Preparation:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or line it with baking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure the mixture is fully incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed to avoid overmixing.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, followed by the milk and vanilla extract.
3. Mix until the glaze reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Add more milk if needed.

Step 5: Glaze the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful presentation.