Ingredients: Cake: 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour 2 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar 4 large eggs Zest of 2 lemons 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk Lemon Drizzle: 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar 3–4 tbsp lemon juice (adjust for desired consistency) Frosting: 1 1/2 cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar 2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk) 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 tsp vanilla extract Crunch Topping: 1/2 cup (75g) crushed shortbread cookies or graham crackers 1 tbsp granulated sugar 1 tbsp melted butter Instructions: 1. Bake the Cake Layers: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry mix. Mix until just combined. Divide batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. 2. Prepare the Crunch Topping: In a small bowl, mix crushed cookies, sugar, and melted butter. Toast lightly in the oven for 5–7 minutes at 350°F, then set aside to cool. 3. Make the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Add heavy cream, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy. 4. Assemble: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting. Add the second cake layer and frost the entire cake, smoothing the edges and top. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides. Pipe decorative frosting dollops around the top edge and sprinkle the crunch topping generously over the cake. Enjoy your vibrant and citrusy Lemon Crunch Cake! Let me know if you'd like more tips or variations! 😊
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