Irresistibly Romantic Pink Velvet Cake Recipe for Valentine’s Day and Beyond

Looking to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious? This Pink Velvet Cake recipe is the ultimate romantic indulgence, perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, baby showers, or simply treating someone special. With its soft crumb, dreamy pink hue, and luscious frosting, this cake brings all the charm of a red velvet cake but with a fun, pastel twist. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy Valentine’s Day cake recipe will guide you to bakery-level results at home.

If you’ve enjoyed our cozy Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies or crowd-pleasing Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls, this pink velvet cake will be your new go-to dessert for special occasions.

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Why Pink Velvet Cake is the Perfect Valentine’s Day Cake Flavor

Pink Velvet Cake is known for its soft texture, subtle vanilla-cocoa flavor, and romantic appearance. It’s less intense than red velvet in color and flavor but still moist and tender thanks to classic ingredients like buttermilk, vinegar, and butter.

This cake is ideal for Valentine’s Day, baby showers, birthdays, or any time you want a beautiful centerpiece. The soft pink color gives a cheerful and charming vibe, while the rich taste satisfies everyone’s sweet cravings.

Plus, the pink hue can be adjusted to match your theme—go bold for a celebration or pastel for a delicate, elegant look. Try serving it alongside a light refreshment like our Cucumber Mint Agua Fresca to complete your occasion.

Ingredients for the Best Pink Velvet Cake Recipe

This recipe makes three 6-inch cake layers or two 8-inch layers. The ingredients are simple but essential for that soft, velvet-like crumb.

For the Pink Velvet Cake:

8 oz (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
14 oz (397 g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
13 oz (369 g) cake flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup (177 ml) buttermilk, room temperature
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp white vinegar
1 tsp pink gel food coloring
2 tbsp cocoa powder (optional, for depth)

For the Pink Velvet Cake Frosting (Ermine Style):

5 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
A drop of pink food coloring (optional)

This pink velvet frosting is light and creamy—not overly sweet—and pairs perfectly with the soft crumb of the cake. It’s a must-try if you usually find buttercream too rich.

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How to Make Pink Velvet Cake Step-by-Step

Follow these steps for perfect results every time. This cake uses the creaming method to create a fluffy, moist texture.

Preheat the oven to 335°F (170°C). Grease your cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cocoa powder if using. Sift for the fluffiest texture.

In a stand mixer, beat the softened butter until smooth, then slowly add the sugar. Beat on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Scrape the bowl often to ensure even mixing.

Add the vanilla extract, vinegar, and food coloring. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and increase until your desired shade of pink is achieved.

On low speed, alternate adding the flour mixture and the buttermilk in three additions, beginning and ending with flour. Mix only until combined to avoid overworking the batter.

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Smooth the tops and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. Cool completely before frosting.

Pink Velvet Cake Frosting Ideas: From Cream Cheese to Whipped Buttercream

Ermine frosting, also known as boiled milk frosting, is a classic pairing with velvet cakes. It’s smooth, not overly sweet, and very easy to work with.

To make it, whisk flour and milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens to a pudding-like texture. Let it cool completely.

In a mixer, beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Gradually add the cooled milk mixture a spoonful at a time. Beat until light and creamy. Add vanilla extract and a drop of pink coloring if desired.

You can also use cream cheese frosting or whipped vanilla buttercream for a different twist. For inspiration, check out our Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls topped with a tangy glaze.

Essential Tools for Baking Pink Velvet Cake at Home

Here’s everything you need for a successful baking experience:

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Cake pans (6-inch or 8-inch)
Mixing bowls
Rubber spatula
Offset spatula
Wire cooling racks
Parchment paper
Measuring cups and spoons
Fine mesh sifter

You’ll find these same tools useful in many of our favorite baked recipes, including Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl.

Tips for the Perfect Pink Velvet Cake Texture and Flavor

Always use room temperature ingredients. This helps the batter mix evenly and bake with a consistent texture.

Sift your dry ingredients. This makes the cake lighter and more delicate.

Use gel food coloring. Liquid color can alter the batter’s moisture content and result in uneven coloring.

Don’t skip the vinegar. It reacts with the baking powder to create the signature velvet texture.

Avoid overbaking. Start checking at 30 minutes and remove the cake as soon as a toothpick comes out clean.

Creative Pink Velvet Cake Ideas for Special Occasions

Pink velvet cake isn’t just for Valentine’s Day. Here are some fun ways to customize it:

Make it into cupcakes for easy portioning.
Create a heart-shaped layer cake using a heart pan.
Layer it with fresh strawberries or a strawberry compote.
Top with edible flowers or pink sprinkles.
Frost with ombré shades of pink for a stunning look.

Pair it with our Strawberry Cream Soda for a picture-perfect pink celebration.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pink Velvet Recipes

Avoid using liquid food coloring, which can throw off your ratios. Stick to gel or paste colorings.

Don’t substitute regular flour for cake flour unless necessary. Cake flour gives the softest crumb.

Make sure the butter is properly softened—too cold or too melted will affect the creaming step.

Let the cakes cool fully before frosting. Even a little warmth can melt your frosting and ruin the texture.

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Pink Velvet Cake Properly

Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

To freeze, wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

If serving from the fridge, allow slices to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before enjoying. You can also microwave slices for 10 seconds to soften them slightly.

Serving Suggestions and Valentine’s Day Cake Presentation Tips

Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry sauce.

Top with fresh raspberries, strawberries, or edible roses for a romantic touch.

Use heart-shaped cake toppers, or pipe pink rosettes around the edges with extra frosting.

Add it to a dessert table with Fruit Dip, Pumpkin Truffles, or Mini Apple Pies for variety.

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FAQs About How to Make Pink Velvet Cake

Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

What’s the difference between pink velvet and red velvet cake? Just the color. Pink velvet is often milder in flavor and visually softer.

Can I use natural coloring? Beetroot powder or freeze-dried strawberry powder are great natural options.

Can I make this as a sheet cake? Yes, pour into a 9×13 pan and adjust baking time as needed (around 35–40 minutes).

Does the cake need to be refrigerated? If using cream cheese or Ermine frosting, yes—store it in the fridge.

Final Thoughts: Share the Love with a Pink Velvet Cake

Pink Velvet Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a show-stopping centerpiece that brings joy to any celebration. Whether you’re baking for Valentine’s Day, a baby shower, or simply to brighten someone’s day, this cake is sure to impress.

Its moist crumb, delicate flavor, and dreamy frosting make it a favorite you’ll want to bake again and again. So go ahead—whip up some magic, share it with loved ones, and don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more heartwarming recipes like this.

If you loved this, be sure to check out our Mini Pumpkin Bread and Stuffed Acorn Squash for more cozy seasonal eats.

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