This **Hershey's Red Velvet Cocoa Cake recipe** is perfect for baking enthusiasts looking for a **moist, chocolatey, and vibrant red velvet cake**. Use **Hershey's Cocoa Powder** for the best results and pair it with a **homemade cream cheese frosting** for the ultimate dessert experience.
Steps
# How to Make a Hershey's Red Velvet Cocoa Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Indulge in the rich, velvety goodness of a **Hershey's Red Velvet Cocoa Cake** with this easy-to-follow recipe. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, this cake combines the classic flavors of red velvet with the deep, chocolatey taste of Hershey's cocoa. Follow these detailed steps to create a moist, decadent dessert that will impress your family and friends.
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## **Ingredients for Hershey's Red Velvet Cocoa Cake**
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
- **2 ½ cups all-purpose flour**
- **1 ½ cups granulated sugar**
- **1 tsp baking soda**
- **1 tsp salt**
- **1 tsp cocoa powder (Hershey's recommended)**
- **1 ½ cups vegetable oil**
- **1 cup buttermilk**
- **2 large eggs**
- **2 tbsp red food coloring**
- **1 tsp vanilla extract**
- **1 tsp white vinegar**
For the cream cheese frosting:
- **8 oz cream cheese (softened)**
- **½ cup unsalted butter (softened)**
- **4 cups powdered sugar**
- **1 tsp vanilla extract**
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Preheat and Prepare**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
### **Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients**
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together **2 ½ cups flour**, **1 ½ cups sugar**, **1 tsp baking soda**, **1 tsp salt**, and **1 tsp Hershey's cocoa powder**.
2. Ensure the dry ingredients are well combined to avoid lumps in the batter.
### **Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients**
1. In a separate bowl, mix **1 ½ cups vegetable oil**, **1 cup buttermilk**, **2 large eggs**, **2 tbsp red food coloring**, **1 tsp vanilla extract**, and **1 tsp white vinegar**.
2. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and evenly colored.
### **Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**
1. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy.
### **Step 5: Bake the Cake**
1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for **25-30 minutes** or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
### **Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting**
1. In a mixing bowl, beat **8 oz cream cheese** and **½ cup unsalted butter** until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add **4 cups powdered sugar** and **1 tsp vanilla extract**, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
### **Step 7: Assemble and Frost the Cake**
1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
2. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
3. For a decorative touch, use a piping bag to add swirls or patterns.
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## **Tips for the Perfect Hershey's Red Velvet Cocoa Cake**
- Use **Hershey's cocoa powder** for an authentic chocolate flavor.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- For a richer flavor, substitute buttermilk with sour cream or yogurt.
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## **Serving and Storage**
Serve your Hershey's Red Velvet Cocoa Cake at room temperature for the best texture. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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This **Hershey's Red Velvet Cocoa Cake** recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining the classic red velvet taste with the rich, chocolatey goodness of Hershey's cocoa. Follow these steps to create a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!
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