Classic Red Velvet Cake Recipe

INGREDIENTS 

• 1/2 cup shortening 
• 1-1/2 cups sugar 
• 2 eggs 
• 1 bottle (1 ounce) red food coloring 
• 3 teaspoons white vinegar 
• 1 teaspoon butter flavoring 
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 2-1/2 cups cake flour 
• 1/4 cup baking cocoa 
• 1 teaspoon baking soda 
• 1 teaspoon salt 
• 1 cup buttermilk 

 Frosting: 

• 12 ounces cream cheese, softened 
• 3/4 cup butter, softened 
• 5-2/3 cups confectioners' sugar 
• 4-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 

DIRECTIONS 

1. In a large bowl, cream shortening and sugar until light fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the food coloring, vinegar, butter flavoring and vanilla. Combine the flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beating well after each addition. 
2. Pour into three greased and floured 9-in. round baking pans. Bake at 350° for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely. 
3. In a large bowl, combine frosting ingredients; beat until smooth and creamy. Spread between layers and over top and sides of cake.