Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Set the temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare the pan: Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or a Bundt pan.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and poppy seeds.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• Beat butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Add the Lemon Flavor

• Incorporate lemon zest, juice, and vanilla: Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract for a bright citrusy flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Alternate additions: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

• Transfer to pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf or Bundt pan.
• Bake until done: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

• Mix glaze ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

• Let the cake cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
• Drizzle with glaze: Pour the lemon glaze over the slightly warm cake for maximum absorption.
• Slice and enjoy: Serve with tea, coffee, or fresh berries.