What is the point of Red velvet cake?

[schroeder]

Is it just that it's red?

[onepieceoflollipop]

I don't know I have only read about it (in American novels iirc)

Has anyone here made it or eaten it?

[southeastastra]

sounds stainey

[Tidey]

Yes, as far as I can tell. I had a Red Velvet cupcake from the Hummingbird bakery after hearing others rave about them and just thought, 'Oh. It tastes like...cake.'

[mulledjooseyfruit]

it's just red, and not particularly velvety.

the cream cheese frosting on top is the best thing about it

[CitrusZest]

Traditionally made in the US, it was a chocolate sponge that turned a deep red colour when a particular type of cocoa reacted with baking soda or powder. The trick was to use just the right amount so the colour looked right. Now, it's a plain sponge with loads of food colouring so not quite sure of the point either!
My American Step-Mother was very critical of a red velvet cake I ordered from a posh bakery in London saying it was too dense and is meant to be very light.

[smithylovesme]

I have eaten it, was not to my liking. We lived the US for 12 months and DH's family all over there. DH's grandma made it, it had vinegar in it ! not sure if thats the norm.