Creating a fabulous Galaxy Cake is simple when you follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly combined.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.

4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until well-blended and no lumps remain.

5. Divide Batter: Split the batter into four separate bowls. Leave one bowl as is and color the others with blue, purple, and pink food coloring to create vibrant colors.

6. Layer the Batter: Using a spoon, drop dollops of each color into the prepared pans, alternating colors to create the galaxy effect.

7. Bake the Cakes: Place the cake pans in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the Cakes: After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for 15 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

9. Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low until well blended. Add heavy cream until you reach your desired frosting consistency.

10. Assemble the Cake: Once the layers are completely cool, place one layer on a cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting on top before adding the second layer, repeating the process until all three layers are stacked.

11. Decorate the Cake: Use the remaining frosting to cover the entire cake. Create swirls using different colors of frosting, resembling a galaxy.

12. Finish with Glitter: For an extra sparkle, top with edible glitter or stars, enhancing the cosmic theme.

With these detailed steps, you’ll find creating your Galaxy Cake manageable and enjoyable.