Why only a double layer cake? Is the cake so moist and airy I won't be able to split the separate layers in order to have four layers? Can anyone...
...comment on cake consistency? Is it a good/best basic recipe for vanilla cake? Food52 needs a contest on best basic cake. Some recipes call for buttermilk, which I have heard makes the best cakes. Does the yogourt in this recipe play the same role as buttermilk would
Recipe question for:
Vanilla Cake (+ Confetti Cake Variation)
Recommended by Food52
3 Comments
I believe a 2-layer cake is mentioned in the recipe because that is the most common, classic "American-style" cake for a home baker. More experienced types will go for more layers, but this is perhaps the standard.
I would bake the two cakes a day ahead, wrap them well and chill them overnight. That will make them easy to split. Split, frost and decorate the cake chilled but serve at room temperature. If you do make 4 layers out of this, it will probably need a bit more buttercream than a 2 layer cake. 4 - 5 cups, I would say, but I always make extra for decorating....and extra can be frozen.
Some recipes use buttermilk, but I've also seen recipes use sour cream, yogurt, crème fraîche, etc. The basic concept is that the dairy enriches the batter while the acidity leads to some lift and a more tender crumb. I have a thousand different cake recipes if you need something specific, and I've never made this particular cake, but I'd give it a go. Let us know!