Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is a show-stopping dessert perfect for any occasion. This rich and moist cake features the classic flavors of red velvet, complemented by a luscious cream cheese glaze. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake will impress everyone at the table. Its vibrant color and delightful taste make it a favorite among dessert lovers.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- Optional Cream Cheese Glaze:
- How to Make Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Step 4: Cool the Cake
- Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional)
- How to Serve Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
- With Fresh Berries
- A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- As Part of a Dessert Platter
- How to Perfect Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
- Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
- Reheating Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I achieve the best color for my Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze?
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- What can I use instead of buttermilk?
- How long should I bake my Red Velvet Pound Cake?
- Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of cocoa powder and red food coloring creates a unique taste that stands out.
- Moist Texture: The buttermilk ensures each slice is soft and moist, making every bite irresistible.
- Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just because—this cake fits any celebration!
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve success.
- Gorgeous Presentation: The striking red color topped with a creamy glaze makes for an eye-catching dessert.
Tools and Preparation
To create the Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze, you’ll need some essential tools that will help ease the baking process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan or tube pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Sifter
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan or tube pan: This special shape helps the cake bake evenly while creating beautiful presentation.
- Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, resulting in a light and fluffy batter.

Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp distilled white vinegar
- 2 cups cake flour, sifted
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 oz (2 tbsp) red food coloring, liquid or gel
Optional Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Generously grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan or tube pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 5-6 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in vanilla extract and distilled white vinegar.
- In another bowl, sift together cake flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a small bowl or cup, combine buttermilk with red food coloring until blended.
- Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and red buttermilk mixture into the batter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan. Gently tap it on the counter to release air bubbles. Bake for 75-85 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Start checking at around 70 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Step 4: Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional)
- Beat softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing.
- Slowly incorporate milk until you reach your desired consistency for drizzling.
- Stir in vanilla extract before drizzling it over your cooled cake.
Enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze!
How to Serve Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
Serving your Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze can elevate any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual afternoon treat, these serving suggestions will impress your guests.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve slices of the cake with a mix of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla or cream cheese ice cream to add a creamy texture and enhance the dessert experience.
Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce
- Add an extra layer of indulgence by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cake before serving. This complements the cocoa in the pound cake beautifully.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds lightness and balances the richness of the cake and glaze.
As Part of a Dessert Platter
- Serve slices alongside other desserts like brownies or lemon bars for a delightful variety that caters to different tastes.
How to Perfect Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
Perfecting your Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze requires some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success:
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour and cocoa powder helps eliminate lumps, creating a smoother batter that results in a tender cake.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined after adding dry ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing can make it dense.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm accurate temperatures since incorrect settings can lead to uneven baking.
Cool Properly: Let the cake cool in the pan for just 15 minutes before turning it out. Cooling too long can cause it to stick.
Best Side Dishes for Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
Complementing your Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal or gathering. Here are some great options:
Fruit Salad
A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweet flavors of the cake.Cheese Platter
Various cheeses, such as creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, provide savory notes that contrast nicely with the sweetness of the dessert.Chocolate-Covered Strawberries
These elegant treats offer another layer of chocolate flavor while enhancing presentation.Savory Nuts
A bowl of spiced nuts gives guests something crunchy and salty to enjoy alongside their sweet treat.Miniature Cheesecakes
Individual-sized cheesecakes can be a perfect companion, offering another rich dessert option for guests.Coffee or Tea Service
Serving coffee or tea allows guests to sip alongside their dessert, enhancing flavors and providing warmth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking a Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
- Skipping the Sifting Step: Sifting flour and cocoa powder helps aerate them. This step ensures your cake will rise properly and have a light crumb.
- Ignoring the Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your cake bakes evenly and doesn’t burn.
- Not Letting the Cake Cool Completely: Cutting into a warm cake can result in crumbling. Allow it to cool fully on a wire rack before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the cooled cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and wrap the cake in foil for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use medium power for 15-20 seconds per slice, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I achieve the best color for my Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze?
Using high-quality red food coloring will enhance your cake’s color. Gel food coloring is recommended for vibrant results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can create a buttermilk substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How long should I bake my Red Velvet Pound Cake?
Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 75-85 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Check around the 70-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking for added flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Its moist texture and rich flavor make it perfect for any occasion. Experiment by adding different flavors or toppings, such as nuts or fruit, to customize it to your taste!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the vibrant and delicious Red Velvet Pound Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze, a dessert that dazzles both the eyes and the palate. This elegant cake combines rich cocoa flavor with a striking red hue, creating a visually stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Each slice is perfectly moist thanks to buttermilk, while the optional cream cheese glaze adds a delightful sweetness that enhances the overall experience. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, holiday, or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp distilled white vinegar
- 2 cups cake flour, sifted
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 oz (2 tbsp) red food coloring, liquid or gel
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened (for optional glaze)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for optional glaze)
- 2–3 tbsp milk or heavy cream (for optional glaze)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for optional glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 12-cup bundt pan.
- Cream softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 5-6 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in vanilla extract and distilled white vinegar.
- In another bowl, sift together cake flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a small bowl or cup, combine buttermilk with red food coloring until blended.
- Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and red buttermilk mixture into the batter, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan. Gently tap it on the counter to release air bubbles.
- Bake for 75-85 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the optional cream cheese glaze, beat softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing.
- Slowly incorporate milk until you reach your desired consistency for drizzling.
- Stir in vanilla extract before drizzling it over your cooled cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 80 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 95mg





