Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans to ensure the cakes release easily.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for a light texture in your cake.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake.

Step 6: Color the Batter

Divide the batter into three bowls. Color one portion yellow, one orange, and leave one plain. Use food coloring to achieve your desired shades, mixing until evenly colored.

Step 7: Layer the Cake

Spoon the yellow batter into one prepared pan, then add the orange batter to the second pan. Finally, pour the plain batter into the last pan. Gently smooth the tops with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake the Cakes

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and enough milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 10: Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, it’s time to assemble! Place the yellow cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then sprinkle a generous amount of candy corn over the frosting.

Step 11: Add the Orange Layer

Place the orange cake layer on top of the candy corn-covered yellow layer. Repeat the frosting and candy corn steps.

Step 12: Top with the Final Layer

Finally, add the plain cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Step 13: Decorate the Cake

For added flair, decorate the top of the cake with more candy corn, sprinkles, or any other Halloween-themed decorations you like.

Step 14: Chill and Serve

For best results, refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes before serving to set the frosting. Then, slice and enjoy the surprise inside!