Meyer Lemon Drizzle Cakes are a simple yet delectable dessert that offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The combination of Meyer lemon juice with a soft, moist cake creates a treat that will captivate anyone who tastes it. This cake is ideal for various occasions, whether you’re celebrating a special event or just want to enjoy a light dessert after a meal. With its refreshing citrus notes, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The recipe is straightforward and takes minimal time, allowing you to prepare it without much effort.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup Meyer lemon juice
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
Preparation Time:
- Active preparation: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 30-35 minutes
- Cooling time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your bundt cake pan or muffin tin with cooking spray or butter to ensure that your cakes do not stick. - Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients need to be combined thoroughly to avoid uneven mixing later. Set this bowl aside. - Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a separate mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for the texture of your cake, as it will make the cake more airy. - Add the Eggs:
Once the butter and sugar are well mixed, add the eggs, one at a time. Be sure to mix well after each addition to ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated into the batter. - Incorporate the Wet Ingredients:
Next, stir in the milk and vanilla extract into the butter and egg mixture. Mix until everything is just combined. You should notice a smooth and slightly thick batter. - Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix gently until there are no visible streaks of flour. Be careful not to over-mix, as this could lead to a denser cake. - Add Meyer Lemon Juice:
Finally, fold in the freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice into the batter. Meyer lemons add a wonderful, aromatic tang that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake. The juice will infuse the batter with flavor, making it fragrant and vibrant. - Pour and Bake:
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan or muffin tin. Spread the batter evenly and smooth the top. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. - Cool the Cake:
After baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the Drizzle:
While the cake is cooling, make the Meyer lemon drizzle. In a small bowl, mix the confectioners’ sugar with the remaining Meyer lemon juice to create a smooth, pourable glaze. The drizzle should have a slightly thick consistency but still be runny enough to coat the cake. - Finish and Serve:
Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the Meyer lemon glaze over the top. Allow the drizzle to soak in slightly before slicing and serving.
This Meyer Lemon Drizzle Cake offers the perfect balance of citrusy freshness and a soft, moist crumb. The combination of the tangy lemon glaze with the fluffy cake creates an irresistible dessert that is both light and indulgent. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of tea or serving it for a special occasion, this cake will quickly become a favorite. With its easy preparation and minimal baking time, it’s a dessert that’s perfect for anyone, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out in the kitchen.
This cake is sure to impress your family and friends with its delightful flavor and simple elegance. Enjoy the vibrant Meyer lemon flavors, and let this easy-to-make cake brighten your day!