There’s something undeniably special about a red velvet pound cake. Its vibrant red hue, velvety texture, and rich flavor make it a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this red velvet pound cake recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress.
What makes this recipe stand out? It’s the perfect balance of moist, tender crumb and a subtle cocoa flavor, topped with a creamy glaze that ties everything together. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with different toppings or mix-ins to suit your taste. Let’s dive into why this red velvet pound cake is a must-try and how you can make it at home.
Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Pound Cake Recipe
- Perfect Texture: This cake is dense yet moist, with a velvety crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Stunning Presentation: The deep red color makes it a centerpiece dessert for any occasion.
- Easy to Customize: Add cream cheese frosting, a drizzle of glaze, or even chocolate chips for extra flair.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s a dessert that never disappoints.
Quick Facts
Category | Details |
---|---|
Preparation Time | PT20M |
Cooking Time | PT1H |
Total Time | PT1H20M |
Type | Dessert |
Cuisine | American |
Recipe Yield | 10 servings |
Calories | Approximately 350 per serving |
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp red food coloring (gel-based for vibrant color)
- ½ tsp salt
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Decorations (Optional):
- Fresh berries (strawberries or raspberries)
- White chocolate shavings
- Sprinkles

Let’s Make It: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 10-inch bundt pan or loaf pan with butter and dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
- Mix in the vanilla extract and red food coloring until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Glaze
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Step 7: Decorate and Serve
- Add fresh berries, white chocolate shavings, or sprinkles for a festive touch.
- Slice and serve!
Conclusion
This red velvet pound cake recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the classic flavors of red velvet with the dense, moist texture of a pound cake. It’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings or mix-ins.
We’d love to hear how your cake turns out! Share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media with your creations. Don’t forget to check out our other dessert recipes for more sweet inspiration. Happy baking!

FAQs
1. How to make red velvet pound cake moist?
To ensure a moist cake, use buttermilk and avoid overbaking. Check for doneness with a toothpick—it should come out with a few crumbs but not wet.
2. Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?
Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
3. How long does red velvet pound cake last?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
4. Can I freeze red velvet pound cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
5. What can I use instead of red food coloring?
For a natural alternative, try beet juice or pomegranate juice, though the color may be less vibrant.
Wrapping It Up
There you have it—a foolproof red velvet pound cake recipe that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to delight. Don’t forget to share your results and let us know how it turned out. Happy baking!