High-Altitude Buttermilk Devil's Food Cake

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make High-Altitude Buttermilk Devil's Food Cake.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C).

2. Step 2

   Generously spray three 9-inch round cake pans with cooking spray to ensure your cakes release effortlessly.

3. Step 3

   In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together cake flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring a harmonious blend of dry ingredients.

4. Step 4

   In a separate large bowl, grab your electric mixer and beat together white sugar, 1 cup of softened butter, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating a delightful base for your cake.

5. Step 5

   Slowly pour in half of the buttermilk, mixing until fully incorporated, then add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well blended before the next.

6. Step 6

   Gently fold in half of the flour mixture into the creamed butter blend, followed by the remaining buttermilk, mixing until just combined.

7. Step 7

   Finally, add the rest of the flour mixture and beat until the batter is smooth, which should take about a minute.

8. Step 8

   Divide the luscious batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and slide them into the preheated oven, baking for 26 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that your cakes are ready.

9. Step 9

   Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 15 minutes before carefully inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely, which should take around 45 minutes.

10. Step 10

    For the frosting, in a large bowl, beat together 1 1/4 cups of softened butter, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract with your electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and inviting.

11. Step 11

    Gradually add milk, then mix in confectioners' sugar, two cups at a time, scraping the bowl's sides as needed until the frosting reaches a smooth consistency.

12. Step 12

    Increase the mixer speed to high, adding more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until your frosting is fluffy and spreadable.

13. Step 13

    Now, it’s time to assemble your masterpiece: spread the frosting generously between the cooled cake layers, then smooth it over the top and sides, creating a beautiful finish that will impress everyone at the table.

14. Step 14

    Enjoy the sweet satisfaction of your homemade creation!.