Classic Mile-High Layer Cake

The Classic Mile-High Layer Cake is a show-stopping dessert that never fails to impress. With its tall, fluffy layers and generous slathering of rich buttercream frosting, it’s the ultimate symbol of celebration. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday gathering, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is the epitome of indulgence. The beauty of a mile-high cake lies not just in its impressive stature, but in the way it strikes the perfect balance between light and rich, tender and flavorful.

In this comprehensive recipe, we’ll guide you through every step of making your own Classic Mile-High Layer Cake from scratch—complete with preparation steps, cooking notes, serving suggestions, and even nutritional information. Let’s dive into the world of classic baking with this tall slice of heaven.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour

• 2 ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract

• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk

• ½ cup (120ml) sour cream

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened

• 6 cups (720g) powdered sugar, sifted

• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 4–6 tbsp heavy cream or milk (adjust for consistency)

• A pinch of salt

Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two or three 8-inch round cake pans (depending on how many layers you want), or line them with parchment paper for easier release.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until pale and fluffy—about 3–4 minutes. This step is crucial for a light, airy texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together milk and sour cream. With the mixer on low speed, alternately add the dry ingredients and milk/sour cream mixture to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25–30 minutes (for two pans) or 20–25 minutes (for three pans), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well between each addition. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Slowly pour in heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, beating until the frosting reaches a light, spreadable consistency.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Level the tops of your cakes with a serrated knife if needed. Place the first layer on a serving plate, spread a thick layer of frosting on top, and repeat with remaining layers. Frost the sides and top with the remaining buttercream.

Variation:

• Lemon Mile-High Cake: Add 2 tablespoons of lemon zest and swap half the milk for lemon juice.

• Chocolate Version: Substitute ¾ cup of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder and add a touch of espresso powder.

• Berry-Filled Cake: Add a layer of raspberry or strawberry preserves between each cake layer before frosting.

• Coconut Layer Cake: Fold shredded coconut into the batter and sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the frosted cake.

COOKING Note:

Be sure your ingredients—especially the butter, eggs, and milk—are at room temperature before starting. This helps them emulsify properly and ensures a smooth, even batter. Also, avoid overmixing, which can cause the cake to become dense or dry.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve chilled or at room temperature, with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.

• Garnish with fresh berries, edible flowers, or chocolate shavings for a fancier presentation.

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert duo.

Tips:

• Use cake strips around your pans to ensure flat, even baking.

• Chill the cake layers before frosting for easier handling.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge.

• Want to freeze it? Wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months—thaw before assembling.

Prep Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour (plus cooling and decorating time)

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 620 kcal

• Protein: 5 g

• Carbohydrates: 75 g

• Fat: 34 g

• Saturated Fat: 21 g

• Cholesterol: 135 mg

• Sodium: 210 mg

• Sugar: 60 g

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! The cake layers can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored tightly wrapped in plastic at room temperature. You can also freeze the layers for longer storage.

Q: What’s the best way to ensure even cake layers?

Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly among your pans. You can also tap the pans on the counter to release air bubbles and flatten the batter.

Q: How do I make the cake extra moist?

Using sour cream in the batter adds richness and moisture. You can also brush the layers with a simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, boiled and cooled) before frosting.

Q: Can I use store-bought frosting?

Yes, though homemade buttercream gives the best flavor and texture. If using store-bought, whip it with a hand mixer for a few minutes to make it fluffier.

Q: Can this be made gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure to check your baking powder and other ingredients for hidden gluten.

Conclusion

The Classic Mile-High Layer Cake is the definition of timeless dessert elegance. With its towering layers, buttery crumb, and cloud-like frosting, it’s a testament to the joy of baking from scratch. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner looking to impress, this recipe offers all the guidance you need to create a centerpiece-worthy dessert. Customize it, decorate it, savor it—this cake is a celebration in every bite.

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