Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350F degrees. Grease and flour an 8 x 4-inch loaf pan, or line with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a medium bowl whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda & salt.

Step 3

In a separate bowl beat together the butter and sugar until fluffy - this will take at least 3 minutes.

Step 4

Mix in the eggs 1 at a time. Then mix in the vanilla extract, optional lemon extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

Step 5

With the mixer on low speed, mix in about 1/2 of the flour mixture followed by about 1/2 of the buttermilk. Turn off the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl.

Step 6

Repeat the process with the rest of the flour mixture and buttermilk.

Step 7

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes. It will be done when an inserted toothpick comes out clean and the top feels firm to the touch. If after about 30-40 minutes the top is browning too much, tent a piece of aluminum foil over top and continue baking.

Step 8

Cool the loaf fully before icing (otherwise, the icing will melt through the cake and run off the sides).

Step 9

In a medium bowl whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and cream/milk until smooth. Add in more powdered sugar or cream as needed for desired consistency.

Step 10

Remove the cooled loaf from the pan and drizzle or pour over top.