Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a standard bundt pan or loaf pans. Alternatively, use baking spray for easy release.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step ensures the cake has an airy yet dense texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the buttermilk, vanilla extract, red food coloring, and vinegar. Slowly add this mixture to the batter, alternating with the dry ingredients. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Pour Batter

Transfer the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Check for doneness around the 1-hour mark.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. If using the cream cheese glaze, whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.