Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, unsweetened
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- Pink food coloring, gel or liquid
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cake batter.
- Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them lightly with vegetable oil or butter, then dusting them with flour.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix together 1 cup vegetable oil and 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Add 1 cup buttermilk followed by several drops of pink food coloring.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Mix just until no dry pockets remain—overmixing can lead to tough cake!
- Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and smooth out the tops.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While cakes cool completely on wire racks, whip up your frosting by beating together 8 ounces cream cheese and ½ cup unsalted butter until creamy.
- Gradually add in about 4 cups powdered sugar along with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fluffy.
- Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate.
- Spread frosting on top before gently placing the second layer on top.
- Frost the top and sides generously—don’t be shy!
- Garnish with sprinkles or fresh berries if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Reheat slices in the microwave briefly.
Serve with whipped cream topping.
Use gel food coloring for vibrancy.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Method: Bake
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg