Ensure that the greaseproof paper comes above the tin by about 9cm/3in so the top of the cake doesn’t burn. For the 30cm/12in tier, cream the butter and sugar together in a bowl until well combined.
But for some time now, this has been the chosen one, the cake of cakes, elected to grace many special occasions – and with good reason. See Recipe Tip for details of how to make a 2-tiered cake.