Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- Combine with Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined and smooth; do not overmix.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Divide the Batter: Evenly distribute the cake batter between the two prepared cake pans.
- Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Vanilla Frosting
- Beat Butter: Using an electric mixer, beat the butter until creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually beat in powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Add milk or cream as needed to reach a spreadable consistency.
- Whip Until Fluffy: Continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble and Decorate the Cake
- Level the Cakes: If the cakes have domed on top, trim them with a knife to level them out.
- Layer and Frost: Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and apply a thin coat of frosting all over the cake. This is the crumb coat. Chill for about 30 minutes, then apply the final coat of frosting.
- Decorate: Decorate as desired with additional piping, sprinkles, or toppings.
Conclusion
Making a cake from scratch might seem daunting at first, but following these simple steps will help you create a delicious and beautiful cake. Enjoy the baking process and the joy it brings to you and your loved ones. Whether simply frosted or elaborately decorated, your homemade cake is sure to be a delightful treat.