Step 1

FIRST STEP:Preheat the oven to 350*

Step 3

Spray the pans with a nonstick spray

Step 5

SECOND STEP:In a large bowl sift together the flour, baking powder and salt

Step 7

THIRD STEP:In another bowl, beat together the butter and the sugar

Step 9

Add in the eggs and the vanilla, beat until combined

Step 11

Slowly add in the dry ingredients, mixing a small amount at a time

Step 13

Add in the buttermilk, lemon juice and the lemon zest

Step 15

FOURTH STEP:Pour the batter evenly between the three pans

Step 17

FFITH STEP:Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, using a toothpick in the center to test for doneness

Step 19

Frosting:SIXTH STEP:Cream together all ingredients until stiff peaks form

Step 21

When cakes are cooled, slice off the rounded top with a cake slicer from each layer

Step 23

Place one layer on a serving plate

Step 25

SEVENTH STEP:Use between ¾ to 1 cup of frosting on the top of this layer

Step 27

Place another layer on the top and repeat with the frosting

Step 29

Top with the final layer of cake

Step 31

EIGHTH STEP:Spread half of the remaining frosting over the top and the sides of the cake

Step 33

With the other half, scoop the frosting into a piping bag

Step 35

Using the piping bag, place dollops all over the top and the sides of the cake

Step 37

The larger dollops should be on the top

Step 39

Place half slices of lemon in between the large dollops

Step 41

Enjoy!