Zebra Layer Cake

INGREDIENTS

and 1/2 cups (400g) sifted all-purpose flour*

1 tsp

salt

1 tsp

baking powder

3/4 tsp

baking soda

and 1/2 cups (3 sticks; 345g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

2 cups

granulated sugar

large eggs, at room temperature

1/3 cup

sour cream, at room temperature

1 tbsp

pure vanilla extract (yes, Tbsp!)

and 3/4 cups (420ml) buttermilk, at room temperature

1/3 cup

unsweetened natural cocoa powder

2 tbsp

granulated sugar

2 tbsp

milk or buttermilk, at room temperature

1 tsp

espresso powder (optional)

12 oz

full fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature*

3/4 cup

unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

and 1/2 cups (420g) confectioners' sugar

2/3 cup

unsweetened natural or dutch-process cocoa powder

1 tsp

pure vanilla extract

1 tbsp

milk or heavy cream

salt

sprinkles for decorating, if desired