Classic Hickory Nut Cake

Ingredients (15)

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1-1/2 cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups cake flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 1 cup finely chopped hickory nuts or walnuts, toasted
• 4 large egg whites
• BUTTER FROSTING:
• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 5 cups confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 4 to 5 tablespoons half-and-half cream