Anniversary Cake

This elegant anniversary cake features soft vanilla sponge layers paired with silky buttercream frosting for a timeless celebration dessert. Perfect for anniversaries, weddings, and milestone moments, this cake combines reliable baking techniques with beautiful presentation and rich vanilla flavor.

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Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: anniversary cake, buttercream cake, celebration cake, special occasion dessert, vanilla layer cake

Prep Time: 25

Cook Time: 35

Cooling Time: 1

Total Time: 1 15

Servings: slices

Calories: 385kcal

Author: Lila benett

Cost: 15

Equipment

2 round 8-inch cake pans
electric mixer
mixing bowls
measuring cups and spoons
wire cooling rack
offset spatula
cake board or serving plate
serrated knife

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp fine sea salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 tsp pure vanilla extract
3/4 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter for frosting
4 cups powdered sugar
4 tbsp heavy cream or milk
1 tsp vanilla extract for frosting

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the center of the oven.
Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
Measure flour using the spoon-and-level method for accurate texture.
Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing.
Beat softened butter in a large bowl for 2–3 minutes until pale and fluffy.
Add sugar gradually in four additions, beating between each addition until fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until incorporated.
Add vanilla extract and mix briefly until fragrant.
Mix in half of the flour mixture on low speed until mostly combined.
Add all the buttermilk and mix gently until combined.
Add the remaining flour mixture and mix until just combined without overmixing.
Divide batter evenly between prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
Bake for 32–35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool cakes in pans for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Beat butter for frosting on medium-high speed for 3–4 minutes until fluffy.
Add half the powdered sugar and mix slowly until combined.
Add 2 tablespoons cream and mix until smooth.
Add remaining powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
Add additional cream as needed until frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
Mix in vanilla extract for the frosting.
Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and secure with a small amount of frosting underneath.
Spread frosting evenly over the first layer.
Place the second cake layer on top and level if needed.
Apply a crumb coat, chill briefly, then frost the top and sides smoothly.
Decorate with fresh fruit, flowers, piping, or anniversary toppers before serving.

Notes

Always use room-temperature ingredients for smooth batter and even baking. Chill the frosted cake for 15–30 minutes before decorating for cleaner piping and sharper edges. Customize with fresh berries, edible flowers, or personalized toppers for any anniversary milestone.

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