📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds for easy removal. This step is super important!
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes with a stand mixer. Don't rush it!
3. Beat in 4 large eggs, one at a time, then stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This prevents curdling.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 3 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisking ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cake. This is where people usually go wrong!
6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. I use a kitchen scale to ensure each pan has the same amount of batter. This helps the cakes bake evenly.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown on top and spring back lightly when touched. Keep a close eye on them after 25 minutes!
8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling them upside down can help prevent them from sinking.
9. While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter and 4 cups of powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add 1/4 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy. You can adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
10. Once the cakes are completely cool, level them if needed using a serrated knife. This ensures the cake is stable and looks professional.
11. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the remaining cake layers.
12. Frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting, using an offset spatula to create a smooth surface. You can decorate the cake with sprinkles, fresh fruit, or edible flowers. Get creative!
13. For extra flair, use a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip to pipe rosettes, swirls, or other designs onto the cake. I love adding a border around the base and top of the cake.
14. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the frosting to set. This makes it easier to slice and serve.
15. Slice and serve! Enjoy your beautiful and delicious celebration cake. It's sure to be a hit at any party.