Description
A stunning red velvet cake shaped like a Christmas tree, layered with tangy cream cheese frosting for a festive dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2–3 8-inch round red velvet cake layers
- 1/2 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, room temperature
- 3–4 cups (360–480 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–1½ tbsp gel food coloring
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/3–1/2 cup cream cheese frosting (for layer filling)
- Edible pearls (for decoration)
- Sprinkles (for decoration)
- Dairy-free alternative (optional)
- Gluten-free flour blend (optional)
Instructions
- Bake the red velvet cake layers at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely and level the layers.
- Stack layers with 1/3–1/2 inch of cream cheese frosting between each layer.
- Chill the stacked cake for 30–45 minutes.
- Trim the cake into a tree shape using a template.
- Apply a thin crumb coat around the cake.
- Chill again for at least 20 minutes.
- Pipe green buttercream “branches” using a star tip.
- Finish decoration with edible pearls and other toppings as desired.
Notes
For best results, use room-temperature ingredients and measure flour correctly. Chill between steps to ensure neat piping and prevent frosting slippage.
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American