing blueberry spritzer or a blackberry lemonade complements the vibrant purple color and flavor profile.
- Milkshakes: Try a vanilla bean milkshake or a mixed berry milkshake for a playful, indulgent treat.
2. Ice Cream Toppings
Add a creamy, chilled element to balance the moist, dense texture of the cake:
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A classic choice that pairs with just about anything.
- Blackberry Sorbet: For a fruity and tangy contrast.
- Butter Pecan Ice Cream: Adds a nutty richness that enhances the cake’s subtle cocoa flavor.
- Purple Yam Ice Cream: Perfect for a thematic pairing, adding a unique flavor twist.
Want to serve something extra special? Pair this cake with a scoop of Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream for the ultimate indulgent treat!
3. Fresh Fruit Garnishes
Add a touch of freshness to your cake plate with seasonal fruits:
- Berries: Blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries bring a burst of tangy juiciness.
- Citrus Slices: Oranges or blood oranges add a refreshing zing that complements the richness of the cake.
- Grapes: Freeze some seedless purple grapes for a fun, chilled garnish.
4. Sauces and Syrups to Drizzle
Enhance each slice with a drizzle of one of these sauces for an extra layer of flavor:
- Keto Chocolate Sauce: Perfect for a low-carb option, check out our Keto Chocolate Sauce Recipe for an indulgent yet healthy pairing.
- Berry Coulis: A simple blend of puréed berries and a touch of sweetener adds a tangy contrast.
- Vanilla Cream Sauce: Drizzle over the cake for extra decadence.
- Caramel Sauce: Adds a buttery, slightly salty contrast to the tangy frosting.
For a fruity twist, drizzle this Fresh Strawberry Purée over a slice of Purple Velvet Cake. Its vibrant flavor pairs perfectly with the tangy cream cheese frosting!
5. Whipped Cream Add-Ons
Sometimes, a light dollop of whipped cream is all you need:
- Add a hint of vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle with a touch of cinnamon or purple sugar crystals for a decorative flair.
6. Savory Sides for Balance
For events with a full menu, consider adding a savory touch to balance the sweetness:
- Cheese Board: A selection of creamy brie, sharp cheddar, and goat cheese pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese frosting.
- Charcuterie: Include salty cured meats like prosciutto and salami to create a contrast.
- Savory Crackers: Add rosemary or parmesan crackers to serve alongside the cake for an unexpected twist.
7. Light Desserts to Serve Alongside
If you’re planning a dessert spread, include these lighter options for variety:
- Mini Berry Parfaits: Layers of yogurt, berries, and granola complement the cake’s richness.
- Lemon Bars: Their zesty flavor is a refreshing counterpoint to the creamy frosting.
- Dark Chocolate Bark: Topped with dried fruits or nuts, this provides a crunchy, bittersweet addition.
Pairing Purple Velvet Cake with these accompaniments ensures a well-rounded, unforgettable dessert experience. From drinks to toppings and side dishes, there’s something to suit every taste and occasion. Let us know in the comments what your favorite pairing is!
FAQ: All About Purple Velvet Cake
Q: What flavor is Purple Velvet Cake?
A: Purple Velvet Cake has a similar flavor profile to Red Velvet Cake – a delicate blend of vanilla and a hint of cocoa, paired with the tanginess of buttermilk. It’s moist, rich, and perfectly complemented by the creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese frosting.
Q: Is Purple Velvet the same as Red Velvet?
A: They’re very similar, but the key difference lies in the color. Purple Velvet Cake uses purple food coloring instead of the traditional red, giving it a bold and unique twist while maintaining the same moist texture and flavor of a classic Red Velvet Cake.
Q: How can I turn Red Velvet Cake purple?
A: To make a Red Velvet Cake purple, simply replace the red food coloring with purple gel food coloring. If you’re feeling creative, you can mix red and blue gel food coloring to create a custom shade of purple. Just make sure to add the color gradually until you reach the desired tone.
Q: What’s the difference between a velvet cake and a regular cake?
A: The magic of a velvet cake lies in its texture. Unlike regular cakes, velvet cakes are made with buttermilk and vinegar, which react with baking soda to create a soft, tender, and moist crumb. The small amount of cocoa in the batter also adds a subtle depth of flavor that sets it apart.
Recommended Products
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Here are three kitchen tools that would be perfect for making your Purple Velvet Cake,
- 8-Inch Round Cake Pans (Set of 2)
- Ensure your cake layers bake evenly with high-quality, non-stick pans. Perfect for all your baking adventures!
- Buy on Amazon
- Offset Spatula for Frosting
- This handy tool makes spreading frosting smooth and professional-looking. A must-have for cake decorating!
- Buy on Amazon
- Gel Food Coloring Set
- Achieve the perfect, vibrant purple hue with a professional-grade gel food coloring set. Long-lasting and highly pigmented!
- Buy on Amazon
Purple Velvet Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 Slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Purple Velvet Cake Is made with a hint of cocoa, a tangy cream cheese frosting, and all the wow-factor you could want. You’ll love the fluffy texture, rich flavor, and how easy it is to customize.
Ingredients
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 tbsp cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 Âľ cups granulated sugar
1 cup buttermilk (or DIY: 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp white vinegar
1 tbsp purple gel food coloring
For the Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1: Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, buttermilk, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and vinegar. Whisk until smooth.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Stir in the purple food coloring until you achieve your desired shade. The batter should look bold and vibrant.
2: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake for 28–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
3: Make the Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until smooth.
Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk.
4: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
Add the second layer, then frost the entire cake. Smooth the sides or get creative with swirls!
Decorate with purple sprinkles, edible flowers, or a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Notes
For a unique color, mix a little red and blue gel coloring instead of using pre-made purple. Adjust the ratios for a warmer or cooler tone depending on the look you want!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Sweet tooth
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Americaine
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1Slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: purple Velvet Cake
Final Thoughts
This Purple Velvet Cake is more than just dessert – it’s a celebration! Whether it’s for a birthday or just because, this cake is sure to make any occasion unforgettable. Try it, share your photos, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy baking!
I love this cake
Eazy and delicious i ❤