Decorative Layer Cake Recipe

Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pans. 2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. 3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. 4. Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Add to the creamed mixture alternately with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until smooth. 5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. 6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool.

Making the Buttercream

1. In a medium bowl, beat the butter until creamy. 2. Gradually add the icing sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy. 3. Add a few tablespoons of cream as needed to achieve the desired consistency.

Decorating the Cake

1. Once the cakes have cooled, trim the tops off to create flat surfaces. 2. Stack the layers, spreading a layer of buttercream between each layer. 3. Coat the entire cake in a thin layer of buttercream. This helps to prevent crumbs from getting into the final layer of icing. 4. Roll out your fondant or sugar paste on a clean, dry surface dusted with icing sugar. Carefully cover the cake, smoothing out any air bubbles or wrinkles. 5. Use food coloring, edible pearls, and other decorations to create your desired design.