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18th Birthday Cake

18th Birthday Cake

Prep 45 minutes
Cook 35 minutes
Total 1 hour 20 minutes
Make an 18Th Birthday Cake that steals the show! Get expert decorating tips, flavor combos, and baking tricks for a stunning celebration.
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Ingredients
  

For the Cake Layers:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour velvety and sifted for a fine crumb texture
  • 2½ cups granulated sugar for just the right level of sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature (the foundation of our rich flavor)
  • 4 large eggs for structure and richness
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract our secret flavor enhancer

For the Buttercream Frosting:

  • 2 cups unsalted butter softened
  • 6 cups powdered sugar sifted
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Food coloring of choice gel food colors provide vibrant hues without affecting texture

For Decoration:

  • Edible gold leaf or gold dust
  • Number "18" cake topper
  • Sprinkles or edible pearls
  • Fresh flowers if desired

Instructions

  • Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans and Oven
    ❶ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    ❷ Grease and line three 8-inch cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
    Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
    ❶ In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
    ❷ In a separate mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
    ❸ Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
    ❹ Mix in the vanilla and almond extract for a delightful aroma.
    ❺ Reduce the mixer speed to low and alternately add the dry ingredients and milk:
    •  Start with ⅓ of the flour mixture, mix until combined.
    •  Add ½ of the milk, mix again.
    •  Repeat until all ingredients are incorporated, ending with the flour mixture.
    Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers
    ❶ Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
    ❷ Smooth the tops and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    ❸ Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
    Step 4: Make the Buttercream Frosting
    ❶ In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter on medium speed until creamy (about 2 minutes).
    ❷ Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud.
    ❸ Pour in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, then increase speed to medium-high. Beat until the frosting is smooth, fluffy, and spreadable (3–4 minutes).
    ❹ If using food coloring, mix it in until you achieve the desired shade.
    Step 5: Assemble the Cake
    ❶ Place the first cake layer on a cake stand.
    ❷ Spread a generous amount of buttercream frosting on top.
    ❸ Repeat with the second and third layers, stacking them evenly.
    ❹ Apply a thin crumb coat (a light layer of frosting) and chill the cake for 30 minutes.
    ❺ Once chilled, frost the entire cake smoothly with the remaining buttercream.
    Step 6: Decorate the Cake
    ❶ Gently place edible gold leaf or dust over the frosting for a luxe finish.
    ❷ Add sprinkles or edible pearls for extra elegance.
    ❸ Place the number "18" topper at the center of the cake.
    ❹ If using fresh flowers, arrange them around the base or on top for a classy touch.
    Step 7: Serve and Celebrate!
    Let the cake set for 15 minutes before slicing.
    Serve and enjoy the show-stopping 18th Birthday Cake with friends and family! 🎂✨
    18Th Birthday Cake

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