Description
Zesty Meyer lemon olive oil loaf brings Mediterranean sunshine to your kitchen, blending citrusy brightness with rich, silky texture. Bakers seeking a sophisticated yet simple dessert will savor this elegant cake’s delicate crumb and bright, balanced flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh Meyer lemon juice
- Zest of 2 Meyer lemons
Leavening and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Glaze Ingredients:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing and flouring its interior to prevent sticking.
- Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl, whisking thoroughly to distribute leavening agents evenly.
- Using an electric mixer, beat eggs and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture becomes light and airy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate olive oil, yogurt, Meyer lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract into the egg mixture, blending until smooth and well integrated.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring with a spatula until just combined to maintain the loaf’s delicate texture.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the surface evenly with a spatula for consistent baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean when the loaf is fully baked.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar and Meyer lemon juice until achieving a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Once the loaf has cooled, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Always use room temperature eggs for better batter consistency and smoother mixing.
- Ensure Meyer lemons are ripe and fragrant to maximize the unique citrus flavor profile.
- Replace regular flour with gluten-free flour blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals, adding 1/2 teaspoon xanthan gum for structure.
- Swap olive oil with coconut oil for a slightly different flavor and vegan-friendly option, maintaining moisture and richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 28 g
- Sodium: 155 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 41 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg