📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans. I like to line the bottoms with parchment paper circles, makes it a whole lot easier to get the cakes out later!
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. You want this to be *really* creamy; don't rush this step.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Nobody wants eggy surprises!
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures everything's evenly distributed, giving you a consistent bake.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until *just* combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake. We want light and airy!
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared baking pans. Use a kitchen scale for precise measuring; makes sure those layers are even!
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them – ovens can be fickle things.
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key! Frosting a warm cake is a recipe for disaster.
9. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy. Trust me, room temperature butter is your friend here!
10. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Don't dump it all in at once, or you'll end up in a powdered sugar cloud!
11. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk. Beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. If it's too thick, add a little more milk; if it's too thin, add more powdered sugar. Adjust it until you get the perfect consistency.
12. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top.
13. Carefully place the second cake layer on top of the frosting. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Get creative with your decorating!
14. Now, for the superhero decorations! Arrange your favorite superhero figurines, edible sprinkles, or superhero-themed toppers on top of the cake. Let your imagination run wild! If you are using buttercream transfers, it is best to chill them in the freezer for 10 minutes before placing them to the cake.
15. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the frosting set and makes slicing easier. Although who are we kidding? Nobody's gonna wait that long!
16. Slice, serve, and enjoy your awesome superhero birthday cake! Prepare for squeals of delight.