If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, this Purple Velvet Cake recipe is the perfect choice. With its rich, moist crumb and vibrant purple hue, this cake is a showstopper that’s sure to impress at birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and customizable to suit your taste. Plus, it’s made with simple, everyday ingredients that are easy to find in any USA grocery store.
What makes this cake stand out? It’s not just the stunning color—it’s the perfect balance of flavors. The subtle cocoa taste pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. And the best part? You can easily adapt this recipe to fit dietary preferences or add your own creative twist. Let’s dive in and create a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Table of Contents
Purple Velvet Cake Recipe: A Stunning Spring Dessert to Wow Your Guests

Why You’ll Love This Purple Velvet Cake Recipe
- Eye-catching and unique: The vibrant purple color makes this cake a centerpiece at any event.
- Moist and flavorful: The perfect balance of cocoa and buttermilk ensures a tender, delicious crumb.
- Easy to customize: Swap the frosting, add sprinkles, or adjust the color to match your theme.
- Perfect for celebrations: Ideal for birthdays, baby showers, or even Halloween parties.
Quick Facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Preparation Time | PT20M |
Cooking Time | PT30M |
Total Time | PT50M |
Type | Dessert |
Cuisine | American |
Recipe Yield | 12 servings |
Calories | Approximately 350 per serving |
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this stunning Purple Velvet Cake recipe:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (300g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (alcohol-free)
- 1 tbsp purple gel food coloring
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (alcohol-free)
- 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)

Let’s Make It: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Add the purple gel food coloring and mix until the color is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud.
- Add the vanilla extract and milk as needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate with sprinkles, edible glitter, or fresh berries if desired.
Conclusion
This Purple Velvet Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration on a plate! With its stunning color, moist texture, and irresistible flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
We’d love to hear how your cake turned out! Share your creations with us on social media or leave a comment below. And if you’re looking for more delicious dessert ideas, be sure to check out our other recipes. Happy baking!

FAQs
1. Can I use natural food coloring instead of gel?
Yes, you can use natural food coloring, but the color may not be as vibrant. Beetroot powder or purple sweet potato powder are great options.
2. How do I store this cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake layers in advance and freeze them for up to a month. Thaw before frosting and assembling.
4. Can I substitute buttermilk?
Yes, you can make a buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tbsp of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
5. How can I make the frosting less sweet?
Reduce the powdered sugar to 3 cups and add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it—a Purple Velvet Cake recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to brighten up your day, this cake is the perfect choice. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dessert that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!