Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch square pan.
2. In a stand mixer, beat butter, sugar, and salt until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
3. In a small bowl, mix milk and almond extract. In another bowl, whisk together cake flour and baking powder.
4. Alternate adding the wet and dry ingredients to the mixer on low speed, mixing until just combined.
5. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gently fold them into the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

Step 2: Whip Up the Frosting

1. Beat butter and salt in a stand mixer until fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, then add heavy whipping cream and vanilla.
3. Beat for 3-4 minutes until smooth, then add blue food coloring one drop at a time until the desired shade is reached.

Step 3: Decorate with the Signature Speckled Look

1. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using an offset spatula.
2. Mix cocoa powder and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
3. Dip a clean paintbrush into the mixture and flick it over the cake to create the speckled effect.