Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix each addition just until combined; do not overmix.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
Run a knife around the edges of the pans, then invert the cakes onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting or serving.