01 -
Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) standard or 140°C (280°F) fan. Grease and line two 20cm (8-inch) round springform cake tins with baking paper.
02 -
Combine the room temperature butter and caster sugar in a large bowl. Cream together using a stand mixer, electric hand mixer, or wooden spoon, until the mixture is smooth, light, and fluffy.
03 -
Mix in the eggs one at a time along with the milk, ensuring the mixture remains smooth.
04 -
Gently fold in the sieved self-raising flour, a bit at a time, until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
05 -
Evenly distribute the batter between the prepared tins. Smooth the tops and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the tins for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
06 -
Once the cakes have cooled completely, level them with a knife if domed. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake board.
07 -
In a bowl, whisk the double cream with the vanilla extract and 1.5 tablespoons of icing sugar (if using) until soft peaks form.
08 -
Spread the jam over the top of the base cake layer, followed by the whipped cream. Carefully place the second cake layer upside down on top, pressing gently to secure.
09 -
Dust with the remaining icing sugar if using. Slice and serve.