Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl: flour, sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, and salt.
Cream butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each.
Incorporate lemon zest for vibrant citrus flavor.
Gradually alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing gently.
Fold in lemon juice and poppy seeds without overmixing.
Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-55 minutes.
Test doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.
Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt.
Drizzle glaze over the cooled cake and garnish with extra poppy seeds or lemon zest.