Print

Perfect Triple Layer Birthday Cake

triple layer birthday cake - featured image
Print Recipe

An easy homemade triple layer birthday cake recipe that is quick, moist, and perfect for celebrations. This modern cake features simple ingredients and a light, silky frosting.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour (King Arthur recommended)
  • 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • For the frosting:
  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2–3 tablespoons (30-45ml) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional decorations: fresh berries, edible flowers, food coloring gels

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round cake pans and line bottoms with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Batter may look curdled, which is normal.
  5. Stir in vanilla extract.
  6. With mixer on low, alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk in three parts, starting and ending with flour. Mix just until combined.
  7. Divide batter evenly among pans (about 1 1/3 cups per pan). Smooth tops with spatula.
  8. Bake 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Check at 20 minutes as ovens vary.
  9. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
  10. For frosting, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat on high for about 3 minutes until fluffy. Adjust consistency as needed.
  11. Place one cake layer on serving plate. Spread about ¾ cup frosting evenly on top. Repeat with second layer.
  12. Place third layer on top and apply a thin crumb coat all over the cake. Chill for 15 minutes to set.
  13. Apply remaining frosting smoothly with an offset spatula. Decorate as desired with berries, flowers, or sprinkles.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender. Use room temperature ingredients for better texture. Cool layers completely before frosting to prevent melting. Use a crumb coat for a clean finish. If frosting softens while spreading, chill for 10 minutes. Level cake layers with a serrated knife for stability. Optional flavor twists include lemon zest or almond extract. For dairy-free or gluten-free versions, see recipe adaptations.

Nutrition

Keywords: birthday cake, triple layer cake, celebration cake, easy cake recipe, homemade cake, vanilla cake, party cake

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/perfect-triple-layer-birthday-cakes-easy-homemade-celebration-recipe-ideas/