Step 1: Preheat the oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the butter and sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla

• Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk

• Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk in two additions, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

Step 6: Bake the cake

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool the cakes

• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 8: Prepare the frosting

• In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream, beating until smooth and fluffy. Adjust the consistency with more cream if needed.

Step 9: Assemble the cake

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Smooth with a spatula or create decorative swirls.