Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or two loaf pans to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures the batter remains smooth and airy.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until incorporated.

Step 5: Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until the batter is smooth. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: If using the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.