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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
#### **1. Bake the Cake**
1. Preheat oven to **350°F (175°C)** and grease a **9-inch round cake pan**.
2. In a bowl, whisk together **flour, baking powder, and salt**.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the **butter and sugar** until light and fluffy.
4. Add the **eggs one at a time**, then stir in the **vanilla extract**.
5. Alternately mix in the **dry ingredients and milk**, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for **25–30 minutes**, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool completely, then slice it into **two layers**.
#### **2. Make the Pastry Cream**
1. In a saucepan, heat **milk, sugar, and salt** over medium heat until steaming.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the **egg yolks and cornstarch**.
3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook until thickened (about **2–3 minutes**).
5. Remove from heat and stir in **butter and vanilla extract**.
6. Cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming) and let it cool.
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## **Final Thoughts**
