Decadent Red Velvet Pound Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Glaze – Irresistibly Moist and Flavorful

Few desserts have the allure of a classic red velvet cake, and when transformed into a pound cake, it becomes a true showstopper. This Red Velvet Pound Cake delivers that iconic rich, velvety texture with a moist, dense crumb that melts in your mouth. Topped with a smooth cream cheese glaze, this cake is the perfect balance of sweetness with a slight tang from the cream cheese, making each bite unforgettable.

Photo byRecipe Smooth

This recipe became a staple in my kitchen thanks to the incredible Recipe Smooth Facebook Group community, where talented bakers share their mouth-watering ideas. Inspired by their expertise, I’m excited to share this Red Velvet Pound Cake recipe with you—so you can bring this beautiful, decadent dessert to your table too. Visit Recipe Smooth on Facebook for more dessert inspirations and join the community!

Red Velvet Cake Origins

Red velvet cake is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century and quickly became a Southern favorite, particularly known for its unique color and flavor. Originally a reaction from combining cocoa powder with acidic ingredients, the red hue has become iconic, with modern recipes often using food coloring to enhance its vibrant appearance. Transforming this classic into a pound cake elevates its richness, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet comforting.

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Pound Cake:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp red food coloring
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp white vinegar

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk (adjust for desired consistency)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a standard loaf pan, ensuring your cake will release easily after baking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take a few minutes with a mixer on medium speed.
3. Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps create a smooth, even texture in the cake.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution and a soft, fine texture.
5. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, red food coloring, and vanilla extract. This creates a beautiful, vibrant color.
6. Alternate Mixing Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry and wet ingredients to the butter mixture in three stages, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense.
7. Add Vinegar: Stir in the white vinegar, which reacts with the baking soda for a light texture and enhances the cake’s distinctive flavor.
8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool the cake completely before glazing.
9. Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze: In a bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Adjust the milk for a thicker or thinner glaze based on your preference.
10. Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it cascade down the sides. Slice and enjoy this delicious cake as the flavors meld perfectly with each bite.

Tips for the Perfect Red Velvet Pound Cake

• Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: This can make a difference in the depth of flavor. While the cocoa flavor in red velvet is subtle, it adds to the overall richness.
• Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup of milk with ½ tbsp of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
• Glaze Options: For extra flair, sprinkle the glaze with a touch of finely crushed nuts or a dusting of cocoa powder.

Pair this delightful Red Velvet Pound Cake with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk, and you’ve got a dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether for a festive gathering or a cozy night in, this cake brings warmth, flavor, and a little indulgence to the table.

Try It Out!

Give this Red Velvet Pound Cake a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below! If you loved it, don’t forget to share the recipe and follow me for more delicious ideas. For a steady stream of inspiration, join us on Recipe Smooth on Facebook to see what other talented home cooks are whipping up.