Vanilla Butter Cake with Lemon Glaze

This Vanilla Butter Cake is a delightful blend of traditional baking techniques and a creative lemon glaze that adds a refreshing twist. The cake is rich and buttery, with a tender crumb, perfect for any occasion. The zesty glaze enhances the sweet vanilla flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser that respects classic dessert principles while introducing a touch of brightness.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small bowl.
9. Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
10. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the cooled cake and let it set before slicing.