Crockpot Pasta Fagioli: A Hearty and Comforting Italian Soup

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the buttermilk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Vanilla Custard Filling
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it just begins to steam.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth.
Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and comes to a boil.
Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract.
Transfer the custard to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing it directly onto the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate until completely chilled, about 1-2 hours.
Step 3: Prepare the Peach Topping
While the cake and custard are cooling, slice the peaches and drizzle with honey or sugar, if desired, to enhance their sweetness. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer of the cake on a serving platter.
Spread a generous amount of chilled vanilla custard over the first cake layer.
Top with the second cake layer and gently press down.
Spread another layer of custard on top of the cake, then arrange the sliced peaches on top of the custard.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
Step 5: Serve
Slice and serve the cake chilled, and enjoy the refreshing combination of lemon, peach, and creamy custard in every bite.
Serving and Storage Tips