Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or a tube pan, ensuring every crevice is covered to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is essential for creating a silky and rich texture in your cake.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Eggs

Gradually add the sugar to the butter-cream cheese mixture, beating well after each addition. Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition until well incorporated.

Step 4: Incorporate Vanilla and Dry Ingredients

Mix in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Pour Batter into the Pan

Carefully pour the batter into the prepared Bundt or tube pan. Smooth out the top using a spatula to ensure even baking.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 80-90 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Check for doneness around the 75-minute mark.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries and whipped cream before serving.