Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and cream cheese until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined.
In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, mixing just until combined.
Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations & Tips
If you want to add a bit of texture, try folding in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts before baking. For a more decadent option, you might swirl in some lemon curd or add a simple lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice on top after the bread has cooled. You could even replace the lemon with orange or lime for a different citrus twist. Remember, this recipe is a canvas, so don’t be afraid to make it your own!
