The Waldorf Astoria Red Velvet Cake is an iconic dessert, loved for its smooth, velvety crumb, hint of cocoa, and striking red color.
The combination of buttermilk, vinegar, and a touch of cocoa creates a perfectly balanced flavor that’s rich yet not overpowering.
If you’re a fan of this flavor combination, be sure to check out even more red velvet recipes that are just as fun to bake and enjoy!
This cake has been a favorite for generations, and it all started at the famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City.
With its rich red color, soft, velvety texture, and just the right hint of cocoa, it quickly became a go-to dessert.
Unlike modern versions with cream cheese frosting, the original recipe features ermine frosting—a smooth, buttery icing made from cooked flour and milk, that’s silky smooth and not too sweet.
How to Make the Original Waldorf Astoria Red Velvet Cake Recipe
You’ll need classic pantry staples
No buttermilk? No problem! Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Room temperature ingredients are key to help everything mix evenly and gives the best texture.
The frosting needs time to cool. After cooking the flour and milk mixture, let the cooked icing reach room temperature before whipping with butter—this makes it extra smooth.
Keep it covered at room temp for a day, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Just let it come to room temp before serving for the best texture.
Yes! Bake the layers a day ahead and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. You can even freeze them for up to 3 months — just thaw and frost when you’re ready.
Ready to bake like a pro? Try these recipes and tips to take your cake game to the next level and create delicious, show-stopping treats!
- If you’re looking for the Original Red Velvet Cake Recipe, this classic version has the perfect balance of cocoa, buttermilk, and a rich, velvety texture.
- Love a rich and decadent dessert recipe? You can never go wrong with a classic Chocolate Cake that’s moist, fudgy, and full of flavor.
- A dollop of homemade Whipped Cream is the perfect finishing touch for cakes, pies, and even your morning coffee!
- Having trouble with your cake? Grab our Baking Troubleshooting Guide to fix common issues like sinking centers and dry crumbs.
- Want to level up your decorating skills? Learn more about frosting cakes with this ebook packed with expert tips or our Cake Decorating Tips eBook, filled with techniques to make your cakes look bakery-worthy!
Original Waldorf Astoria Red Velvet Cake Recipe
Looking for the perfect dessert? The Waldorf Astoria Red Velvet Cake is a showstopper with smooth frosting and a rich, velvety texture!
Ingredients
Red Velvet Cake Recipe
- 1/2 cup Crisco shortening
- 2 oz red food coloring
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cup flour
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsbp vinegar
- 1 tsp baking soda
Ermine Frosting
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
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Cream shortening and sugar, add coloring, add eggs one at a time, beat well after each.
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Sift flour, salt and cocoa together three times.
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Add alternately with buttermilk. Then add vanilla and beat well.
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Dissolve baking soda in vinegar, use a cup as it will foam. Fold into cake batter. Do not Stir.
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Divide batter into two pans that are greased but not floured.
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Bake for 30 to 35 min. at 350 degrees and cool on a cooling rack.
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To make the icing, cook together 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 cup flour and 1 cup milk (add very slowly to prevent lumping).
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Cook until thick, and then cool.
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Cream together 1 cup shortening (Crisco), 1 cup sugar, beat until fluffy.
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Add cooled flour mixture with 2 teaspoons vanilla.
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Crumb coat the cake by spreading a thin layer of frosting and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes and then frost the whole cake with the creamy frosting.
Recipe Notes