Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 large Eggs
- 3 large Egg Whites
- 1 cup Buttermilk
- 3 Tablespoons Oil
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 1 1/2 cups Sugar
- 2 1/4 cups Cake Flour
- 1 Tablespoon Baking Powder
- 3/4 teaspoon Salt
Frosting Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened and cut into cubes)
- 1 cup Butter (softened)
- 4 ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
- 4 cups Powdered Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste
- 1 Tablespoon Cream or Milk (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a stand mixer, stir together the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt.
- Incorporate Butter: Beat the softened, cubed butter into the dry flour mixture one cube at a time until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in half of the egg-milk mixture and beat until the batter becomes light and fluffy. Add the remaining wet ingredients and mix just until combined to avoid over-mixing.
- Prepare Pans and Bake: Lightly spray two 8-inch or 9-inch round cake pans with non-stick cooking spray. Divide the batter evenly between the pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 20-24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans before removing.
- Make Vanilla Buttercream Frosting: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and cream cheese for about 4 minutes until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Sugar and Flavor: Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat for an additional 2 minutes. Mix in the vanilla extract or bean paste and add cream or milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cake layers are completely cooled, spread the vanilla buttercream frosting evenly over one layer, place the second layer on top, and frost the top and sides of the cake to finish.
Notes
- For best results, ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
- Do not overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
- Buttercream frosting can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; bring to room temperature and re-whip before frosting.
- You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or another neutral oil if preferred.
- Use room temperature cream cheese to avoid lumps in the frosting.
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 24 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American