📖 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. I sometimes use a springform pan for easy release, but a regular cake pan works just fine.
2. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of softened butter and 1 3/4 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Don't rush this step; it's important for the cake's texture! A handheld mixer works wonders.
3. Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for best results. Sometimes I forget to take them out ahead of time and then I just stick them in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes– it really does the trick!
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This ensures everything is evenly distributed and prevents pockets of baking powder or soda.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; overmixing can lead to a tough cake. I usually do it in 3 additions, starting and ending with flour.
6. Gently fold in 3 cups of diced fresh rhubarb. The rhubarb should be about 1/2-inch thick. If the pieces are too big, they might sink to the bottom of the cake.
7. Pour batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the top with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. This creates a lovely, slightly crunchy top.
8. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so start checking around 45 minutes.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Don't try to remove it while it's still hot; it might fall apart.
10. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. I love the look of a generous dusting of powdered sugar, but it's totally optional. Serve warm or at room temperature. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream is always a welcome addition! It would be nice to share with freinds.