INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

6. Pour the Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
8. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.