If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as simple as it is delightful, this Easy Red Velvet Cake with Hershey’s Hugs Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. Imagine a moist, luscious red velvet cake enhanced by the creamy softness of Cool Whip and accented by the charming presence of Hershey’s Hugs—those perfect swirls of white and milk chocolate that melt gently into every bite. This recipe brings together ease and elegance, allowing anyone to create a show-stopping treat with minimal effort but maximum flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a sweet weeknight indulgence, this cake is bound to wow with its beauty and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Easy Red Velvet Cake with Hershey’s Hugs Recipe is built on a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering the cake’s signature texture and taste. From the rich cake mix to the fluffy Cool Whip and the charming decorative finish of Hershey’s Hugs, every component ensures this dessert is both delightful and fuss-free.
- Red velvet cake mix: The foundation of this cake, bringing that classic deep red color and subtle cocoa flavor.
- 8 ounces Cool Whip: Adds a creamy, airy texture that keeps the cake moist and light without adding heaviness.
- 1 egg: Helps bind everything together for the perfect crumb and structure.
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sprinkled on top before baking to add a touch of sweetness and a delicate crust.
- 16 Hershey’s Hugs: These charming chocolates add the final flourish and a sweet bite of layered milk and white chocolate.
How to Make Easy Red Velvet Cake with Hershey’s Hugs Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF. This ensures your cake will bake evenly from the moment you slide it into the oven. Meanwhile, grease an 8×8 baking dish to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, Cool Whip, and egg. Beat these ingredients together until smooth and fully incorporated. The Cool Whip provides moisture and a tender crumb, while the egg gives the cake body and structure.
Step 3: Pour Into Baking Dish
Gently pour your luscious red velvet batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This step is crucial for an even bake and ensures the lovely red color is on full display on every slice.
Step 4: Sprinkle Powdered Sugar
Evenly sprinkle 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar over the top of the batter. This adds a delicate sweetness and helps create a slight crust once baked, giving a wonderful texture contrast.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Bake your cake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it starting around the 35-minute mark by inserting a toothpick. When it comes out clean, your cake is perfectly baked.
Step 6: Add Hershey’s Hugs
Once you take the cake out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, gently press the Hershey’s Hugs into the warm cake. The gentle heat will slightly melt the chocolates, creating an irresistible finish.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting and serving. This resting time lets the cake set and the Hershey’s Hugs firm up just right, giving you that perfect bite every time.
How to Serve Easy Red Velvet Cake with Hershey’s Hugs Recipe
Garnishes
To make this cake even more special, consider topping it with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. Fresh strawberries or raspberries also add a pop of color and a burst of fruity freshness that pairs wonderfully with the rich cake.
Side Dishes
This Easy Red Velvet Cake with Hershey’s Hugs Recipe shines on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk. If you’re serving it at a party, fresh fruit or a light salad can balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra wow factor, consider serving this cake in pretty individual ramekins or cutting it into heart-shaped portions for themed events. You can drizzle a little extra melted Hershey’s Hugs over the top before serving to amp up the chocolatey goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, maintaining its moisture and flavor beautifully.
Freezing
This cake also freezes well! Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving and gently reheat if you like.
Reheating
If you prefer a warm slice, microwave leftovers in short 15-second bursts just until warmed through. This brings back the soft, tender texture, and you can even add a fresh Hershey’s Hug on top to melt slightly for extra indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use homemade red velvet batter instead of cake mix?
Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for convenience with cake mix, you can certainly use your favorite homemade red velvet batter. Just adjust the Cool Whip and egg accordingly to maintain the right texture.
What if I don’t have Hershey’s Hugs? Can I substitute another chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute with white chocolate chips or any other chocolate you prefer. Hershey’s Hugs add a unique dual-flavor twist, but feel free to get creative with your substitute!
Can this cake be made in a different size pan?
Of course. Just keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly. A larger pan will yield a thinner cake that cooks faster, while a smaller pan will need more time to bake through.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free cake mix and substitute the Cool Whip for a dairy-free whipped topping alternative. Ensure your chocolates are also dairy-free, and you’ll have a yummy version that fits your needs.
How do I know when the cake is done without a toothpick?
Besides the classic toothpick test, you can gently press the center of the cake—it should spring back lightly and not feel jiggly. The edges will also start to pull away slightly from the sides of the pan.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Red Velvet Cake with Hershey’s Hugs Recipe combines the magic of simplicity with the charm of a decadent dessert that’s bound to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just trying your hand at cake making, this recipe is a wonderful way to create a dessert that feels special without the fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this easy, rich, and delicious treat as much as I have!
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Easy Red Velvet Cake with Hershey’s Hugs Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Red Velvet Cake recipe offers a quick and simple way to enjoy a classic dessert with minimal ingredients and effort. Combining a red velvet cake mix with Cool Whip and egg, it yields a moist and flavorful cake topped with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar and delicious Hershey’s Hugs chocolates for an extra sweet touch. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe makes a delightful treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Cake Mixture
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (approx. 15.25 oz)
- 8 ounces Cool Whip
- 1 large egg
Topping
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 16 Hershey’s Hugs chocolates
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, 8 ounces of Cool Whip, and 1 egg. Beat the ingredients together until a smooth batter forms.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish to prevent sticking, then pour the batter evenly into it.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar evenly over the surface of the batter for a delicate sweetness and slight crust.
- Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
- Cool & Add Chocolates: Let the cake cool for about 5 minutes, then gently press 16 Hershey’s Hugs chocolates into the top of the cake, spacing them evenly.
- Final Cooling & Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely so the chocolates set, then slice and serve your delicious red velvet cake.
Notes
- Make sure the Cool Whip is thawed before mixing for better incorporation.
- Use a toothpick test to avoid under or over-baking the cake.
- You can substitute Hershey’s Hugs with other chocolates or leave the topping off if preferred.
- For a more intense red velvet flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of buttermilk if desired.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
