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

If you’re looking for a simple yet delightful treat that can brighten up any day, this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is just the thing. With its zesty flavor and moist texture, it’s no wonder this cake has earned such a special place in the hearts of many, including Paul Hollywood himself! Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dessert or serving it at a family gathering, this cake brings a sunny twist to any occasion.

Baking doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe keeps things easy and straightforward—perfect for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices. You’ll love how quickly you can prepare this lemony delight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one bowl needed, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your cake!
• Bright Flavor: The fresh lemon zest and juice infuse every bite with a refreshing citrus flavor that’s sure to please.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this sweet treat, making it perfect for any gathering.
• Perfectly Moist: This cake stays deliciously moist thanks to the balanced ingredients, ensuring every slice is a delight.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it ahead of time and simply drizzle on the glaze when you’re ready to serve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for this lovely lemon dessert! You likely already have many of these staples in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is quite flexible, allowing you to personalize it in fun ways! Here are some tasty variations you might enjoy:

• Add Berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for an extra fruity twist that complements the lemon beautifully.
• Make it Lemon-Lavender: Incorporate a teaspoon of dried lavender into the batter for a fragrant floral note that pairs wonderfully with lemon.
• Try Different Zests: Experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or lime zest for a unique flavor profile.
• Nutty Delight: Stir in some chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch and richness.

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

Step 1: Preheat 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, take a moment to grease your 9-inch round cake pan—it helps prevent sticking!

Step 2: Cream Together Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which gives your cake its lovely texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture. Mix well after each addition to ensure everything is nicely combined. Each egg adds moisture and richness to your cake!

Step 4: Mix in Lemon Zest and Juice

Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice until well combined. The zest adds vibrant flavor while the juice contributes moisture—together they create that signature citrusy delight.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps distribute the baking powder evenly throughout your batter.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture while alternating with whole milk. Mixing until smooth ensures there are no lumps in your batter—this makes for an even bake!

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. The smell of baking will fill your kitchen as it transforms into a golden delight!

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While your cake bakes, mix together powdered sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze adds an extra zing of sweetness that complements the tartness of the cake perfectly.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Drizzle the warm cake with your prepared glaze while it’s still warm so it seeps into those delicious crumbs.

Now you’re all set! Enjoy sharing this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert with loved ones—it’s bound to become their favorite too!

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

Making this delightful lemon dessert is a breeze, but these tips will ensure it turns out perfect every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter and eggs to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a lighter cake.

• Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise measurements, especially for flour. Too much flour can lead to a dry cake, while too little can cause it to collapse.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in a dense cake instead of the light, airy texture we want.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary significantly, so start checking your cake around the 25-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center; if not, give it a few more minutes.

• Cool Before Glazing: Letting the cake cool slightly before adding the glaze allows it to set properly without soaking into the cake. This keeps your dessert beautifully glazed and moist!

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

This lemon dessert is not only delicious but also stunning enough to be the centerpiece of any gathering. Here are some charming ways to serve it!

Garnishes

• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of color and flavor that complements the lemon beautifully.
• Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint can brighten up each slice and add an aromatic touch.
• Lemon Slices: Thinly sliced lemons placed on top of the cake offer an elegant presentation while reinforcing that zesty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: Light and fluffy coconut cream provides a dairy-free alternative that pairs wonderfully with citrus desserts.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds richness and contrasts nicely with the tangy lemon flavor.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can serve as a light side dish, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, enhances the overall experience with soothing flavors that complement the dessert.

With these serving ideas and tips in mind, you’re all set to impress your guests with Paul Hollywood’s favorite lemon dessert! Enjoy every bite and share those delicious moments!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it to enjoy later. Here’s how to keep your lemon cake fresh and delightful for days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If your kitchen is warm, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, freeze without the glaze; add it after thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Enjoy at room temperature or with a fresh drizzle of lemon glaze.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other fruits instead of lemon in this dessert?

While this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite features a delightful lemon flavor, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or lime. Just be sure to adjust the zest and juice quantities accordingly.

How long does this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert stay fresh?

When stored properly, this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite stays fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free.

Is there a vegan option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use plant-based butter for a delicious vegan version.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite! It’s such a simple yet delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine into any gathering. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. Happy baking!