Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly. While the oven heats up, grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or use parchment paper for added security). This step will make sure the cake comes out easily once it’s done.

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

This simple mixture is the backbone of your cake, creating a light and airy texture. Set it aside for now as you move on to the wet ingredients.

In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup unsalted butter and 2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air into the batter, which is key to getting that soft, tender crumb we all love.

Add the 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This allows the eggs to fully incorporate and helps give structure to your cake. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

Now, it’s time to mix everything together! Start by adding a third of your dry ingredients to the butter mixture, then pour in 1 cup whole milk. Alternate between adding more dry ingredients and the rest of the milk, mixing on low speed. This method helps prevent overmixing and ensures a smooth batter.

Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans, spreading it out with a spatula for an even bake. Place the pans in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cakes, especially toward the end!

Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential because if you frost the cake too soon, the frosting can melt right off. Patience is key here!

Once the cakes are completely cool, it’s time to add your frosting! Start by applying a thin layer of frosting over the entire cake to lock in any crumbs (this is called a crumb coat). Place the cake in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes to set the crumb coat.

After the crumb coat has set, spread a thicker layer of frosting over the top and sides of the cake. You can use a spatula for a smooth finish or a piping bag for a more decorative effect. This is where you can get creative—decorate with edible glitter, fondant graduation caps, or even school colors to match the theme of the celebration.