Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
Set the pans aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Sift the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
This step helps remove any lumps and aerates the mixture for a lighter cake texture.
Whisk briefly to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Mix the wet ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, buttermilk, eggs, red food coloring, purple food coloring, white vinegar, and vanilla extract.
Whisk until the mixture becomes smooth and fully combined.
The vibrant color will already start to show at this stage.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Mix gently using a spatula or a stand mixer on low speed until you get a smooth, lump-free batter.
Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Divide the batter and bake
Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans.
Use a spatula to smooth the tops and ensure even layers.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the cakes
Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes.
Then gently turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooling is essential before frosting to prevent melting.

Step 7: Prepare the cream cheese frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, and vanilla extract together until creamy and smooth.
Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, continuing to beat on medium speed.
Whip until the frosting becomes light, fluffy, and spreadable.

Step 8: Assemble the cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top.
Place the second cake layer over it and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

Step 9: Final touches
Smooth out the frosting using a spatula or a cake scraper for a clean finish.
Optionally, decorate with a few edible flowers, sprinkles, or purple sanding sugar.
Chill the cake slightly before slicing to get clean, neat cuts