Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan, ensuring all nooks and crannies are coated to prevent sticking.
• Allow the butter, cream cheese, and eggs to reach room temperature for optimal blending.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

• In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Sugar

• Gradually add the granulated sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Continue mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This ensures the eggs are fully incorporated without overmixing.
• Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 6: Pour into Pan

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

Step 7: Bake

• Bake in the preheated oven for 75–90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Check the cake around the 70-minute mark to prevent overbaking.

Step 8: Cool

• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15–20 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

• While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk or powdered sugar as needed.

Step 10: Glaze the Cake

• Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a decorative finish.