Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake

Name: Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil; 2 large eggs; 1 cup Meyer lemon juice (about 4 lemons); 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice

Highlighted under: Oven-Baked Delights

A delightful and moist cake infused with the zesty flavor of Meyer lemons and the richness of olive oil.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2025-12-20T10:33:49.342Z

This Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake is a perfect blend of citrusy brightness and a moist texture, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and refreshing lemon flavor that invigorates the senses
Moist and tender crumb thanks to high-quality olive oil
Easy to make with simple ingredients, perfect for any skill level

      

The Unique Flavor of Meyer Lemons

Meyer lemons are a delightful cross between a traditional lemon and a mandarin orange, offering a sweeter and less acidic flavor profile. This unique citrus fruit brings a bright, refreshing taste to the cake, making it stand out among common lemon desserts. With their thin, smooth skin and vibrant yellow-orange hue, Meyer lemons not only enhance the flavor but also add a beautiful aesthetic to your baking.

When using Meyer lemons in this recipe, you’ll notice their fragrant aroma and juicy flesh bring a subtle complexity to the cake. The combination of their zest and juice creates a harmonious balance, ensuring each bite is infused with the perfect amount of citrusy goodness. This makes the Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake a perfect choice for spring gatherings or any occasion that calls for a light, uplifting dessert.

The Benefits of Using Olive Oil

Incorporating olive oil into this cake not only enhances its moisture but also contributes health benefits. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help to lower bad cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and support overall wellness. Choosing high-quality extra-virgin olive oil ensures you’re getting the best flavor and nutritional value in your baking.

Beyond health benefits, olive oil provides a unique richness to the cake that butter simply cannot match. It lends a tender crumb and a subtle fruitiness that complements the Meyer lemon flavor beautifully. This results in a cake that is not only delicious but also a bit lighter than your traditional butter-based cakes, making it an excellent choice for a dessert that won’t weigh you down.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake is wonderfully versatile and can be served in various ways. For a simple yet elegant presentation, serve it dusted with powdered sugar and a slice of fresh Meyer lemon on the side. Alternatively, consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

For those looking to elevate their dessert experience, a light berry compote or a drizzle of honey can enhance the cake's citrus notes beautifully. This cake also pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for afternoon gatherings or brunch. Whichever way you choose to serve it, this cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 large eggs
1 cup Meyer lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt

For the Glaze

½ cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, eggs, Meyer lemon juice, and lemon zest until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar with Meyer lemon juice until smooth. Adjust consistency with more juice or sugar as needed.

Finish the Cake

Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Slice and serve for a delightful dessert!

Enjoy your cake with a cup of tea or coffee!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake turns out perfectly, use room temperature ingredients. This helps to create a smooth batter and ensures even baking. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter; mixing just until combined will help maintain the cake's light and tender texture.

When measuring flour, use the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping directly from the bag. This will prevent your cake from becoming dense due to excess flour. Lastly, always keep an eye on the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once baked, allow your Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake to cool completely before storing. It can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days, retaining its moisture and flavor. If you’d like to store it for a longer period, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for up to a week.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake to suit your taste preferences. You can add poppy seeds for a delightful crunch or incorporate fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter for added flavor and color. These fruity additions pair beautifully with the lemon and will make your cake even more appealing.

For a more decadent twist, consider adding a layer of cream cheese frosting on top, balancing the zesty lemon with a rich, creamy texture. You could also experiment with different citrus fruits, such as blood oranges or limes, to create unique flavor variations that will excite your taste buds.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?

Yes, but the flavor will be more tart. You may want to adjust the sugar.

→ How do I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.