Description
A timeless recipe for a tender, buttery yellow cake topped with a classic vanilla buttercream. This reliable dessert focuses on simple pantry staples to create a soft crumb and an authentic flavor that only scratch-baking can provide.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
- 2 cups Granulated Sugar
- 4 Large Eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups Cake Flour
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 tbsp Baking Powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, softened (for frosting)
- 3 cups Confectioners’ Sugar
- 2-3 tbsp Heavy Cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), grease two 9-inch round cake pans, and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar for approximately 5 minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk; begin and end with the flour mixture and mix on low speed until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to rest in their pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the frosting, beat the remaining butter until creamy, then slowly add confectioners’ sugar and heavy cream until smooth and spreadable.
- Place one cake layer on a plate, spread with a third of the frosting, top with the second layer, and cover the entire cake with the remaining buttercream.
Notes
To ensure the most tender crumb, be careful not to over-mix the batter once the flour is added. Using room temperature ingredients is crucial for a smooth emulsion and an even rise in the oven.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American