LEMON CAKE WITH IRISH BREAKFAST TEA FROSTING

Steps:

• Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pans). Grease bottom only of one 8- or 9-inch round cake pan with shortening (do not use cooking spray). Place paper baking cup in each of 12 regular-size muffin cups.
• Make cake batter as directed on box; stir in lemon peel. Fill muffin cups two-thirds full of batter; pour remaining batter into pan.
• Bake round pan 28 to 33 minutes, cupcakes 15 to 20 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes; remove from pans to cooling rack. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.
• Meanwhile, place 1/2 cup water in microwavable 1-cup glass measuring cup. Microwave uncovered on High 1 minute to 1 minute 30 seconds or until hot. Add tea bags; steep 6 to 7 minutes for strong brewed tea. Remove and discard tea bags.
• Meanwhile, in 2-quart saucepan, mix sugar, cream of tartar, brewed tea and salt. Heat to boiling over medium-high heat. Boil 3 to 5 minutes to 242°F on candy thermometer.
• In large bowl, beat egg whites with electric mixer on high speed until foamy and thick (they should mound but not peak). Slowly pour in boiling sugar syrup in a slow stream. Continue to beat on high speed about 7 minutes or until stiff peaks form.
• Cut cake layer in half horizontally to make 2 thin cake layers. Place one layer on serving plate. Spread with about 3/4 cup of the frosting. Top with remaining cake layer; spread with about 3/4 cup of the frosting. Frost cupcakes with remaining frosting. Garnish with lemon slices.