Ingredients:

  • 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup cotton candy (fluffy, preferably pink or blue for color)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • ½ cup cotton candy (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (approximately 4-5 minutes).
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the creamed butter mixture, alternating between the two, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
  6. Gently fold in the cotton candy using a spatula. The cotton candy will dissolve slightly into the batter, creating a fun swirl of flavor.
  7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, remove them from the pans and place them on wire racks to cool completely.
  9. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust the consistency with more heavy cream or powdered sugar if necessary.
  10. Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then top with the second layer and repeat. Place the third layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
  11. Top the cake with the remaining cotton candy, creating a whimsical effect.
  12. Slice the cake into 12 servings and enjoy!