Vanilla Layer Cake

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two 9 inch round cake pans and line bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.

Step 3

In a large bowl, beat the 1 cup butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then stir in the 2 teaspoons vanilla.

Step 4

Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the 3/4 cup milk, starting and ending with flour. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 5

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 25-30 minutes. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6

For the frosting, beat 1/2 cup softened butter with 2 cups powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth and spreadable. Add more milk if needed.

Step 7

Place one cake layer on a plate, spread with a third of the frosting, top with the second layer, and frost the top and sides. Garnish with fresh strawberries if desired.