1. Make the Cake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
5. Mix in vanilla and almond extract.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
7. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk.
8. Divide batter between pans.
9. Bake 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Cool completely.

2. Make the Frosting

1. Beat butter until creamy (2 minutes).
2. Add powdered sugar gradually.
3. Add vanilla, salt, and milk until fluffy and spreadable.
4. Tint frosting if desired.

3. Assemble the Cake

1. Level cake layers if needed.
2. Spread frosting between the two cakes.
3. Apply a thin crumb coat and chill for 20 minutes.
4. Frost the outside smoothly or with texture.

4. Decorate with Rock Candy

1. Press crushed rock candy or crystals along the sides or top.
2. Create a “geode” look by forming a cluster in a carved-out section.
3. Mix colors for a magical winter effect.
4. Add edible glitter or snowflake sprinkles.

5. Serve

• Slice with a warm knife to cut smoothly through rock candy.
• Enjoy immediately or store covered.