Classic Golden Vanilla Cake with Silky Chocolate Frosting

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.

2. Creaming

In a mixer with a paddle attachment, beat 3/4 cup butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, then the yolk, mixing and scraping the bowl after each addition. Blend for 1 minute, then mix in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.

3. Dry Ingredients

Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a bowl. Gradually add 1/3 of this mixture to the butter mix, beating on low. Incorporate half the milk, followed by another third of flour mix, remaining milk, and the rest of the flour mix until smooth.

4. Bake

Pour batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan.

5. Base

Beat the remaining butter until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Manually blend in sifted confectioners’ sugar and cocoa powder. Beat until smooth.

6. Flavoring

Add sour cream, melted chocolate, 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until creamy and even.

7. Frost

Spread the frosting over the cooled cake, creating a smooth layer. Decorate with sprinkles if desired.