Meyer Lemon Cake: Best Moist Citrus Dessert Recipe

Meyer lemon cake is a sweet, tangy treat that will brighten up any occasion. Made with a trio of Meyer lemons in every slice – from the batter to the glaze – this cake delivers a burst of citrus flavor that is both refreshing and indulgent. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something bright and flavorful, this Meyer lemon cake is the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Meyer Lemon Cake

Meyer lemon cake combines the rich, buttery texture of a traditional pound cake with the lively flavor of Meyer lemons. The combination of tangy citrus and moist cake makes it a delightful dessert that’s ideal for any time of year. Whether it’s the holiday season, a birthday, or just a cozy afternoon treat, this cake offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe, making it easy even for beginners to bake with confidence.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Meyer Lemon Cake

Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Meyer lemon cake. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the moist, flavorful cake that you’ll enjoy!

• All-purpose flour: The base for the cake, providing structure and texture.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These help the cake rise, creating a light and airy texture.
• Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the sweetness.
• Cultured unsalted butter: Adds a rich, creamy flavor and moisture to the cake.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping with the texture.
• Meyer lemon zest: Provides a fragrant citrus aroma and intense lemon flavor.
• Plain yogurt: Adds moisture and contributes to the cake’s tender texture.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• Meyer lemon juice: Adds the signature tart and citrusy punch.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Meyer Lemon Cake

If you’re looking for alternatives or substitutions for any ingredients, here are a few ideas:

• For the yogurt: If you don’t have plain yogurt, you can substitute with sour cream or buttermilk. Both will keep the cake moist and tender while adding a slight tang.
• For the butter: You can replace unsalted butter with margarine or a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free option.
• For the Meyer lemon: If Meyer lemons aren’t available, regular lemons will work, though they tend to be more tart.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Meyer Lemon Cake

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Meyer lemon cake. Each step ensures your cake rises beautifully and is infused with the right amount of citrus flavor.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch by 4 ¼-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, plain yogurt, Meyer lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
4. In a stand mixer or using a hand mixer, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and Meyer lemon zest on medium speed for about 5 minutes, until light and fluffy.
5. Gradually add 1/3 of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, followed by half of the yogurt mixture. Continue alternating between adding the flour and yogurt mixtures until everything is fully combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. While the cake is baking, prepare the Meyer lemon simple syrup by heating the granulated sugar and Meyer lemon juice in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves completely.
8. When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and carefully pour or spoon the Meyer lemon syrup over the hot cake. Let the syrup soak in before adding more.
9. Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and Meyer lemon juice until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled cake, allowing it to set before slicing.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Meyer Lemon Cake

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your Meyer lemon cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t overmix the batter: To avoid a dense cake, mix only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can cause the cake to become tough.
• Check the cake’s doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. Insert it into the center, and if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
• Make it ahead: This Meyer lemon cake stays fresh for several days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it moist.
• Enhance the flavor: If you want an even more intense lemon flavor, add a bit more Meyer lemon zest to the batter or glaze.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Meyer Lemon Cake

Meyer lemon cake pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are a few ideas to complement your dessert:

• Clotted cream or whipped cream: Serve with a dollop of clotted cream for a rich and decadent finish.
• Fresh berries: Add a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries on the side for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Iced tea or lemonade: Pair with a refreshing iced tea or homemade lemonade to complement the citrusy flavor.

You can also make this cake more decadent by adding a layer of lemon curd between the slices or incorporating poppy seeds for a slight crunch. For a dairy-free version, swap the yogurt and butter with suitable plant-based alternatives.

Health Benefits of Meyer Lemons in This Cake

Meyer lemons are not only flavorful but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants. They’re a good source of Vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system, and they have a lower acidity than regular lemons, making them gentler on the stomach. With their natural sweetness, Meyer lemons also help reduce the need for excess sugar in your baking, making this cake a more balanced choice.

Conclusion

Meyer lemon cake is a delightful dessert that brings the perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy tang in every bite. Its moist, buttery texture, combined with the refreshing burst of Meyer lemon, makes it an ideal treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a little self-care, this cake is sure to brighten your day. With easy-to-follow steps and a few simple ingredients, you can create a stunning dessert that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Serve it with a dollop of cream or fresh berries for an extra touch, and enjoy the delicious results.

FAQs About Meyer Lemon Cake

More Relevant Recipes

• Mandarin Orange Pound Cake: This cake combines the delicate sweetness of mandarin oranges with the rich, buttery texture of a traditional pound cake. It’s a citrus-forward dessert that provides a similar fresh, zesty flavor to the Meyer lemon cake, making it perfect for those who enjoy vibrant citrus desserts.
• Lemon Thyme Cake: A wonderful alternative to the classic lemon cake, this version incorporates fragrant thyme with tangy lemon, creating a refreshing yet savory flavor profile. If you love the citrus notes in Meyer lemon cake, this herb-infused cake offers a unique twist on the traditional flavor combination.
• Lemon Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: For those who crave an even creamier, richer lemon dessert, this lemon sheet cake topped with smooth cream cheese frosting provides the perfect balance of sweet and tart. It’s a great option for gatherings, offering a deliciously moist cake with a tangy, creamy topping that echoes the citrusy goodness of the Meyer lemon cake.

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