Candy Cane Cake

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk
• Peppermint extract (to taste)
• Red food coloring
• Crushed candy canes for decoration

Calories (per serving):

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour cake pans.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   • In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
   • Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Mixing:
   • Gradually add dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, alternating between the two. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
6. Divide Batter and Add Flavor:
   • Divide the batter into two portions. To one portion, add peppermint extract and red food coloring for the red layer.
7. Layer and Swirl:
   • Spoon alternate dollops of batter into the prepared pans. Use a toothpick or skewer to create a swirl pattern.
8. Bake:
   • Bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool.
9. Frost and Decorate:
   • Frost the cake with a peppermint-flavored frosting. Decorate with crushed candy canes.
10. Serve:
    • Present the Candy Cane Cake as a festive treat, bringing the spirit of the holidays to your table.
11. Enjoy:
    • Enjoy the delightful combination of peppermint and sweetness in every slice of this Candy Cane Cake, a perfect addition to your Christmas celebrations.