Why You’ll Love this Blue Velvet Cake Recipe
When you take a bite of this Blue Velvet Cake, you’ll immediately understand why it’s a favorite at celebrations. The vibrant blue hue catches your eye, but it’s the rich, velvety texture that truly captivates your taste buds.
Each slice is moist, with a delicate hint of cocoa that perfectly complements the sweet cream cheese frosting. I love how the shredded coconut and crunchy pecans add a delightful contrast, enhancing every bite.
It’s not just a cake; it’s an experience that brings joy and nostalgia. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to share this masterpiece with everyone you know!
Ingredients of Blue Velvet Cake
When it comes to baking, having the right ingredients is key to whipping up something delicious, and that’s especially true for this Blue Velvet Cake. Not only is it a feast for the eyes with its stunning blue color, but it also delivers on taste with its moist texture and rich flavors.
Plus, the cream cheese frosting with coconut and pecans adds an extra layer of yumminess that you just can’t resist. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to create something that will wow your friends and family.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Blue Velvet Cake:
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 lb butter, at room temperature
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 2 ounces blue food coloring
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup butter, softened (for frosting)
- 1 cup melted marshmallows
- 1 lb confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Now, when it comes to these ingredients, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure your butter is at room temperature; it really makes a difference when you cream it with the sugar.
If you’re like me and sometimes forget to take it out ahead of time, just pop it in the microwave for a few seconds on low power. But be careful—melted butter won’t give you the same fluffy texture.
And don’t skimp on the blue food coloring; it’s what gives this cake its signature look. Also, if you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to swap them out for walnuts or leave them out altogether.
This cake is versatile, and that’s what makes it so fun to make. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and prepare to bake a masterpiece!
How to Make Blue Velvet Cake

Alright, let’s plunge into making this stunning Blue Velvet Cake! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Trust me, this step is like a warm-up for your cake—like stretching before a run.
While that’s heating up, grab your three (8-inch) round pans and give them a good greasing and flouring. This part is vital because nobody wants a cake that sticks to the pan like a stubborn roommate.
Now, onto the fun part: mixing! In a large mixing bowl, take 2 cups of sugar and 1/2 pound of butter (make sure it’s at room temperature, or else it’ll be the ultimate struggle to cream the two together) and beat them until they’re light and fluffy. I like to imagine I’m making clouds—fluffy, sweet clouds.
Once that’s done, add in 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Just think of it as a little eggy dance party in your bowl. Next, take 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and 2 ounces of blue food coloring, mix them together, and then add this vibrant concoction to your sugar and butter mixture. It’ll look like a painter’s palette—so colorful and delightful.
After that, sift together 2 1/2 cups of cake flour and 1 teaspoon of salt in another bowl. Now, it’s time to combine the dry and wet ingredients. Alternate adding the flour mixture and 1 cup of buttermilk into your creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour. This is where the magic starts to happen.
Don’t forget to add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that lovely aroma. Now, here comes the science part: in a small bowl, combine 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of vinegar. It’ll fizz up like a mini volcano—pretty cool, right? Stir that into your batter.
Once it’s all mixed, pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans and pop them in the oven for about 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once they’re baked, let them cool completely before moving on to the frosting.
For the frosting, mix 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup of softened butter until smooth. Add 1 cup of melted marshmallows and 1 pound of confectioners’ sugar, blending until it’s creamy and dreamy.
Finally, fold in 1 cup of shredded coconut and 1 cup of chopped pecans. Now, it’s time to layer and frost your cooled cake. Spread that luscious icing between the layers and on the top and sides of your cake.
Take a step back and admire your creation. You’ve just made a Blue Velvet Cake that’s bound to impress, even if you’d a few flour explosions along the way. Enjoy every bite!
Blue Velvet Cake Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to customize your Blue Velvet Cake, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can experiment with to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a gluten-free option, swap out the cake flour for a gluten-free blend. You can also replace buttermilk with almond milk or a dairy-free alternative if you’re lactose intolerant.
Want to get creative? Try adding lemon zest for a citrus twist or using cream cheese frosting infused with chocolate.
For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans. Each variation can give your cake a unique touch while keeping it delicious!
What to Serve with Blue Velvet Cake
While indulging in a slice of Blue Velvet Cake, I often think about the perfect accompaniments that can elevate the experience.
A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the cake’s richness beautifully. I also love pairing it with fresh berries, like strawberries or blueberries, which provide an invigorating contrast.
For a more decadent option, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of chocolate sauce can take it to the next level.
Each of these additions enhances the cake’s vibrant flavor and makes every bite unforgettable!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Blue Velvet Cake turns out perfectly every time, I recommend measuring your ingredients accurately and using room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter.
Don’t skip the vinegar and baking soda combination; it’s essential for that fluffy texture. If you like a sweeter cake, feel free to adjust the sugar slightly.
Also, consider chilling your cream cheese and butter frosting for easier spreading. When stacking the layers, make sure they’re completely cool to prevent slipping.
Finally, if you want a pop of flavor, adding a dash of almond extract can elevate your cake to new heights! Enjoy baking!