Creating the delightful Lemon Poppy Seed Cake is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk gently to blend.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Mix in the sour cream, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until well combined.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.
7. Fold in Poppy Seeds: Gently fold in the poppy seeds, ensuring even distribution.
8. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before slicing and serving.

These steps will guide you in creating your incredible Lemon Poppy Seed Cake effortlessly!