As I wandered through the vibrant streets of Mumbai, the air was thick with the scent of spices and the sound of bustling markets. One evening, I stumbled upon a charming little bakery that served an intriguing twist on the classic red velvet cake. Intrigued by its rich color and unique flavors, I knew I had to create my own version, merging the essence of India with this beloved dessert. This Exotic Red Velvet Cake with Spiced Coconut Cream Frosting is a fusion of velvety richness and the warmth of aromatic spices, guaranteed to take your palate on a delicious journey.

Ingredients

For the Red Velvet Cake:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
  • 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons red food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar

For the Spiced Coconut Cream Frosting:

  • 1 cup unsweetened coconut cream, chilled
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

To prepare the red velvet cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.

In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and vinegar until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the spiced coconut cream frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the chilled coconut cream until it becomes fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Continue to whip until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the spiced coconut cream frosting on top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.

For a final touch, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes and a light dusting of cocoa powder on top of the cake for added texture and visual appeal.

This Exotic Red Velvet Cake not only looks stunning but also offers a delightful combination of flavors that will leave your guests enchanted. Enjoy each slice as you let the spices dance on your palate, taking you back to the vibrant streets of Mumbai!