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Layered Cake

A delicious and versatile layered cake that is lower in calories and high in protein, perfect for meal prep and customizable for different dietary needs.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweet
Cuisine: American, Baking
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the cake
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Provides structure and stability.
  • 2 cups Granulated Sugar Adds sweetness and moisture.
  • 1.5 teaspoons Baking Powder Helps the cake rise.
  • 1.5 teaspoons Baking Soda Aids in leavening.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Provides rich chocolate flavor.
  • 4 large Eggs Bind ingredients and provide moisture.
  • 1 cup Whole Milk Adds richness.
  • 0.5 cups Vegetable Oil Keeps cake moist.
  • 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Provides flavor.
  • 1 cup Boiling Water Enhances moisture.
For the frosting
  • 2 cups Unsalted Butter Creates creamy buttercream.
  • 4 cups Powdered Sugar Achieves sweet frosting texture.
  • 0.5 cups Cocoa Powder For chocolate buttercream.
  • 0.5 cups Strawberry Puree For strawberry buttercream.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract For vanilla buttercream.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder.
  3. Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes, then carefully stir in the boiling water.
Baking
  1. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  2. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Frosting and Assembly
  1. Beat two cups of unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa for chocolate or strawberry puree for a fruity frosting.
  2. Once cooled, layer cakes with buttercream between each layer, then frost the top and sides.
  3. Decorate as desired, such as with fresh strawberries or chocolate shavings.

Notes

For a healthier twist, substitute some sugar with natural sweeteners. Cake is great for meal prep; wrap it well to maintain moisture. Consider gluten-free options by swapping out the all-purpose flour.