Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar, beating until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

1. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
2. Mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and fresh lemon juice.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk or buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.

Step 6: Bake the Loaf

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Cool the Loaf

1. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
2. Use the parchment overhang to lift the loaf out of the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Lemon Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Add more lemon juice for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency.
2. Stir in lemon zest if desired.

Step 9: Glaze the Loaf

1. Once the loaf is completely cool, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top.
2. Allow the glaze to set for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.