The Royal Purple Velvet Cake is a striking twist on the classic red velvet, offering a rich, velvety texture and a vibrant purple hue. Infused with a subtle cocoa flavor and complemented by a tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake is both visually stunning and delicious. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a decadent dessert, this cake is sure to impress. Its moist layers and creamy frosting create a delightful contrast, making each bite a memorable experience.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 3 cups fine all-purpose flour
  
  

• 1 cup granulated sugar
  
  

• 1⅓ cups buttermilk, at room temperature
  
  

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  
  

• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
  
  

• 2 heaping tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
  
  

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  
  

• A dash of purple liquid food coloring (adjust to desired shade)
  
  

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
  
  

• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  
  

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  
  

• 8 oz unsalted butter, softened
  
  

• 2 cups powdered sugar
  
  

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  
  

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
   
   

2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and cocoa powder.
   
   

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
   
   

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
   
   

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
   
   

6. Add Food Coloring: Stir in the purple food coloring until the desired shade is achieved.
   
   

7. Incorporate Baking Soda and Vinegar: In a small bowl, mix the baking soda and white vinegar. Fold this mixture into the batter.
   
   

8. 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.
   
   

9. Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
   
   

10. Prepare the Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
    
    

11. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
    
    

12. Decorate: Optional: Garnish with edible flowers, sprinkles, or other decorations of your choice.
    
    

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal
  
  

• Total Fat: 24g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 14g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 65mg
  
  

• Sodium: 200mg
  
  

• Total Carbohydrates: 60g
  
  

• Dietary Fiber: 1g
  
  

• Sugars: 45g
  
  

• Protein: 3g