That Lemon Meringue Loaf Cake You Didn’t Know You Needed

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan, or line with parchment paper.
2. 2

   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. 3

   In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 150g sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes with an electric mixer).
4. 4

   Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring full incorporation after each. Scrape down the bowl sides. Stir in the lemon zest, 2 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp vanilla extract.
5. 5

   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry. Mix until just combined.
6. 6

   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer comes out clean.
7. 7

   While the cake bakes, prepare the lemon drizzle: In a small saucepan, combine 50g sugar and 3 tbsp lemon juice. Heat gently, stirring until sugar dissolves. Do not boil.
8. 8

   As soon as the cake is out of the oven, poke holes all over the top with a skewer. Immediately pour the warm drizzle over the hot cake. Let cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. 9

   Once the cake is completely cool, prepare the meringue: In a very clean, dry metal or glass bowl, combine egg whites, 150g sugar, cream of tartar (if using), and a pinch of salt.
10. 10

    Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (not touching water). Whisk constantly until sugar dissolves and mixture is warm to the touch (140-160°F).
11. 11

    Remove from heat and beat with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff, glossy peaks form (7-10 minutes). Beat in ½ tsp vanilla extract for the last minute.
12. 12

    Pipe or spread the meringue generously over the cooled loaf cake. Use a kitchen blow torch to toast the peaks, or place under a preheated broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching very carefully to prevent burning.
13. 13

    Slice and serve immediately for the best meringue texture. Enjoy your delightful lemon meringue loaf cake!