For the clock face decoration:

* 1 batch of fondant (store-bought or homemade)
* Edible gold paint or luster dust
* Edible silver paint or luster dust
* Black food coloring
* Fine-tipped edible markers or paintbrushes

### Equipment

* 8-inch round cake pans (2)
* Electric mixer
* Offset spatula
* Rolling pin
* Clock face stencil (optional)
* Paintbrushes for edible paints

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Bake the Cake Layers

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with an offset spatula.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

#### Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Once the cake layers have cooled, level the tops if necessary to create a flat surface.
2. Place one cake layer on a serving platter or cake board. Spread a layer of buttercream frosting over the top.
3. Place the second cake layer on top and press down gently to adhere.
4. Apply a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting) over the entire cake to seal in any loose crumbs. Refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes to set the crumb coat.
5. After the crumb coat has set, apply a final layer of buttercream frosting, smoothing it out with an offset spatula to achieve a clean finish.

#### Step 4: Decorate the Clock Face

1. Roll out the fondant on a clean surface dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Using a round cutter or the top of the cake pan as a guide, cut out a circle of fondant to fit the top of the cake.
3. Gently lift the fondant circle and place it on top of the cake, smoothing it out to eliminate any air bubbles.
4. Using edible gold and silver paints or luster dusts, decorate the fondant circle to resemble an antique clock face. You can use a stencil for precision or freehand the design.
5. Use black food coloring and fine-tipped edible markers or paintbrushes to add clock numbers, hands, and other details to the clock face.

#### Step 5: Final Touches

1. Allow the decorated clock face to set for a few hours to ensure the decorations adhere properly.
2. Optionally, you can add additional embellishments such as edible pearls, lace, or floral accents around the base of the cake to enhance its vintage appeal.

## Serving Suggestions

The Antique Clock Cake is a versatile dessert that pairs well with a variety of beverages. Consider serving it with:

* A glass of champagne or sparkling wine for a celebratory touch.
* A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea to complement the flavors.
* A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent treat.

## Variations

While the classic Antique Clock Cake is a delightful choice, you can customize it to suit different tastes and occasions:

* **Flavored Cake Layers**: Experiment with different cake flavors such as chocolate, lemon, or almond to add variety.
* **Themed Decorations**: Customize the clock face design to match the theme of your event, such as using pastel colors for a spring celebration or metallic tones for a New Year’s Eve party.
* **Miniature Versions**: Create individual-sized clock cakes by baking in smaller pans and decorating accordingly.

## Conclusion

The Antique Clock Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a statement piece that showcases your baking skills and creativity. With its intricate design and delicious flavors, it’s sure to be the centerpiece of any celebration. Whether you’re honoring a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is a timeless choice that will leave a lasting impression.