If you’re searching for the perfect treat to capture celebrations big and small, look no further than this classic Layer Cake. With soft, fluffy cake layers, a luscious sweep of frosting, and the customizable fun of sprinkles or fresh fruit, this dessert brings a sense of occasion to any table. The best part? Whether you’re an experienced baker or a total newbie, this Layer Cake brings together simple, everyday ingredients in a way that feels a little magical each time you slice in. It’s pure joy in every bite, loaded with sweet nostalgia and plenty of opportunities to put your own stamp on it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every memorable Layer Cake begins with a handful of humble pantry staples that work together to create something wonderful. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips on how each ingredient helps your cake shine.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy, soft structure that holds your cake together without being too dense.
- Baking powder: Gives your cake a beautiful rise and light, airy crumb.
- Salt: Just a touch balances sweetness and deepens the flavors in every layer.
- Granulated sugar: Delivers sweetness and helps the layers stay moist and tender.
- Unsalted butter, softened: For rich flavor, a tender crumb, and that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Large eggs, room temperature: Bind everything together while adding richness and structure.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the cake’s aroma and brings a classic flavor everyone loves.
- Whole milk, room temperature: Keeps the cake supple and moist without making it heavy.
- Frosting of choice (3 cups): Whether you go classic with vanilla buttercream or tangy cream cheese, the frosting pulls it all together.
- Sprinkles or fresh fruit (optional): Adds a festive touch, giving your Layer Cake a dash of personality and color.
How to Make Layer Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Pans and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, then line each with a circle of parchment paper. This step might seem simple, but it’s the secret to cakes that release effortlessly. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when those beautiful layers slide right out.
Step 2: Sift and Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting aerates the mixture and evenly distributes the raising agents, which means your cake rises uniformly and the crumb is tender from edge to edge.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until pale, fluffy, and inviting. This adds air and sets the groundwork for a light, melt-in-your-mouth Layer Cake. Don’t rush this step—a few extra minutes will pay delicious dividends.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract. This gradual method creates a smooth, emulsified mixture instead of a curdled batter, which ensures your cake bakes up evenly with a refined crumb.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Next, alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to your butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Remember: less is more here! Stir until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which could lead to a tougher cake.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans and gently smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is the promise of Layer Cake goodness to come!
Step 7: Cool the Cakes
Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes, which helps them firm up. Then turn them out onto a wire rack and remove the parchment. Let the layers cool completely before you frost—patience is key for smooth, smudge-free sides.
Step 8: Build and Decorate Your Layer Cake
Frost the top of one cooled cake, set the second layer gently on top, then coat the entire cake with your frosting of choice. Add a playful shower of sprinkles or a crown of fresh fruit if you like—this is where your Layer Cake becomes truly yours!
How to Serve Layer Cake
Garnishes
A flourish of colorful sprinkles, delicate shavings of chocolate, or jewel-bright berries can make your Layer Cake look as irresistible as it tastes. Even a dusting of powdered sugar brings an elegant touch for more understated celebrations.
Side Dishes
Nothing complements a slice of Layer Cake like a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a lighter touch, serve with mixed berry compote or a bright fruit salad to balance the decadence of each bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Layer Cake on a vintage cake stand for instant drama, or cut it into small squares for a playful, party-friendly dessert. You can even stack thinner layers with different colored frosting for a rainbow effect that will wow any guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Layer Cake slices tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay lovely and moist at room temperature for 1–2 days, or can be refrigerated for up to a week while retaining their tenderness and flavor.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze your Layer Cake—either frosted or unfrosted. Wrap each layer (or sliced portions) with plastic wrap and tuck into a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
For a just-baked vibe, let the cake come to room temperature before serving. If you prefer a warm slice, zap individual pieces for just a few seconds in the microwave. Take care not to overheat, as frosting can melt quickly.
FAQs
Can I make the Layer Cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake layers a day ahead and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store at room temperature or in the fridge, then frost and decorate right before serving for maximum freshness.
What’s the best way to frost a Layer Cake evenly?
The key is to chill your cake layers before assembling. Use an offset spatula for smooth results, and start with a thin “crumb coat” to seal in loose crumbs, then apply your final thick, fluffy layer of frosting for a polished finish.
Can I substitute the whole milk for a dairy-free alternative?
Yes, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk for a dairy-free Layer Cake. Choose a plant milk with some fat for the most tender crumb, and expect subtle differences in flavor but plenty of delicious results.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pans?
Make sure to grease and flour your pans well, and don’t skip the parchment paper on the bottom. This double layer of insurance means your Layer Cake layers will lift out easily, every time.
What other frostings work well with this Layer Cake?
Classic vanilla or chocolate buttercream, tangy cream cheese frosting, or even a light whipped cream make excellent companions for this Layer Cake. The best part is that you can use your favorite or mix and match for special occasions.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re feeling inspired to whip up this delightful Layer Cake and share it with the people you love. There’s something absolutely magical about cutting into those beautiful layers and seeing the smiles it brings. Whether it’s a birthday, a rainy Sunday, or just because, a homemade cake like this is always worth celebrating!
Print
Layer Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this classic Layer Cake recipe that is a perfect treat for any celebration. With moist layers of vanilla cake and luscious frosting, this homemade cake is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
Additional:
- 3 cups frosting of choice (such as buttercream or cream cheese frosting)
- Sprinkles or fresh fruit for decorating (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with milk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Bake the Cakes: Divide batter between pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Assemble and Decorate: Frost the top of one cake layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides. Decorate with sprinkles or fruit if desired.
Notes
- Ingredients should be at room temperature for best results
- Chill cake layers before frosting for easier handling
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
