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St. Patrick's Day green velvet cake topped with cream cheese frosting

St. Patrick’s Day Green Velvet Cake

This festive green velvet cake is a perfect centerpiece for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, featuring layers of moist cake and luscious cream cheese frosting.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Cake, Dessert
Cuisine American, Irish
Servings 12 servings
Calories 380 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the cake

  • 2.5 cups all-purpose flour Provides the tender crumb that creates the cake’s rich texture.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Adds leavening power for a light and fluffy cake.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Works in tandem with baking soda for perfect rising.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavor of the cake.
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar Sweetens the cake to perfection.
  • 1.5 cups vegetable oil Keeps the cake moist and decadent.
  • 3 large eggs Room temperature eggs help achieve the right texture.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Infuses the cake with warmth and sweetness.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Adds a tangy richness to the cake.
  • 1 tablespoon green food coloring Gives the cake its signature shade.

For the cream cheese frosting

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Creates a creamy, indulgent frosting.
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened Adds richness and smoothness to the frosting.
  • 4 cups powdered sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting to a perfect consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Elevates the frosting with a touch of flavor.
  • a pinch salt Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and vegetable oil, beating until smooth.
  • Add the eggs one by one, stirring well after each addition.
  • Blend in the vanilla extract.

Combining Ingredients

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and finishing with the flour mixture.
  • Add the green food coloring and mix until evenly distributed.

Baking

  • Divide the cake batter between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making Frosting

  • Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
  • Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fluffy, then stir in the vanilla extract and pinch of salt.

Assembling the Cake

  • Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of the first cake layer.
  • Place the second cake on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
  • Decorate with green sprinkles, shamrock decorations, or edible glitter.

Notes

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results. Alternate between dry ingredients and buttermilk for a smooth batter.
Keyword Cream Cheese Frosting, Dessert Cake, Festive Cake, Green Velvet Cake, St. Patrick's Day