Meyer Lemon Cake Bars

There’s something incredibly refreshing about the taste of citrus, especially when it comes to a dessert like Meyer Lemon Cake Bars. I remember the first time I had these delightful bars at a friend’s spring gathering. The sun was shining, and the air was filled with laughter and chatter. As I took my first bite, the balance of tartness from the Meyer lemon and the sweetness of the sugar danced on my taste buds. It was a perfect treat that captured the essence of spring. Each bite felt like a little piece of sunshine, invigorating and light. Now, every time spring rolls around, I get excited to recreate this dish and share the joy with friends and family. There’s just something special about baking with ingredients that feel so fresh and vibrant, right?

Meyer Lemon Cake Bars Shopping List

When it comes to making delicious Meyer Lemon Cake Bars, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Each component complements the others beautifully, creating a harmonious dessert that is both sweet and tangy. Here’s a look at what you’ll need:

• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and moisture, creating a tender crumb.
• Sugar: Sweetens the bars while enhancing the natural flavors of the Meyer lemons.
• Eggs: Acts as a binding agent while adding structure and moisture.
• Meyer Lemon Juice: Delivers that delightful tanginess that defines these bars.
• Meyer Lemon Zest: Adds an aromatic citrus punch that elevates the flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of our cake bars, providing stability and texture.
• Baking Powder: Ensures the bars rise and achieve that perfect light texture.
• Baking Soda: Works with the acid in the lemon juice for leavening.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: For the glaze, it provides sweetness and a smooth finish.

Step by Step Instructions for Meyer Lemon Cake Bars

Let’s dive into the fun part—making these lovely Meyer Lemon Cake Bars! Follow these steps for a flawless bake that will impress your family and friends. You won’t believe how easy it is!

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cake bars bake evenly. While the oven heats, prepare your baking pan by buttering a 9″ x 9″ pan generously, making it easier to remove the bars later.

2. In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a paddle attachment, add the unsalted butter and sugar. Beat them together on medium speed until the mixture becomes fluffy and light, which should take about two minutes. You want to incorporate air into the mixture for a light texture.

3. Next, it’s time to add the eggs. Crack them in one at a time, beating well after each addition. This step is crucial as it helps to further emulsify the mixture, contributing to the overall texture of your bars.

4. Once the eggs are well incorporated, pour in the Meyer lemon juice and add the Meyer lemon zest. Beat on low speed just until everything is combined. You’ll start to smell that wonderful citrus aroma—so inviting!

5. In a separate medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is essential for avoiding clumps and ensuring an even distribution of the leavening agents.

6. Gradually pour the flour mixture into the buttery mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is well blended but be careful not to over-mix. The batter will be thick and smooth, perfect for spreading in your pan.

7. Now, spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. This ensures that the cake bars bake uniformly.

8. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when the edges start to turn golden brown and the center is set.

9. After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for about 20 to 30 minutes. Cooling is essential as it allows the flavors to settle and makes cutting them easier later.

10. While the bars cool, let’s prepare the glaze! In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, Meyer lemon juice, and the additional lemon zest. The glaze should be smooth and pourable.

11. Once the cake bars have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to soak into the bars for extra flavor. Cut them into squares and serve! Enjoy the refreshing taste of your homemade Meyer Lemon Cake Bars.

How to Switch It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to add a twist to your Meyer Lemon Cake Bars, here are a few creative ideas to consider:

• Add Herbs: Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an interesting flavor combination.
• Different Citrus: Experiment with other citrus fruits, like orange or lime, for a different taste profile.
• Berry Addition: Add fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries into the batter for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped almonds or walnuts for added texture and rich taste.
• Frosting Option: Instead of a glaze, try frosting the bars with a cream cheese frosting for an even richer dessert.
• Vegan Version: Use alternatives like coconut oil and flax eggs for a vegan-friendly option.
• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

What Complements This Meyer Lemon Cake Bars

• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or blueberries to enhance the sweetness and add color.
• Iced Tea: A tall glass of iced tea or lemonade pairs perfectly with the bright flavors of Meyer Lemon Cake Bars.
• Brunch Delight: These bars are a fantastic addition to brunch, alongside other pastries and fruits.
• Spring Picnics: Ideal for picnics, they hold up well and provide a refreshing touch to outdoor gatherings.
• Seasonal Events: Perfect for spring celebrations, baby showers, or garden parties.
• Storage Tips: If storing, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Meyer Lemon Cake Bars stand out for their delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. They embody the essence of spring and offer a refreshing treat that’s easy to make and share. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings. With every bite, you’ll be reminded of sunny days and warm memories!

Meyer Lemon Cake Bars

The perfect balance of sweet and tangy, Meyer Lemon Cake Bars are a refreshing treat that captures the essence of spring! With their bright flavor and easy preparation, they’re ideal for any gathering or just to indulge in. Make them tonight and bring a little sunshine into your day!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 16 bars

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 210

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter Room temperature
• 1.5 cups Sugar
• 4 large Eggs
• 1 tablespoon Meyer Lemon Juice
• 2 teaspoons Meyer Lemon Zest About one medium lemon
• 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 0.5 teaspoon Baking Powder
• 0.125 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Powdered Sugar
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Meyer Lemon Juice
• 2 teaspoons Meyer Lemon Zest Another medium lemon

Equipment

• Oven
• Whisk
• Blender
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Butter a 9" x 9" baking pan and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl or in the bowl of a stand mixer affixed with the paddle attachment, beat together the butter and sugar on medium speed until fluffy, about two minutes.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Add the lemon juice and lemon zest and beat on low just until combined.
5. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
6. Pour the flour mixture into the butter/sugar/lemon mixture and mix together until blended.
7. Spread mixture in the baking pan.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, until the cake bars begin to get golden brown around the edges, and are set in the middle.
9. Cool for about 20 - 30 minutes.
10. Make the glaze. Whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice and lemon zest.
11. Drizzle glaze over the top of the cake bars. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bars before glazing for up to three months. Just thaw and glaze before serving.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of fresh berries for a delightful contrast!
• Variations: Try adding nuts or fresh fruit into the batter for a different twist!
• Serving Suggestion: These are perfect for brunch, picnics, or any spring gathering!

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Meet Violet Lane

The Creative Spark I see the kitchen as my art studio. I love experimenting with colors and textures, and I’m usually the one asking, “What if we added this?” I encourage the team to take risks and try new flavor combinations. I love the energy of cooking with six other people it’s chaotic, colorful, and inspiring. I’m hands-on with the cooking and styling, always trying to make our plates look as artistic as they taste.