Cake made with a special recipe.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
• For the Special Filling:
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, or a mix)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• For the Frosting:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Layers:
   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
   2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
   4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
   5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
   6. Stir in the sour cream until the batter is smooth.
   7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
   8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
   9. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Special Filling:
   1. In a small saucepan, combine the berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice.
   2. Cook over medium heat until the berries release their juices and the mixture begins to simmer.
   3. Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the filling thickens.
   4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
3. Prepare the Frosting:
   1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
   2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
   3. Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Add more cream if needed to reach the desired consistency.
4. Assemble the Cake:
   1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
   2. Spread a layer of the special berry filling over the top of the cake layer.
   3. Place the second cake layer on top of the filling.
   4. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the prepared frosting.
5. Decorate and Serve:
   1. Decorate the cake with fresh berries, edible flowers, or sprinkles, if desired.
   2. Slice and serve your special recipe cake, and enjoy the combination of flavors and textures.

This special recipe cake combines the richness of a moist cake with a delightful berry filling and a creamy almond-vanilla frosting, making it a perfect treat for any celebration or special occasion. Enjoy!