Red Velvet Bundt Cake

Welcome to a world where indulgence meets conscious living! This Red Velvet Bundt Cake offers a velvety crumb and a striking crimson hue that captivates every eye. I designed this recipe to be plant-based while maintaining that classic, tangy richness.

This Red Velvet Bundt Cake balances cocoa notes with luscious vanilla. Get ready for a delicious centerpiece.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Bundt Cake

• Vibrant Fusion: Experience a perfect marriage of deep cocoa and tangy plant-based buttermilk.
• Effortless Elegance: The Bundt shape provides a sophisticated look with very little decorating effort.
• Earth-Friendly: We use sustainable, plant-powered ingredients that reduce your environmental footprint.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This cake delivers a moist, tender texture that satisfies both vegans and omnivores alike.

Everyone loves a dessert that tells a story. This Red Velvet Bundt Cake speaks of tradition, yet it embraces the future of sustainable baking. By choosing plant-based alternatives, you contribute to a healthier planet without sacrificing the nostalgic flavors of your childhood. Furthermore, the striking color makes it the ultimate conversation starter at any dinner party.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Red Velvet Bundt Cake

Selecting high-quality ingredients ensures your Red Velvet Bundt Cake reaches its full potential. I always recommend organic flour and fair-trade cocoa powder to support ethical farming practices. For the vibrant red color, you can choose between a high-quality food gel or a natural concentrated beet juice reduction for a zero-waste approach.

Substitutions & Variations

You can easily adapt this Red Velvet Bundt Cake to suit your dietary needs or pantry availability. If you prefer a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. For a more natural approach to color, use two tablespoons of beetroot powder instead of liquid dye.

This swap adds a subtle earthy note that pairs beautifully with the cocoa. Additionally, you can replace the cane sugar with coconut sugar for a lower-glycemic alternative, though the color may appear slightly darker. If you want to boost the nutritional profile, substitute half of the oil with mashed avocado for healthy fats. These changes keep your Red Velvet Bundt Cake exciting and tailored to your lifestyle.

If you’re looking for more delicious cake options that can be adapted to your dietary needs, check out our recipe for Layered Strawberry Cake.

Equipment You’ll Need

Creating a professional-looking Red Velvet Bundt Cake requires the right tools. Most importantly, you need a high-quality 10-cup or 12-cup Bundt pan. I prefer heavy-duty cast aluminum pans because they distribute heat evenly and prevent hot spots. You will also need:

• Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the dry ingredients.
• Medium Mixing Bowl: For whisking the wet components.
• Electric Hand Mixer: To ensure a smooth, aerated batter.
• Silicone Spatula: Perfect for scraping every bit of batter from the bowl.
• Wire Cooling Rack: Essential for proper airflow while the cake cools.
• Pastry Brush: To grease every nook and cranny of the Bundt pan.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Red Velvet Bundt Cake

1. Preheat and Prepare: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your Bundt pan thoroughly using a vegan butter or oil, then dust it lightly with cocoa powder to ensure easy release.
2. Curdle the Milk: Combine the plant-based milk with one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for ten minutes to create a thick, tangy buttermilk.
3. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In your large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Sifting prevents lumps and ensures an airy Red Velvet Bundt Cake.
4. Cream the Wet Ingredients: In the medium bowl, beat the sugar, oil, apple sauce, and vanilla extract until the mixture looks pale and fluffy.
5. Add the Color: Stir the red coloring into the wet mixture. If you use beet juice, ensure it is highly concentrated to maintain the Red Velvet Bundt Cake vibrancy.
6. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the homemade buttermilk. Mix until just combined; do not overwork the batter.
7. The Final Reaction: Quickly fold in the remaining tablespoon of vinegar. This step creates a chemical reaction with the baking soda, giving your Red Velvet Bundt Cake its characteristic lift.
8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool Properly: Allow the Red Velvet Bundt Cake to rest in the pan for exactly 10 minutes. This time allows the structure to set before you invert it onto a wire rack.
10. Glaze: Once completely cool, drizzle with a simple vegan cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar.

For another festive cake option to impress your guests, be sure to try our Red Velvet Heart Cake, which features the same beloved flavors in a charming heart shape.

Pro Tips for Success

Mastering the Red Velvet Bundt Cake involves understanding the science of the ingredients. First, always ensure your ingredients remain at room temperature. This practice allows the fats and liquids to emulsify perfectly, resulting in a superior texture.

Second, do not over-grease your pan with liquid oil, as it can pool in the crevices. Instead, use a solid fat like coconut oil or vegan shortening mixed with a little flour.

Furthermore, the cocoa powder plays a vital role. Using non-alkalized cocoa powder (natural cocoa) reacts better with the vinegar and baking soda, enhancing the red color naturally. If you use Dutch-processed cocoa, the cake might turn out a darker, brownish-maroon.

Finally, avoid opening the oven door during the first 30 minutes of baking. Sudden temperature shifts can cause your Red Velvet Bundt Cake to sink in the middle.

Storage & Reheating Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Red Velvet Bundt Cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you have applied a cream cheese frosting, move it to the refrigerator immediately. In the fridge, the cake stays delicious for up to five days. To prevent the crumb from drying out, place a piece of parchment paper directly against the sliced surface.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the Red Velvet Bundt Cake. Wrap individual slices in compostable beeswax wrap or plastic-free alternatives and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months.

When you are ready to enjoy a slice, let it thaw at room temperature for an hour. If you prefer a warm dessert, microwave a slice for 15 seconds to restore that “just-baked” softness.

If you enjoy the luxurious taste of red velvet in other forms, you’ll love our delightful Red Velvet Donuts, perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.

What to Serve With This Red Velvet Bundt Cake

While this Red Velvet Bundt Cake is a star on its own, pairing it with the right sides elevates the experience. Since the cake is rich and sweet, I love serving it alongside a vibrant berry compote. The acidity of raspberries or blackberries cuts through the sweetness beautifully. For a cozy afternoon fika, pair a slice with a hot oat milk latte or a floral hibiscus tea.

If you are serving this at a brunch, consider a side of fresh seasonal fruit salad seasoned with mint. For a more decadent dessert platter, add a scoop of vanilla bean coconut ice cream. The contrast between the cold ice cream and the room-temperature Red Velvet Bundt Cake creates a sensory delight. Remember to choose organic, local fruits whenever possible to stay true to our eco-responsible values.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this Red Velvet Bundt Cake truly vegan?

Yes, this recipe is 100% plant-based. We use apple sauce as an egg replacer and plant-based buttermilk to achieve the perfect texture. No animal products are required to make this stunning Red Velvet Bundt Cake.

How do I prevent my Red Velvet Bundt Cake from sticking to the pan?

The secret lies in the preparation. Use a pastry brush to coat every detail of the pan with a mixture of melted vegan butter and flour. Additionally, letting the Red Velvet Bundt Cake cool for exactly ten minutes before inverting is crucial for a clean release.

Can I make this Red Velvet Bundt Cake without food coloring?

Absolutely! While it won’t have the bright neon red of commercial cakes, you can use cocoa powder and a touch of acid to achieve a traditional “mahogany” red. Alternatively, concentrated beet juice provides a beautiful, natural earth-toned crimson to your Red Velvet Bundt Cake.

Red Velvet Bundt Cake is a charming variation of the classic red velvet cake, known for its rich flavor and striking appearance. This dessert has deep roots in Southern baking traditions, evolving over time to capture the hearts of cake lovers everywhere. Learn more about it here.

Final Thoughts

This Red Velvet Bundt Cake represents more than just a dessert; it symbolizes a commitment to vibrant, sustainable living without sacrificing flavor. Share this masterpiece with loved ones and savor every compassionate bite. It is truly the ultimate centerpiece for your happy celebration!

Nutrition Information (per serving)

This Red Velvet Bundt Cake provides a balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats. Below is the approximate nutritional breakdown for one slice, based on a 12-serving yield.

Red Velvet Bundt Cake

This Red Velvet Bundt Cake offers a velvety crumb and a striking crimson hue that captivates every eye. Designed to be plant-based while maintaining that classic, tangy richness, this cake balances cocoa notes with luscious vanilla, making it a delicious centerpiece.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 Cups All-Purpose Flour
• 2 Tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 1.5 Cups Cane Sugar
• 1.5 Cups Plant-Based Buttermilk
• 3/4 Cup Vegetable Oil
• 1/2 Cup Apple Sauce
• 2 Teaspoons Vanilla Extract
• 1-2 Tablespoons Red Food Coloring
• 1 Teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1 Tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your Bundt pan and dust it with cocoa powder.
2. Combine the plant-based milk with one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and let it sit for ten minutes.
3. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
4. In a medium bowl, beat the sugar, oil, apple sauce, and vanilla extract until pale and fluffy.
5. Stir the red coloring into the wet mixture.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in the remaining tablespoon of vinegar quickly.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 to 55 minutes.
9. Allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, drizzle with vegan cream cheese frosting or dust with powdered sugar.

Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Use a solid fat to grease the pan and avoid opening the oven door during the first 30 minutes.