White House Vanilla Cake

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Step 2: Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3: Thoroughly brush the insides of two 8- or 9-inch (2-inch high) cake pans with shortening and dust with flour.

Step 4: Using an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment

Step 5: Cream the butter until very smooth.

Step 6: With the mixer on medium speed, slowly add in the sugar.

Step 7: Continuing to mix on medium speed slowly add in the eggs one at a time .

Step 8: Stir in the vanilla and zest, if using.

Step 9: On low speed

Step 10: Slowly add flour mixture and milk, alternating between the two.

Step 11: Start and end with the flour mixture.

Step 12: Divide the batter evenly between the two pans.

Step 13: Bake for about 35 minutes, until the tops are firm to the touch.

Step 14: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 15 minutes.

Step 15: Invert the cakes onto cooling racks and let cool thoroughly before frosting.