Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Make a Vanilla Cake Ingredients For the Cake * 2½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour * 2½ teaspoons baking powder * ½ teaspoon salt * 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened * 1¾ cups (350 g) granulated sugar * 4 large eggs * 2 teaspoons vanilla extract * 1 cup (240 mL) whole milk For the Buttercream Frosting * 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened * 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar * 2 teaspoons vanilla extract * 2–4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream ⸻ Step 1: Prepare Your Oven 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Grease two 8-inch round cake pans. 3. Line the bottoms with parchment paper. 4. Lightly grease the parchment paper. ⸻ Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients 1. In a medium bowl, combine: * Flour * Baking powder * Salt 2. Whisk until evenly mixed. 3. Set aside. ⸻ Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar 1. Place the softened butter into a large mixing bowl. 2. Beat for about 1 minute until smooth. 3. Gradually add the sugar. 4. Beat for 3–5 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale. ⸻ Step 4: Add the Eggs 1. Add one egg. 2. Beat until fully incorporated. 3. Repeat with each remaining egg. 4. Mix in the vanilla extract. ⸻ Step 5: Combine Everything 1. Add one-third of the dry ingredients. 2. Mix on low speed. 3. Add half of the milk. 4. Continue alternating dry ingredients and milk until everything is combined. 5. Mix only until no streaks of flour remain. ⸻ Step 6: Fill the Cake Pans 1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. 2. Smooth the tops with a spatula. 3. Gently tap the pans on the counter to remove large air bubbles. ⸻ Step 7: Bake 1. Place the pans in the center of the oven. 2. Bake for 30–35 minutes. 3. The cakes are done when: * A toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. * The tops spring back lightly when touched. ⸻ Step 8: Cool the Cakes 1. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10–15 minutes. 2. Carefully turn them out onto wire racks. 3. Remove the parchment paper. 4. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. ⸻ Step 9: Make the Buttercream 1. Beat the softened butter until smooth. 2. Gradually add the powdered sugar. 3. Add the vanilla extract. 4. Add the milk or cream one tablespoon at a time until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. 5. Beat for 2–3 minutes until fluffy. ⸻ Step 10: Assemble the Cake 1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. 2. Spread a layer of buttercream evenly over the top. 3. Place the second cake layer on top. 4. Press gently to level it. ⸻ Step 11: Frost the Cake 1. Spread a thin “crumb coat” over the entire cake. 2. Chill for 15–20 minutes. 3. Apply a final, thicker coat of frosting. 4. Smooth the sides and top with an offset spatula or bench scraper. ⸻ Step 12: Decorate Decorate with any of the following: * Sprinkles * Fresh berries * Chocolate shavings * Buttercream rosettes * Colored frosting * Edible flowers ⸻ Step 13: Serve 1. Slice the cake with a sharp knife. 2. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat slices. 3. Serve and enjoy! Tips for Success * Use room-temperature butter, eggs, and milk. * Measure ingredients accurately. * Do not overmix the batter. * Let the cake cool completely before frosting. * Store the finished cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerate if your frosting or filling requires it. Took a whole decade for ChatGPT to load this whole thing please like 🙏 #tiktoktext #gotobed #sleep #3AM #cakerecipe - @its_me_yay18