Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp almond extract
  • 1 tbsp colored sprinkles (optional)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (for frosting)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 1 tbsp food coloring (optional for festive colors)
  • Pinch of salt (for frosting)
  • ½ cup shredded coconut (optional for decoration)
  • Edible glitter or confetti (optional for decoration)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the room temperature butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes) using an electric mixer.
  4. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
  5. Gradually add in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
  6. If desired, fold in the colored sprinkles for added festive flair.
  7. Evenly distribute the batter among the prepared cake pans.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low until combined.
  11. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat on high until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
  12. If desired, incorporate food coloring until achieving the desired color.
  13. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
  14. Add the second layer of cake and repeat the frosting process. Top with the third layer of cake.
  15. Use the remaining frosting to frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
  16. If using, sprinkle shredded coconut over the top for additional texture.
  17. Add edible glitter or confetti for a festive touch.
  18. Slice and serve at room temperature. Enjoy your Winter Layer Cake Delight!