How to Make a Majestic Twelve-Layer Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

The twelve-layer cake. Even the name inspires awe, doesn’t it? It’s a towering symbol of celebration, a testament to patience and skill, and a flavor explosion waiting to happen. This isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to conquer a baking challenge, this guide will equip you with everything you need to create your own masterpiece. Let’s break down the steps to building this majestic cake, layer by delicious layer.

Gathering Your Ingredients: A Baker’s Treasure Hunt

Every great baking adventure begins with gathering the finest ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create your twelve-layer cake:

For the Cake Layers:

• 6 cups (750g) cake flour, sifted (for a lighter crumb)
• 4 cups (900g) granulated sugar (for sweetness and moisture)
• 4 1/2 tsp (20g) baking powder (for a fluffy texture)
• 1 1/2 tsp (9g) salt (to balance the sweetness)
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (for richness and flavor)
• 2 cups (475ml) whole milk, at room temperature (for a tender crumb)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil (for moisture)
• 8 large egg whites, at room temperature (for structure)
• 2 tsp (10ml) vanilla extract (for a warm, fragrant flavor)

For the Frosting:

• 5 cups (600g) unsalted butter, softened (for a creamy texture)
• 10 cups (1200g) powdered sugar, sifted (for sweetness and a smooth finish)
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (for richness and consistency)
• 2 tsp (10ml) vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt (to enhance the flavors)

Optional Add-ins:

• Food coloring (to tint the frosting)
• Sprinkles (because every celebration deserves sprinkles)
• Fruit (for a fresh, flavorful addition)

Important Note: These quantities are a guide. You can adjust them based on your desired cake size and frosting thickness.

Assembling Your Baking Arsenal: Tools of the Trade

Before embarking on our twelve-layer cake adventure, let’s ensure you have the proper tools at hand:

• 12-inch round cake pans (at least 2-3)
• Parchment paper (to prevent sticking)
• Electric mixer (for effortlessly combining ingredients)
• Measuring cups and spoons (for accuracy)
• Rubber spatula (for scraping the bowl and spreading batter)
• Serrated knife (for leveling cake layers)
• Offset spatula (for frosting)
• Piping bag and tips (optional, for decorating)

Building the Twelve-Layer Wonder: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and create magic!

1. Preparing the Cake Layers: The Foundation of Flavor

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans, lining the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release later.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In the bowl of your electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and milk until light and fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites, oil, and vanilla extract. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the batter, mixing until everything is well incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a tough cake.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Creating the Frosting: The Sweet Embrace

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until light and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

3. Assembling the Cake: Reaching New Heights

1. Once the cakes are completely cool, use a serrated knife to carefully level any domes. This will ensure your cake stacks evenly.
2. Place a dollop of frosting on your cake stand or serving plate to secure the bottom layer.
3. Begin layering! Spread a generous amount of frosting over the first cake layer, ensuring it reaches the edges. Repeat this process for each layer, stacking them carefully on top of each other.
4. Once all twelve layers are stacked, use the remaining frosting to create a crumb coat, covering the entire cake with a thin layer of frosting to seal in any crumbs. Chill the cake for 30 minutes to allow the crumb coat to set.
5. After chilling, frost the cake with the remaining frosting, using an offset spatula to create a smooth finish.