Hip Hip Hooray

A Vanilla celebration cake.

It might look like a complicated cake to make, but you will be surprised how much fun you will have baking and decoration this lovely cake.

Method

• 2 Ina Paarman Vanilla cake mix is used to make the 4 layers of cake.

Brushing cakes with simple syrup is the secret to keeping them moist for longer.
Flavour the syrup any way you wish.

•  Heat 1 cup (250g) caster sugar and 1 cup (250ml) water in a saucepan over a low heat until sugar has melted.
• Boil for 5 minutes.
• Remove from heat and stir in flavouring.
• Set aside to cool slightly and infuse.
• Flavour options: Peel of 1 lemon, 1 tbsp (15ml) rose-water, 1 vanilla pod or 1 Earl Grey tea bag can be added.

Butter Icing:

• Beat 2 cups (500g) softened butter with an electric mixer until pale.
• Sift in 4 cups (520g) icing sugar and stir until just combined to avoid a sugar puff.
  Beat with an electric mixer until pale and smooth.
• Add 1 tsp (5ml) vanilla essence and mix well.
• Add food colouring, if using, and mix well.
• Use as needed or cover with clingfilm and store at room temperature.