Blue Velvet Cake

When it comes to velvet cake, why does red get all the glory? These buttermilk cakes are just as good — and maybe even a little more exciting — when made with other colors. Because that’s all that velvet cakes are (in case you’re one of the many thousands who isn’t quite sure), just buttermillk, a touch of cocoa powder and food coloring. And red has had its moment, it’s time to give other colors a chance.

While its origin is unclear, most people believe that this cake got its name becuase of the reddish hue that was produced by the reaction between natural cocoa powder and buttermilk. But now we use food coloring to heighten the color. And since we’re using food coloring, why not have some fun?

A new twist on a traditional red velvet cake, inspired by the royal heirloom sapphire engagement ring.

1. Heat oven to 325°F. Grease and lightly flour bottoms and sides of three 8-inch round cake pans, or spray with baking spray with flour.
2. In large bowl, beat cake ingredients with electric mixer on low speed about 30 seconds, then on medium speed 2 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally.
3. Divide batter evenly among pans. Bake 22 to 27 minutes or until top springs back when lightly touched in center. Cool 15 minutes. Remove from pans; cool completely.
4. Spoon marshmallow creme into large microwavable bowl; microwave uncovered on High 15 to 20 seconds to soften. Add butter. Beat with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Beat in powdered sugar and salt until smooth.
5. If necessary, trim rounded tops of 2 cake layers to flatten before assembling. Place 1 cake layer, top side down, on serving plate; spread with about 1/3 cup frosting. Top with second layer, top side down; spread with about 1/3 cup frosting. Top with untrimmed cake layer, top side up. Frost side and top of cake with remaining frosting. Store loosely covered.

To make candy garnish, line cookie sheet with foil, and spray with cooking spray. In 2-quart saucepan, stir together 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup corn syrup and 1/4 cup water. Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves; heat to boiling. Without stirring, heat to 300°F to 310°F, or until a small amount of syrup dropped into cold water forms hard, brittle threads. Remove from heat and stir in desired amount blue food color. Pour onto cookie sheet in random design. Let cool, and break into pieces. Garnish cake with candy pieces as desired.