Name: Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1½ cups cake flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1¼ cups granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons Meyer lemon zest; 4 eggs; 2 teaspoons Meyer lemon juice; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup Meyer lemon juice

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There’s something magical about the aroma of a freshly baked Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake wafting through the kitchen. It takes me back to sunny afternoons spent in my grandmother’s garden, where she’d pluck the ripest lemons and turn them into the most enchanting desserts. This cake is an ode to those memories, a perfect blend of tartness and sweetness, with a texture that’s both moist and fluffy. When I bake this Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake, I can almost hear her laughter and feel the warmth of the sun on my skin. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a slice of nostalgia that I love to share with family and friends. Each bite is like a little burst of sunshine, making any day feel special. Whether it’s a casual brunch with friends or a cozy family gathering, this cake always steals the spotlight. Let’s dive into the reasons why this recipe is a must-try!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
50 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
4 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Food Processor, Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Large Pot, Whisk, Saucepan, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

What We Adore About This Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake

Fresh and Vibrant Flavor

One of the standout qualities of the Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake is its bright, refreshing flavor. The use of Meyer lemons gives this cake a unique sweetness and less acidity compared to regular lemons. This balance creates a delightful taste that is both uplifting and comforting. You really get that zesty kick in every slice!

Easily Customizable

What I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to fit your preferences. Want a more intense lemon flavor? Add more lemon zest. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some poppy seeds or blueberries for a burst of color and texture. The Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake serves as a fantastic base that lends itself well to various additions.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This cake is not limited to just one type of gathering. It’s a wonderful addition to any brunch table, a delightful afternoon treat with tea, or even a light dessert after dinner. I find it especially lovely during springtime when the flavors of citrus are at their peak. Imagine serving this cake at a spring picnic or a family celebration—it’s bound to impress!

Simple Yet Impressive

For those who might feel intimidated by baking, this Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create something that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy bakery. Your friends and family will be amazed, and they won’t believe how easy it was!

Moist and Tender Texture

One of the keys to a successful loaf cake is its texture, and this recipe delivers wonderfully! The combination of unsalted butter and eggs ensures that the cake is rich and moist, while the careful mixing technique keeps it light and airy. Each slice is tender, making it a delightful experience for anyone who takes a bite.

Great for Leftovers

Believe it or not, this cake actually tastes better the next day. As it sits, the flavors meld beautifully, and the lemon glaze seeps into the cake, enhancing its moisture and flavor. It stays fresh for several days when wrapped properly, making it perfect for meal prep or as a delicious breakfast option throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake

Creating the perfect Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, not only in flavor but also in texture. The combination of fresh Meyer lemon zest and juice, paired with the richness of butter and eggs, creates a wonderfully moist cake. Let’s go over what you’ll need to bring this delightful treat to life!

1½ cups cake flour (187.5g): The lightness of cake flour is essential for achieving that fluffy texture. It has a lower protein content, which keeps the cake tender.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise and become airy.
½ teaspoon salt: A touch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
1¼ cups granulated sugar (250g): This is the main sweetener, providing the cake with its sugary delight.
2 tablespoons Meyer lemon zest: Zest adds a powerful, aromatic element that infuses the cake with a vibrant lemon flavor.
4 eggs: Eggs contribute to the richness of the cake and help bind the ingredients together.
2 teaspoons Meyer lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavor and adds moisture.
1 cup unsalted butter, melted (227g): The butter adds richness and helps keep the cake moist.
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
½ cup granulated sugar (100g): This additional sugar is used in the glaze to give a sweet finish.
¼ cup Meyer lemon juice (61ml): This is used in the glaze for a deliciously tangy topping.

Directions for Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake

Making the Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with the most wonderful aromas. Follow these steps to ensure the best results. You’ll love how simple it is!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While that’s heating up, take a moment to grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This step is crucial to ensure your cake comes out easily once baked.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. This mixture needs to be set aside as it will be folded into the wet ingredients later, so ensure it’s well-combined.
Next, add the granulated sugar and Meyer lemon zest into the bowl of a food processor. Process this mixture until it’s combined, which should take about five one-second pulses. This step helps to release the essential oils from the zest, enhancing the flavor.
Add the eggs, Meyer lemon juice, and vanilla extract to the food processor. Process until everything is well combined, which will take about 5 seconds. The mixture will become smooth and creamy, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
While the machine is still running, slowly drizzle in the melted butter through the feed tube. This steady stream will help emulsify the ingredients, creating a beautiful batter.
Once combined, transfer this mixture to a large mixing bowl. Now it’s time to sift the flour mixture over the wet ingredients in three additions. After each addition, gently whisk to combine until the batter is just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the cake.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. After this time, reduce the temperature to 325 degrees F (163 degrees C) and continue baking for an additional 35 minutes. You’re looking for a deep golden brown color and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. This waiting period allows the cake to set slightly and makes it easier to remove.
In the meantime, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining granulated sugar and Meyer lemon juice. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until it thickens slightly, around 2 minutes.
Once the cake is slightly cooled, carefully remove it from the pan and place it on a wire rack. Using a toothpick, poke holes all over the top and sides of the cake. This allows the glaze to soak in, enhancing the flavor.
Brush the warm lemon glaze generously over the top and sides of the cake. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature, which should take at least 1 hour. This cake can be stored at room temperature, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to 5 days.

Things Worth Knowing

Understanding Meyer Lemons: Meyer lemons are sweeter and less acidic than regular lemons, making them perfect for desserts. They bring a unique flavor that elevates the cake.
Temperature Matters: Baking at the correct temperature is crucial. If your oven runs hot, keep an eye on the cake to prevent over-browning.
Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, use room temperature eggs and butter. This will help the batter emulsify properly.
Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool properly ensures it holds its shape and doesn’t crumble when sliced.

Substitutions and Tips

Here are some helpful tips and substitutions to keep in mind while making your Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake. With these in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a perfect bake!

Storage: Store your Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for about 5 days.
Freezing: You can freeze this cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for best results.
Pairing: This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Serve it at brunch or as a light dessert after dinner.
Variations: Try adding poppy seeds, blueberries, or even a drizzle of white chocolate for an extra indulgent touch!
Glazing Tips: For a thicker glaze, let it cool for a few minutes before applying it to the cake.
Testing Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake to check for doneness—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!

Serving Options for Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake

When it comes to serving your Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake, the options are plentiful! Here are some great ideas to enhance your serving experience:

Afternoon Tea: Serve slices alongside a selection of teas. The tartness of the cake complements the soothing qualities of tea perfectly.
Brunch Delight: Pair with fruit salad and yogurt for a refreshing brunch spread.
With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for a decadent dessert option.
For Celebrations: This cake can be dressed up with decorative glaze or lemon slices for special occasions.
Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy during springtime when lemons are in season, celebrating their fresh flavor.
Leftover Treats: Keep leftover slices wrapped for quick snacks throughout the week!

FAQ

Meyer lemons are distinct due to their sweeter flavor and less acidity compared to regular lemons. They are a hybrid of a lemon and a mandarin orange, contributing to their unique taste. This makes them ideal for desserts like the Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake, as they add a pleasant brightness without overwhelming tartness. When using Meyer lemons, you’ll notice a more aromatic and delicate flavor profile, perfect for enhancing baked goods.

Yes, absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake, feel free to increase the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe. Conversely, you can reduce the sugar slightly if you’d like a less sweet cake. Just keep in mind that sugar also contributes to the cake’s moisture and texture, so make adjustments carefully. Additionally, drizzling a glaze made from lemon juice and sugar at the end adds a nice finishing touch of sweetness.

The best way to check if your Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake is done is by using a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. You should also look for a deep golden brown color on the top. If the cake is still wet or if the toothpick comes out with batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Remember to rotate the pan halfway through for even baking.

Yes! Freezing is a great option for preserving your Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake. To freeze, make sure the cake is completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or in the fridge overnight before serving. This retains its wonderful texture and flavor.

Conclusion

The Meyer Lemon Loaf Cake is truly a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to any table. Its moist texture and vibrant flavor make it a standout dessert. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s simple enough for a weekday bake yet impressive enough for company. Enjoy each slice and make wonderful memories with family and friends!