1. Preparing the Red Velvet Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
3. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, vanilla extract, vinegar, and red food coloring until smooth.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

2. Baking the Cake Layers

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract.

4. Assembling the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining layers.
2. Apply a thin crumb coat of frosting around the entire cake, then chill for 15 minutes.
3. Apply a final smooth layer of frosting and decorate as desired.

5. Decorating the Cake

1. Lightly dust the top with edible gold dust or sprinkles.
2. Use a Gryffindor crest stencil and edible food spray for a themed design.
3. Add fondant decorations or red and gold ribbons for extra magic!