📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. Alternatively, you could use parchment paper to line the bottom for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, softened, and 1 3/4 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer. Don't rush this step; it's crucial for a light cake!
3. Beat in 3 large eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Using high quality vanilla extract is key here.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so be gentle!
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles. It is so annoying to find air bubbles in a cake after it's been baked, do this step properly.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it; ovens vary!
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. I know, it's tempting to cut into it, but trust me, you gotta be patient.
9. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened, and 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, softened, until smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
10. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. I personally like a less sweet frosting, but to each their own!
11. Once the cake is completely cool, frost the top and sides with the cream cheese frosting. Be generous!
12. Sprinkle 4 ounces of crumbled blue cheese evenly over the top of the frosted cake. Don't be shy! This is where the magic happens.
13. Slice, serve, and prepare for rave reviews (or at least some very intrigued expressions!).