Instructions:
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans, then dust them with flour and line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, chilled buttermilk, eggs, purple food coloring, distilled white vinegar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Step 5
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Step 6
Place the cake pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
Step 7
Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8
Once the cakes are completely cooled, you can assemble and frost them as desired. Consider using cream cheese frosting for a classic pairing with the velvet cake, or get creative with your favorite frosting flavors.
Step 9
Slice, serve, and enjoy your decadent Purple Velvet Cake with friends and family!