This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious, then you’ve come to the right place! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is just what you need. It’s a cake that brings a burst of citrus flavor and a touch of sunshine into any gathering, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply treating yourself on a cozy weeknight. The best part? You only need one bowl to whip it up, making cleanup a breeze!

This cake isn’t just any dessert; it holds a special place in the hearts of many, including the famous Paul Hollywood! Its light and zesty flavor profile makes it perfect for any occasion—birthdays, potlucks, or even just an afternoon snack with tea. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll want to keep it on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-bowl simplicity: No one wants to deal with piles of dishes! This recipe is all about easy preparation without compromising on flavor.
• Bright and refreshing taste: The lemon zest and juice provide an invigorating citrus kick that will leave your taste buds singing.
• Family-friendly: This cake is sure to please everyone at the table—from kids to adults—with its sweet yet tangy flavor.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare this dessert ahead of time! It tastes even better after resting for a day, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this easy lemon cake. You probably have most of these items in your kitchen already!

For the Cake

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup whole milk

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)

Variations

The beauty of this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for added sweetness and color.
• Lemon poppy seed twist: Mix in a tablespoon or two of poppy seeds for a delightful crunch and extra texture.
• Coconut flair: Substitute half of the milk with coconut milk for a tropical vibe that pairs wonderfully with lemon!

How to Make This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises perfectly as soon as you put it in.

Step 2: Cream Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter cake texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure they are fully incorporated before moving on. This helps maintain that airy consistency!

Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Zest and Juice

Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice until everything is well combined. The zest adds an aromatic quality that enhances the overall flavor.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mixing until smooth allows all those lovely flavors to come together beautifully.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Evenness here means even baking—no hilly cakes!

Step 8: Bake It!

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it; we want that perfect golden hue!

Step 9: Make the Glaze

While your cake bakes, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. A good glaze can take your dessert from great to spectacular!

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Then drizzle your luscious lemon glaze over while it’s still warm—don’t wait too long; we want that glaze to soak in!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert—Paul Hollywood’s favorite! It’s sure to become yours too!

Pro Tips for Making This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite

Baking is all about little tricks that make a big difference, so here are some pro tips to ensure your lemon dessert turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Having butter, eggs, and milk at room temperature helps them emulsify better, leading to a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.

• Don’t skip the zest – The lemon zest adds an incredible depth of flavor that enhances the citrus notes in the cake. Fresh zest will always taste better than pre-packaged options.

• Check for doneness – Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when done.

• Let it cool completely before glazing – Allowing the cake to cool completely ensures that the glaze adheres well without melting into the cake, creating a beautiful finish.

• Experiment with flavors – While this recipe shines with lemon, you can easily switch it up by adding lime or orange zest and juice for a different fruity twist.

How to Serve This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite

Serving this delightful lemon dessert is just as important as baking it! Presenting it beautifully can turn a simple cake into an impressive centerpiece for any gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries – A handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries not only adds color but also complements the zingy lemon flavor perfectly.
• Mint leaves – A few sprigs of mint on top provide a refreshing contrast and elevate the visual appeal of your dessert.
• Whipped coconut cream – For those looking for a creamy accompaniment, whipped coconut cream offers a light and dairy-free option that pairs wonderfully with lemon.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt with honey – The tanginess of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey makes an excellent side dish that balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Fruit salad – A colorful fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits adds freshness and vibrancy to your dessert table while enhancing its citrusy theme.
• Herbed quinoa salad – A light herbed quinoa salad provides a nutty flavor and healthy dose of protein, making it a balanced meal when served alongside your lemon cake.
• Lemon sorbet – For more citrus goodness, serve a scoop of lemon sorbet on the side. It’s refreshing and can cleanse the palate between bites.

Enjoy your baking adventure with this one-bowl lemon dessert, and remember that sharing is caring! Let me know how yours turned out!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or simply to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the cake is completely cooled.
• Wrap it thoroughly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful dessert!

What makes This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Paul Hollywood’s favorite?

Paul Hollywood loves this dessert for its simplicity and vibrant lemon flavor. The one-bowl method makes it quick and easy without compromising on taste!

Can I make This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just ensure it’s a blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.

How long does This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert last?

When stored properly, this cake lasts up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

While fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used if necessary. However, freshly grated zest will enhance the taste even more!

What can I serve with This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert?

Serve this cake with fresh berries, whipped coconut cream, or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a delightful twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s favorite! Its refreshing citrus flavor and simple preparation make it an absolute winner. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!