Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or tube pan, ensuring all crevices are coated to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup softened butter and 2 cups granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time
Add the 4 eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Step 5: Incorporate Lemon and Vanilla
Mix in the 2 tablespoons lemon zest and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Liquids
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the 1 cup buttermilk and 1/4 cup lemon juice.
Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
Mix on low speed just until each addition is incorporated—avoid overmixing.
Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Start checking for doneness at the 60-minute mark.
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Prepare the Lemon Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon lemon zest.
Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar (to thicken) or lemon juice (to thin) as needed.
Step 11: Glaze the Cake
Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to run down the sides.
For a neater presentation, place a sheet of parchment paper under the rack to catch any excess glaze.
Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes before slicing.
Serve the cake at room temperature, and enjoy!
Notes
Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor—avoid bottled juice if possible.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Properly Grease the Pan: To prevent sticking, thoroughly grease and flour the Bundt pan, reaching all the grooves.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender.
Test for Doneness: Ovens vary, so use a toothpick to check if the cake is baked through.