1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour mixture to the butter mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Add purple gel food coloring until desired shade is achieved, mixing well.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops with a spatula.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.

Assembly Instructions

1. Once cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides evenly.
2. Optional: Garnish with purple sprinkles or fresh berries.
3. Slice and serve this delightful Purple Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!