SIPIDI Saturday: Downton Abbey Edition

There is something special about new beginnings, particularly when they involve a new year! Of course what could be better to start the new year then a new season of Downton Abbey! Oh yes! That fantastic show that has captured the hearts of so many. In some ways I feel like a 15-year-old girl squealing about her favorite boy band, and not a 24 year old gushing about her favorite TV show on PBS. Sounds silly I know, but there is something so delightful about a decent TV show and this one has certainly got me hooked. Now if I could just get my husband to name a future child Sybil…hmmm…;)

Now with the first episode on tomorrow evening I knew I had to get creative and make something to celebrate. My mom (an equally enthusiastic fan) and sister are going to be joining me for an evening of fun and British accents. So what to make to celebrate? Well cake of course! It couldn't be a party without cake. I found this delicious looking recipe on Pinterest and was sold. Time to get baking and pull out the china and lace doilies. Check back soon for all the delicious goodness!


Vanilla Cake

Cake Mix
- 5 large egg whites
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2-1/4 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups flour
- 1-3/4 cups sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature and cut into cubes

Whipped Vanilla Bean Frosting
- 3 sticks + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened and cut into cubes
- 3 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1 vanilla bean, scraped
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- pinch of salt

Instructions

Cake:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease, line with parchment, and flour two round 8-inch pans.
2. In a medium bowl or measuring cup, combine and stir the egg whites, 1/4 cup of milk, and the vanilla. Set aside.
3. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the dry ingredients together on low speed for 30 seconds.
4. Add the butter and remaining milk, and mix on low speed until just moistened. Increase to medium speed and mix for 1-1/2 minutes. Scrape the sides of the bowl and begin to add the egg mixture in 3 separate batches; beat on medium speed for 20 seconds after each addition.
5. Divide the batter into two, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake 25-35 minutes or until a cake tester comes clean when inserted into the center.

Frosting
1. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip butter for 8 minutes on medium speed.
2. Add remaining ingredients and mix for 7 minutes. Frosting will be light, creamy, and fluffy.