Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Highlighted under: Indulgent Baking Ideas
Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake is a delightful treat that combines the bright, sweet flavor of Meyer lemons with the rich, moist texture of olive oil. This cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests.
This Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake is a family favorite, often requested for special occasions. The unique combination of olive oil and citrus creates a light, moist cake that's bursting with flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Bright and zesty flavor from fresh Meyer lemons
- Moist and tender crumb thanks to the olive oil
- Simple and quick to prepare, perfect for any occasion
The Magic of Meyer Lemons
Meyer lemons are a unique citrus variety that brings a wonderful balance of sweetness and acidity to recipes. Unlike traditional lemons, they have a thinner, smoother skin and a sweeter flesh, which makes them ideal for baking. Their vibrant yellow color and fragrant aroma add not only flavor but also visual appeal to your dishes. When used in this olive oil cake, Meyer lemons elevate the taste, making each bite a refreshing experience.
In addition to their delightful flavor, Meyer lemons are packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants. This means that enjoying a slice of Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake can be a guilt-free indulgence, providing some nutritional benefits along with your dessert. The zest and juice in the cake contribute to its bright taste, while the oil keeps it moist and luscious.
Why Olive Oil?
Using olive oil in baking is not only a health-conscious choice but also enhances the flavor profile of the cake. Extra virgin olive oil is known for its rich, fruity notes which can complement the zesty Meyer lemons beautifully. This oil adds depth to the cake while ensuring a moist texture that can be hard to achieve with butter alone.
Moreover, olive oil is a source of healthy fats and can contribute to heart health when consumed in moderation. By choosing olive oil for this cake, you are embracing a Mediterranean tradition that celebrates wholesome ingredients. Each slice of this cake is not just a treat but also a step towards a healthier lifestyle.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake is versatile enough to be served at any gathering, from casual brunches to elegant dinner parties. Its bright flavor pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a fantastic choice for afternoon snacks. You can also dress it up with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a more sophisticated dessert.
This cake is not just delicious; it's also simple to prepare, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your guests. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a slice of cake with your family, this recipe is sure to impress. Its ease of preparation and beautiful presentation make it a go-to dessert for any baker.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
- Juice of 1 Meyer lemon
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the olive oil, buttermilk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Glaze
While the cake is cooling, mix the powdered sugar with Meyer lemon juice until smooth.
Glaze the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before serving.
Storing Your Cake
To keep your Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, which can prolong its shelf life for up to a week. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving to enhance its flavor and texture.
If you have leftovers, you can also freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bring it back to room temperature before serving.
Customization Ideas
While this Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake is delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Consider adding poppy seeds for a delightful crunch or incorporating herbs like rosemary or thyme for an unexpected twist. These additions can enhance the flavor profile, making the cake uniquely yours.
For a richer experience, you can replace some of the buttermilk with sour cream, which will add a tangy depth to the cake. Additionally, experimenting with different citrus fruits, such as blood oranges or limes, will allow you to create variations that are equally delicious.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish. For added flavor, consider pairing it with a simple lemon curd or a berry compote. This will not only enhance the cake's citrus notes but also add a touch of color to your dessert presentation.
If you're looking to impress your guests even further, consider pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess will balance the zesty flavors of the cake, creating a delightful contrast that everyone will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
Yes, but Meyer lemons have a sweeter flavor, so you may want to adjust the sugar slightly.
→ How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
→ What can I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake is a delightful treat that combines the bright, sweet flavor of Meyer lemons with the rich, moist texture of olive oil. This cake is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Indulgent Baking Ideas
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
- Juice of 1 Meyer lemon
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the olive oil, buttermilk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake is cooling, mix the powdered sugar with Meyer lemon juice until smooth.
Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and let it set before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 39g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 22g
- Protein: 4g