5-Star Red Velvet Tree Cake Recipe

The Red Velvet Tree Cake is a show-stopping dessert, perfect for adding a festive touch to your holiday celebrations. With its vibrant red hue, creamy frosting, and whimsical Christmas tree design, this cake combines aesthetics and taste to wow your guests. This guide provides a step-by-step process to create this delightful treat from scratch, ensuring it’s not just a feast for the eyes but also a culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients for Red Velvet Tree Cake

For the Cake

• 1 box red velvet cake mix
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs

For the Frosting

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Green food coloring

For Decoration

• Colorful sprinkles or edible glitter
• Mini candy canes or other small festive decorations (optional)

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
• Servings: 10–12
• Calories Per Serving: 350 kcal

Directions for Red Velvet Tree Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour a tree-shaped cake pan. If you don’t have a tree-shaped pan, use a regular round pan and plan to carve the tree shape after baking. Set the pan aside.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix and instant vanilla pudding mix.
• Add water, vegetable oil, and eggs.
• Beat the mixture on medium speed until it is smooth and all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

• Pour the prepared batter into your greased pan, ensuring an even distribution.
• Bake according to the package instructions, which typically takes 25–30 minutes.
• Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
• Let the cake cool completely before removing it from the pan.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

• In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until creamy and smooth.
• Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to mix.
• Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Add green food coloring, a few drops at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired shade of green.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate the Cake

• Once the cake is completely cooled, apply the green frosting evenly over the surface. Use a spatula to shape the frosting to resemble the layers of a Christmas tree.
• Decorate with colorful sprinkles, edible glitter, and mini candy canes to add a festive flair.

Tips for Perfect Red Velvet Tree Cake

Baking Tips

• Pan Preparation: Ensure your pan is well-greased to avoid the cake sticking. Use parchment paper for an additional layer of protection.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined to maintain the cake’s fluffy texture.

Frosting Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for a smoother frosting.
• Frosting Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to thin it out.

Decoration Ideas

• Use gold and silver sprinkles for a more elegant look.
• Add star-shaped candies at the top of the cake to mimic a Christmas tree topper.

Benefits of Making Red Velvet Tree Cake

1. Festive Appeal: This cake adds a touch of holiday magic to your dessert table.
2. Easy to Customize: You can tweak the decorations to suit your theme.
3. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of red velvet and cream cheese frosting is universally loved.
4. Fun Activity: Decorating the cake can be a fun activity to involve kids or family members.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this Red Velvet Tree Cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Frost and decorate it on the day you plan to serve.

What can I use if I don’t have a tree-shaped pan?

Use a round or square pan and carve the tree shape using a sharp knife. Alternatively, you can bake cupcakes and arrange them in a tree shape.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze this Red Velvet Tree Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

The Red Velvet Tree Cake is a delightful centerpiece for your holiday celebrations. With its eye-catching design and mouthwatering flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with friends and family. Follow the steps in this guide to create a stunning dessert that brings joy and festivity to your holiday table. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced chef, this recipe offers the perfect opportunity to showcase your culinary creativity. Enjoy baking, decorating, and sharing this festive treat!