INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment.
Incorporate the Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Add the Lemon Flavor: Mix in the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest until evenly distributed throughout the batter, infusing it with bright citrus flavor.
Combine with Sour Cream and Cream Cheese: Add the sour cream and softened cream cheese to the batter, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough bread.
Pour into the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake to Perfection: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Cool and Glaze: Allow the Lemon Cream Cheese Bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. While the bread is cooling, prepare the lemon glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice until smooth.
Drizzle with Glaze: Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a beautiful finish.
Slice and Serve: Slice the Lemon Cream Cheese Bread into thick, decadent slices and serve with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate indulgence. Watch as your loved ones' faces light up with delight at the sight (and taste) of this sunshine-infused treat.
