What's a recipe for an easy but elegant birthday cake?

Here is one with a rich history: http://food52.com/recipes/11540_belle_foleys_chocolate_cake and its frosting: http://www.food52.com/recipes/14604_belle_foleys_chocolate_cake_chocolate_frosting

Here are two great ones: http://www.food52.com/recipes/6857_grownup_birthday_cake; http://www.food52.com/recipes/143_lemon_birthday_cake