Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Pans

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar

1. In a separate bowl, beat butter, sugar, and oil until light and fluffy.
2. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition.
3. Stir in lemon zest and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

1. Mix in lemon juice and buttermilk until smooth.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
3. Do not overmix—this keeps the cake light and airy!

Step 5: Bake the Cake

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Make the Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, followed by lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla.
3. If frosting is too soft, chill for 15 minutes before spreading.

Step 7: Assemble & Decorate

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with frosting.
2. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.
3. Garnish with lemon slices, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.