Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 9-inch round baking pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes.

Incorporate the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and blend until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Evenly distribute the batter among the three prepared cake pans.

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes in the pans before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, layer the cakes, adding your favorite toppings or frosting in between and on top.