Name: Vintage Vanity Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp rose water (optional); 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup butter (for raspberry buttercream); 3 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup raspberry jam (seedless); Pink coloring (optional); Fondant or modeling chocolate for decorations; Edible gold for painting; Silver shimmer for compact mirror; Sugar gems for perfume bottle; Fondant balls dusted with pearl dust for pearls; Silver or gold fondant for drawer handles and mirror

why make this recipe

The Vintage Vanity Cake is not just a treat; it’s a delightful centerpiece for any occasion, especially for birthdays or tea parties. With its charming design and delicious flavors, this cake is sure to impress both children and adults. The combination of a fluffy butter cake and sweet raspberry buttercream makes every bite a tasty experience. Plus, decorating it like a vanity adds a fun twist that sparks creativity. You can also personalize it with different colors and accessories, making it a unique dessert for your celebration.

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how to make Vintage Vanity Cake

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, room temp
1 1/2 cups sugar
4 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp rose water (optional)
1 cup whole milk
1 cup butter (for raspberry buttercream)
3 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup raspberry jam (seedless)
Pink coloring (optional)
Fondant or modeling chocolate for decorations
Edible gold for painting
Silver shimmer for compact mirror
Sugar gems for perfume bottle
Fondant balls dusted with pearl dust for pearls
Silver or gold fondant for drawer handles and mirror

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two rectangle pans with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy and light.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and rose water if using.
Gradually alternate adding the flour mixture and the milk to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely in the pans.
For the raspberry buttercream, whip the butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and then mix in the raspberry jam. You can add pink coloring to achieve the desired shade, if you like.
Once the cakes are cool, carefully stack them with raspberry buttercream filling between the layers.
Shape the cake into a vanity or rectangle. You can use fondant-covered cardboard or Rice Krispies for the mirror piece.
Cover the entire cake in fondant (choose pastel pink, mint, or cream).
Decorate with all the edible accessories to make it look like a real vanity setup.
Finish off by adding lace-patterned fondant or edible pearl trims around the base.

how to serve Vintage Vanity Cake

Serve the Vintage Vanity Cake sliced into generous pieces so everyone can enjoy its delightful flavors. You can pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. This cake is also perfect for parties where guests can admire its beautiful design before savoring its taste.

how to store Vintage Vanity Cake

To store the Vintage Vanity Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can refrigerate it. Just ensure it is covered well to prevent it from drying out. Before serving, bring it to room temperature for the best flavor.

tips to make Vintage Vanity Cake

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps blend them smoothly.
Don’t overmix the batter after adding the flour, as this can make the cake dense.
Use high-quality butter and jam for better flavor.
If you’re not comfortable with fondant, you can use whipped cream or another frosting to decorate.
Have fun with the decorations! Make the vanity items as colorful and detailed as you like.

variation

You can try different flavors of jam for the buttercream, such as strawberry or blueberry. Alternatively, add different extracts like almond or lemon to the cake for a unique twist. If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just wrap it well and store it at room temperature. Decorate it on the day you plan to serve it for the best presentation.

2. Is fondant difficult to work with?
Fondant can be tricky, but with practice, you will get better. If you find it challenging, feel free to use buttercream or royal icing for decoration instead.

3. Can I freeze the Vintage Vanity Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake layers before frosting. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil. They can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before decorating.