Description
This revolutionary homemade vanilla cake pushes the boundaries of traditional baking to deliver an exceptionally tender, airy crumb and a rich, buttery finish. Topped with a cloud-like buttercream, it is a stunning masterpiece designed for those who value precision and bold flavor in every slice.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups cake flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and meticulously grease two 9-inch round pans, lining the bottoms with parchment paper and dusting with flour.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar for a full 5 minutes until the mixture is pale, light, and fluffy.
- Add the room-temperature eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract until the batter is glossy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk, mixing on medium-low speed only until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs.
- Let the cakes rest in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the frosting, beat the remaining butter for 5 minutes, then slowly whip in the sifted confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, salt, and heavy cream until it reaches a cloud-like consistency.
- Place one cake layer on a platter, spread a thick layer of frosting, top with the second layer, and use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides with smooth or swirled patterns.
Notes
To ensure a perfect emulsion, use a digital scale to weigh your flour and verify that your eggs and milk have reached true room temperature before mixing. Sifting the confectioners’ sugar twice for the frosting will guarantee a professional, silky texture that is free from any lumps.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American