How to Prepare a Classic Vanilla Layer Cake with Buttercream Frosting

How to Prepare a Classic Vanilla Layer Cake with Buttercream Frosting: A Simple Guide

Are you craving something sweet and homemade? How about whipping up a delicious classic vanilla layer cake with buttercream frosting? This cake is a beloved favorite for many, and with good reason. Its fluffy and moist layers paired with creamy, sweet frosting are a match made in dessert heaven. The best part is, making this cake is not as complicated as it might seem. In this article, I’ll guide you through the process in simple steps, so you can impress your family and friends with your baking prowess.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Cake:

• 2 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk, room temperature

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2-4 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Instructions:

Preparing the Cake Layers:

1. Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans or line them with parchment paper circles.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the butter on high speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat on high speed for about 5 minutes until creamed together nicely.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract. Ensure each egg is incorporated before adding the next. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: With your mixer on low, add the dry ingredients in three additions alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix each addition just until incorporated. Do not overmix.

6. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely in the pans set on a wire rack.

Preparing the Buttercream Frosting:

1. Beat the Butter: In a large bowl, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.

2. Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low until combined. Add vanilla extract and mix well.

3. Adjust Consistency: Add heavy cream (or milk) 1 tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired frosting consistency. For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar; for a thinner frosting, add more cream.

4. Beat Until Fluffy: Once all ingredients are combined, increase to high speed and beat for about 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Assembling the Cake:

1. Level the Cakes: If the cakes domed on the top, carefully level them with a knife.

2. First Layer of Frosting: Place one cake layer on your serving plate and evenly cover the top with frosting.

3. Second Layer: Top the first frosted layer with the second cake layer and apply a thin coat of frosting around the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Chill for about 30 minutes.

4. Final Frosting: Once the crumb coat is set, apply the final coat of frosting. Smooth the sides and top, and add any decorations if desired.

5. Refrigerate: Chill the cake for about 1 hour to set everything nicely.

And there you have it—a classic vanilla layer cake with buttercream frosting that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. This cake is not just delicious; making it from scratch is a rewarding experience. It’s a lovely way to show your love and care for your family and friends, or even just to treat yourself. So, put on your apron, and let’s get baking!