Homemade Adams The Original Red Velvet 3-Layer Cake Mix Recipe: Moist, Flavorful, and Naturally Colored

Category: Cake Mix

Introduction

Adams The Original Red Velvet 3-Layer Cake Mix has long been a favorite among cake enthusiasts, cherished for its striking red hue and the perfect balance of cocoa and tangy cream cheese frosting. This iconic mix offers convenience and consistency, but making it at home allows for the use of fresh, natural ingredients, customization to suit various tastes, and the ability to enhance nutritional value. The homemade version captures the essence of the original while avoiding preservatives and artificial additives, making it a healthier and more flavorful choice.

Why Make It at Home?

Making your own red velvet cake mix at home provides several advantages. You can control the ingredients, reduce sugar content, and incorporate healthier options like whole wheat flour or less-processed sugars. It also allows for creativity, whether by adding different flavors or adjusting the intensity of the red color. Plus, homemade mixes are cost-effective and can be tailored to dietary needs such as gluten-free or vegan.

Personal Anecdote

I recall the first time I baked a red velvet cake from a mix; it was love at first bite. The vibrant color and moist texture were captivating. However, upon reading the ingredient list, I was determined to create a homemade version that maintained the same charm without the preservatives. After several trials, I perfected a recipe that not only matched the original in taste and appearance but also offered a healthier profile. It's now a staple in my kitchen, delighting family and friends with every slice.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:25 minutes
• **Cook Time:25 minutes per layer
• **Total Time:75 minutes
• **Yield:12 servings

Ingredients

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tsp (15g) baking powder
• 1 tsp (5g) salt
• 2 tbsp red food coloring (natural, if possible)

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp (15ml) white vinegar
• 1 tsp instant coffee powder (optional, for depth of flavor)

Frosting Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp (30ml) milk or heavy cream

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
• Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Add red food coloring and mix until evenly distributed.
• Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, oil, vanilla extract, vinegar, and coffee powder (if using).
• Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth. Avoid overmixing.
• Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Prepare Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk, mixing until creamy.
• Assemble Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate, spread frosting on top, and repeat with the remaining layers. Frost the outside and serve.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store cooled cake layers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Frosting can be refrigerated for up to a week; allow it to soften before use.
• Freezer: Wrap cake layers tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature.

Variations & Customization

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Less Sugar: Reduce granulated sugar to 1 1/2 cups and powdered sugar to 1 1/2 cups.
• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs, use vegan butter, and ensure chocolate is dairy-free.

Special Equipment

• 9-inch Round Cake Pans: For even baking.
• Electric Mixer: For smooth batter and frosting.
• Wire Rack: Essential for cooling.

Pro Tips

• Even Layers: Ensure batter is evenly divided for uniform baking.
• Natural Color: Use natural food coloring for a healthier option.
• Cooling: Proper cooling prevents cracking and ensures moistness.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Q: Can I use natural food coloring?

• A: Yes, beet juice or powder can replace artificial coloring.

• Q: How to fix too dense cake?

• A: Ensure not to overmix and use buttermilk for acidity.

• Q: Can I make it gluten-free?

• A: Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend.

• Q: How long does it last?

• A: Up to 3 days at room temperature, longer refrigerated.

• Q: Can I scale the recipe?

• A: Yes, adjust ingredients proportionally.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve with cream cheese frosting.
• Unique: Add nuts or chocolate shavings for texture.

Conclusion

This homemade red velvet cake recipe offers a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought mixes, capturing the original's charm with fresh ingredients. Share your creations and enjoy the delightful experience of baking from scratch.