Cardamom Vanilla Bean Layer Cake

INGREDIENTS

10 1/2 oz

all-purpose flour

3 oz

cornstarch ((9 tablespoons) )

2 tsp

baking powder

1 1/2 tsp

kosher salt

1 1/2 tbsp

ground cardamom

vanilla beans

1 1/2 cups

half-and-half, (or 50% cream + 50% whole milk)

1/4 cup

brandy ((see notes))

2 tbsp

pure vanilla extract

9 oz

unsalted butter, (room temperature)

21 oz

granulated sugar

large eggs, (room temperature)

12 oz

granulated sugar

1/4 cup

+ 2 tablespoons water

1 tsp

corn syrup

large egg whites

16 oz

unsalted butter, (cubed and at room temperature)

vanilla beans

1 tbsp

pure vanilla extract

1/4 tsp

ground cardamom