What is Blue Velvet Cake?

Blue Velvet Cake is a rich, moist layer cake known for its eye-catching deep blue hue and smooth, velvety texture. It typically features a subtle cocoa flavor and is often paired with cream cheese frosting. The blue coloring makes it a standout at birthdays, gender reveals, and themed celebrations.

What's the Difference Between Red Velvet and Blue Velvet Cake?

While both cakes share a similar base—made with buttermilk, vinegar, and a hint of cocoa—the primary difference is the color . Red velvet uses red food coloring, while blue velvet uses blue, often with a few drops of violet to deepen the shade. The taste and texture remain nearly identical.

What is the Difference Between Red and Blue Velvet?

Besides color, the difference lies in the visual appeal and occasion . Red velvet is romantic and classic, often tied to Valentine’s Day or weddings. Blue velvet, however, offers a cool, modern vibe—perfect for baby showers, birthday parties, or even patriotic events when combined with white frosting and red accents.

Is Blue Velvet a Flavor?

Technically, no— blue velvet is not a unique flavor . It shares the same mild chocolate flavor and soft crumb texture as red velvet. The term “blue velvet” refers to the vibrant color twist on the classic recipe rather than a new flavor profile. Don’t miss our post on velvet cake myths and facts.

Blue Velvet Cake – The Best 2025 Recipe You’ll Ever Bake

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (sifted)

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)

1 cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs (room temperature)

1 tablespoon white vinegar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)

1–2 teaspoons blue gel food coloring

Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

3 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for smoothness)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line with parchment paper.
In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another large bowl, beat sugar, oil, and eggs until fluffy. Add buttermilk, vanilla, vinegar, and almond extract if using.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture and mix just until combined.
Stir in blue food coloring, adjusting to achieve your desired shade.
Pour batter evenly into pans. Tap to remove bubbles.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, beating until fluffy. Stir in vanilla and cream for a silky finish.
Frost the cooled cakes and decorate as desired.

Notes

For a vivid hue, always use gel food coloring instead of liquid.
To make cupcakes, fill liners ⅔ full and bake for 18–20 minutes.
Store leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Always bring cold ingredients to room temperature for a smoother batter and even baking.

Author: Maya Bake
Prep Time: PT30M
Cook Time: PT30M
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 430
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 320mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 54g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition

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