11 Meyer Lemon Recipes for Every Occasion 2025

Meyer lemons, a hybrid of regular lemons and mandarin oranges, are a culinary gem known for their sweeter, less acidic flavor and floral aroma.

Their versatility makes them perfect for a wide range of dishes, from desserts to savory meals.

In this article, we’ll explore 11 Meyer lemon recipes that cater to every occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a cozy family meal, or simply indulging in a sweet treat.

Each recipe includes a detailed description, a list of ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to ensure success in the kitchen.

1. Meyer Lemon Curd

Meyer lemon curd is a luscious, creamy spread that balances sweetness and tartness perfectly. Its velvety texture makes it ideal for filling tarts, topping scones, or even enjoying straight from the jar. The natural sweetness of Meyer lemons reduces the need for excessive sugar, making this curd a healthier alternative to traditional lemon curd.

Ingredients:

• 1 ⅓ cups Meyer lemon juice
• 2 cups sugar
• ¾ cup unsalted butter
• 4 eggs
• 4 egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons Meyer lemon zest

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine butter and sugar over low heat until melted.
2. Whisk in eggs, egg yolks, lemon juice, and zest.
3. Gradually increase the heat to medium, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 10-15 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer to jars and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.

2. Meyer Lemon Bars

These bars are a classic dessert with a Meyer lemon twist. The buttery shortbread crust pairs beautifully with the tangy-sweet lemon filling, creating a treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a midday snack.

Ingredients:

• Crust:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• Pinch of salt
• Filling:
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ⅓ cup Meyer lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. For the crust, mix flour, powdered sugar, and butter until crumbly. Press into a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.
3. For the filling, whisk eggs, sugar, flour, baking powder, and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Pour the filling over the baked crust and bake for another 20 minutes.
5. Let cool, dust with powdered sugar, and cut into squares.

3. Meyer Lemon Olive Oil Cake

This moist and tender cake is infused with the bright flavor of Meyer lemons and the richness of olive oil. It’s a sophisticated dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for brunches or afternoon tea.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup olive oil
• 3 eggs
• ½ cup Meyer lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs and sugar until fluffy. Add olive oil, lemon juice, and zest.
4. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients.
5. Pour batter into the pan and bake for 40-45 minutes.
6. Let cool before serving.

4. Meyer Lemon Roasted Chicken

This savory dish combines the zesty flavor of Meyer lemons with succulent roasted chicken. The citrus enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken, making it a show-stopping centerpiece for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken
• 2 Meyer lemons (sliced)
• 4 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub chicken with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff the cavity with lemon slices, garlic, and herbs.
4. Place chicken in a roasting pan and surround with additional lemon slices.
5. Roast for 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

5. Meyer Lemon Gelato

This creamy gelato is a refreshing treat that captures the essence of Meyer lemons. It’s less sweet than traditional ice cream, making it a delightful dessert for warm summer days.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup sugar
• 5 egg yolks
• ½ cup Meyer lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Heat milk and cream in a saucepan until steaming.
2. Whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale, then temper with the warm milk mixture.
3. Return to the saucepan and cook until thickened.
4. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then chill for 4 hours.
5. Churn in an ice cream maker and freeze until firm.

6. Meyer Lemon Marmalade

This marmalade is a sweet and tangy spread that’s perfect for toast, scones, or even as a glaze for meats. The natural sweetness of Meyer lemons makes it a standout condiment.

Ingredients:

• 7 Meyer lemons
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Slice lemons thinly and remove seeds.
2. Boil lemon slices in water for 2-3 minutes to remove bitterness.
3. Add sugar and simmer for 40-60 minutes until thickened.
4. Perform a wrinkle test to check consistency.
5. Transfer to jars and refrigerate.

7. Meyer Lemon Crinkle Cookies

These soft, buttery cookies are bursting with Meyer lemon flavor. The powdered sugar coating adds a delightful contrast to the tangy citrus, making them a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
• ¼ cup Meyer lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar, then add egg, zest, and juice.
4. Gradually mix in dry ingredients.
5. Chill dough for 30 minutes, then roll into balls and coat in powdered sugar.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes.

8. Meyer Lemon Vinaigrette

This bright and zesty dressing is perfect for salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled fish. Its simplicity allows the Meyer lemon flavor to shine.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Whisk all ingredients together until emulsified.
2. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Store in a jar and refrigerate for up to a week.

9. Meyer Lemon Pudding Cake

This dessert is a magical combination of cake and pudding. The top layer is light and spongy, while the bottom layer is creamy and custard-like, offering the best of both worlds.

Ingredients:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 eggs
• ⅓ cup Meyer lemon juice
• 1 cup milk
• ⅓ cup flour
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Beat butter and sugar, then add egg yolks, lemon juice, and zest.
3. Fold in flour and milk.
4. Whip egg whites until stiff and gently fold into the batter.
5. Bake in a water bath for 50-55 minutes.

10. Meyer Lemon and Blueberry Muffins

These muffins are a delightful blend of sweet blueberries and tangy Meyer lemon. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ cup butter
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon Meyer lemon zest
• 1 cup blueberries

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Whisk dry ingredients together.
3. Cream butter and sugar, then add egg, buttermilk, and zest.
4. Fold in dry ingredients and blueberries.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

11. Meyer Lemon Martini

This cocktail is a refreshing twist on the classic martini. The Meyer lemon adds a subtle sweetness and floral note, making it a sophisticated drink for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces vodka
• 1 ounce Meyer lemon juice
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions:

1. Shake vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice.
2. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
3. Garnish with a lemon twist.

These 11 Meyer lemon recipes showcase the versatility and unique flavor of this citrus fruit. Whether you’re baking, cooking, or mixing drinks, Meyer lemons are sure to elevate your culinary creations. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and savor the bright, sunny flavors they bring to your table!