Step 1: Preheat the oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

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, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the eggs and vanilla

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

Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the cakes

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the frosting

• In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy, adjusting milk for desired consistency.

Step 8: Assemble the cake

• Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting on top. Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate as desired.