Description

This exquisite three-layer celebration sponge combines the nostalgic joy of a sprinkle-filled cake with the refined depth of a rich chocolate cream cheese frosting. Engineered for a perfect crumb using precise buttermilk and creaming techniques, it is a centerpiece designed for those who appreciate professional-quality home baking.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to 65°F
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
1/2 cup colorful sprinkles (jimmies or quins)
8 oz full-fat brick cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch or 9-inch pans by greasing them with butter, dusting with flour, and lining the bottoms with parchment paper circles.
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter on medium speed until smooth, then gradually add the sugar and beat for several minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and increased in volume.
Incorporate the room-temperature eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to maintain a stable emulsion, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.
Switching to manual stirring with a spatula, fold in the flour mixture and buttermilk in alternating batches, beginning and ending with the flour, to avoid overworking the gluten.
Gently fold in the colorful sprinkles until just distributed, being careful not to let the colors streak through the white batter.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 28-34 minutes (depending on pan size) until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean; cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
To prepare the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until creamy, add vanilla and salt, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar followed by the cocoa powder until the consistency is glossy and smooth.

Notes

To ensure a perfectly flat top for easy layering, try using wet cake strips around the exterior of your pans to regulate temperature during baking. Always allow your layers to become completely cold, or even chill them briefly in the refrigerator, before applying the chocolate cream cheese frosting to prevent it from melting or slipping.

Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American