Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly and rises properly.
Step 2: Grease your 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 4: In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, melted butter, sour cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until there are no visible flour streaks.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the fresh lemon juice and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Set aside to cool.
Step 8: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack.
Step 9: While still warm, poke holes in the top using a toothpick or skewer. Drizzle the lemon syrup over the top, allowing it to soak in.
Step 10: Once completely cool, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar and lemon juice to make the glaze. Adjust consistency as needed.
Step 11: Drizzle the lemon glaze over the top of the cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides.
Step 12: Allow the glaze to set, then slice the cake and serve. Enjoy the burst of lemon flavor!