Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for extra protection.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
Step 4: In another bowl, mix together the water, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, sour cream, and egg whites. Stir until combined.
Step 5: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 6: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 8: In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue to mix. Add in the clear vanilla extract and heavy whipping cream, mixing until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Step 9: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.
Step 10: Feel free to decorate the cake with fresh flowers, sprinkles, or any other embellishments that suit your occasion.