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

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as bright and cheerful as a sunny day, then you’ve come to the right place! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is not just any cake; it’s a delightful burst of citrus that will make your taste buds dance with joy. I love how easy this recipe is—it comes together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this cake is sure to become a cherished staple in your kitchen.

What makes this lemon dessert truly special is its lightness and flavor. It’s moist, tangy, and topped with a sweet glaze that gives it that extra zing! Whether you’re serving it up for a birthday celebration or simply treating yourself after a long day, this cake will bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just one bowl and simple steps, you can whip up this cake without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and tangy flavors! It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dessert fits right in.
• Deliciously Refreshing: The zesty lemon flavor is perfect for brightening up any meal or snack time.
• Make Ahead Friendly: This cake stays moist and tasty, making it great for prepping in advance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this wholesome cake is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are all simple items you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you need to create this delightful lemon dessert:

Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
– ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup whole milk
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility—you can change it up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences! Here are some fun ideas to try:

• Add Blueberries: Toss in some fresh blueberries for an extra burst of flavor and color!
• Try Different Zests: Experiment with orange or lime zest if you’re feeling adventurous—each adds a unique twist.
• Mix in Nuts: Chopped walnuts or almonds can add texture and nutty flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

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

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start. While the oven heats up, you can prepare your baking pan by greasing it—this helps the cake come out easily once it’s baked!

Step 2: Cream Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which will give your cake its lovely rise. It also creates a wonderful base flavor for your lemon dessert.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps ensure that each egg is fully incorporated into the batter. The eggs provide moisture and structure to your cake.

Step 4: Mix in Zest and Juice

Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice until everything is well combined. The zest adds an incredible aromatic quality while enhancing that crisp lemon flavor we all love!

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed before adding them into the wet mixture.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture while alternating with milk. Mixing until smooth helps form a batter that’s perfectly balanced in texture—neither too dry nor too runny.

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Watching it rise in the oven is such a satisfying moment!

Step 8: Prepare Your Glaze

While your cake bakes, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth to create your glaze. This simple topping adds sweetness and tanginess that beautifully complements the cake.

Step 9: Cool Your Cake

Once baked, let your cake cool in its pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling allows it to set properly without falling apart when you drizzle on that delicious glaze.

Step 10: Drizzle Over Glaze

Drizzle the warm glaze over your cooled cake, letting it soak in slightly for added moisture. Allow it to set before slicing into pieces—this step builds anticipation for that first delightful bite!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite! Every slice promises brightness and joy—enjoy sharing it with friends or savoring every bite yourself!

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

Baking this delightful lemon dessert is simple, but a few tips can elevate your cake to perfection!

• Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest will provide a vibrant flavor that bottled alternatives simply can’t match. Your cake will taste bright and citrusy, enhancing the overall experience.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined will ensure a tender cake. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so be gentle when incorporating your ingredients.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached—this means your cake is perfectly baked!

• Cool before glazing: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before drizzling on the glaze helps it adhere better and gives you that beautiful finish. If it’s too hot, the glaze may run off completely!

• Store properly: To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it for longer shelf life, but bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

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

Presenting your lemon dessert beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some creative ideas on how to serve it.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of raspberries or blueberries adds color and a burst of flavor that complements the lemon perfectly.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a creamy touch without dairy, whip some coconut cream and dollop it on top of each slice.
• Mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only looks appealing but also adds a refreshing aroma that enhances the citrusy notes.

Side Dishes

• Lemon sorbet: A scoop of refreshing lemon sorbet pairs beautifully with the cake’s flavors and offers a delightful contrast in texture.
• Greek yogurt with honey: The creaminess of Greek yogurt mixed with a drizzle of honey creates a sweet and tangy side that balances the dessert’s richness.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette provides a fresh contrast that cuts through the sweetness of the cake.
• Herbal tea: Serving this dessert with a cup of chamomile or mint tea makes for a soothing end to any meal, enhancing its delightful flavors.

Now you’re all set to bake and enjoy this delicious one-bowl lemon dessert! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this cake ahead of time, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, though it may be slightly drier.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

• If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this delightful dessert, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice in This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite?

Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh lemon juice will give the best flavor. If possible, opt for fresh lemons to enhance the citrusy goodness of the cake!

How should I serve This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite?

This dessert is lovely on its own but can be served with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flair. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee!

Can I substitute whole milk in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk or another non-dairy milk as an alternative. Just be sure to choose an unsweetened variety to keep the flavors balanced.

How do I know when This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it around the 30-minute mark!

Final Thoughts

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is truly a gem among cakes! Its bright citrus flavor and simplicity make it perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to special celebrations. I hope you enjoy making this delightful treat as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations; I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Happy baking!