The baker responsible for crafting Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's wedding cake has unveiled a stunning creation for their daughter Lilibet's first birthday.
The £244 floral two-tiered strawberry buttercream cake took center stage at the couple's relaxed garden party on the Windsor estate, complete with birthday cake balloons, party games, and picnic snacks.
However, as royal enthusiasts gushed over the delightful confection and Lilibet's adorable birthday snapshot, whispers of potential photoshopping began to circulate among fans.
Claire Ptack, the talented East London baker behind both the royal wedding cake in 2018 and Lilibet's birthday treats, showcased her handiwork on Instagram, dubbing it “Our 2022 greatest hits.”
The exquisite cake boasted layers infused with the essence of Amalfi coast lemons and adorned with candied lemon peel—a true feast for the senses.
Claire expressed her delight in creating the special cake for Lilibet, offering well-wishes for the young princess's year ahead.
In a heartwarming gesture, the inside of the cake featured a delectable combination of Amalfi lemon and elderflower, reminiscent of the flavors served at the Duke and Duchess' nuptials.
This time, however, the cake was cloaked in a luscious strawberry buttercream tailored specifically for Lilibet's celebration.
The couple later shared snippets from the event in their revealing Netflix documentary, capturing precious moments as Harry and Meghan joined Lilibet in blowing out the candles.
Amidst the festivities, eagle-eyed viewers couldn't help but raise questions about the authenticity of the event's setting.
Speculations arose regarding the location of the celebration, with some suggesting discrepancies between the garden scenes depicted in the photos and known locales associated with the Sussexes.
Netizens pointed out details such as distinct lawn chairs that seemed out of place, sparking debates about the logistics of transporting furniture across continents for the occasion.
While the Sussexes refrained from disclosing the full guest list for Lilibet's birthday bash, reports hinted at the presence of Zara and Mike Tyndall, along with their children, among the attendees.
Notably absent were Prince William, Catherine, and their children, who were fulfilling official duties in Wales during the Platinum Jubilee.
Other familiar faces said to have graced Frogmore Cottage included the Tyndalls' offspring, Peter Phillips and Autumn Kelly's daughters, and close family friends like Archie's godfather Charlie Van Straubenzee.
Critics chimed in on the perceived simplicity of the gathering, contrasting it with traditional birthday party elements like fellow parents, festive decorations, and an array of snacks.
The absence of these typical features led to further skepticism about the authenticity of the occasion, with some scrutinizing details in the photos for signs of digital manipulation.
Observers highlighted inconsistencies in lighting and shadows, fueling suspicions of potential photo editing techniques employed to enhance the visuals.
As discussions surrounding Lilibet's birthday affair continue to unfold, the public remains captivated by the intimate glimpses into the Sussexes' family life.
Despite lingering uncertainties and speculations, the joyous occasion serves as a reminder of the love and warmth shared within the royal circle, offering a rare peek behind the curtains of a modern-day fairy tale.
