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

If you’re looking for a refreshing dessert that brings sunshine to your table, then you’ve come to the right place! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is not only easy to make, but it also bursts with the zesty goodness of lemons. It’s a cake that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering. The light and fluffy texture paired with the tangy lemon glaze will have everyone asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. You can mix everything in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the delightful combination of flavors will surely brighten anyone’s day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one bowl needed, this recipe saves time on prep and cleanup.
• Citrus Bliss: The bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist that everyone loves.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy this sweet treat—it’s a hit at any gathering!
• Perfectly Moist: The combination of butter and milk ensures every bite is fluffy and delicious.
• Make Ahead: Bake it in advance! This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is simple with these wholesome ingredients. You likely already have many of them in your pantry! Let’s gather what we 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 recipe is flexible and open to creative twists! Feel free to try out these variations for a fun spin:

• Add Berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity burst.
• Make It Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based butter and milk.
• Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flair.
• Herbal Infusion: Mix in some finely chopped mint or basil for an unexpected herbal note.

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) and greasing a 9-inch round cake pan. Preheating ensures that your cake rises beautifully as soon as it goes into the oven.

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 introduces air into the batter, giving your cake that lovely fluffy texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Now, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This allows each egg to incorporate fully into the mixture, ensuring an even batter.

Step 4: Incorporate 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 provides moisture—this combination is what makes this dessert so refreshing!

Step 5: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with whole milk. Mixing until smooth creates a lovely batter that’s ready for baking!

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 aroma of lemon in your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While your cake bakes, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. This tart glaze is what takes your cake to another level of deliciousness!

Step 9: Cool Your Cake

Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling helps set up its structure so that it doesn’t fall apart when you drizzle on that glaze.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle that luscious lemon glaze over your warm cake, letting it soak in for extra flavor before serving. Now it’s time to enjoy this delightful treat!

Each slice of this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite carries sunshine on your plate—perfect for sharing with friends or savoring all by yourself!

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

Creating the perfect lemon dessert is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out delightful!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature helps them incorporate better, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cake.

• Don’t skip the zest: Freshly grated lemon zest adds a vibrant flavor that brightens up the cake. It enhances the citrus profile and gives your dessert that extra zing!

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cake during the last few minutes of baking. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the center for the best texture.

• Let it cool before glazing: Allowing your cake to cool slightly before adding the glaze ensures that it doesn’t melt away. This way, you get a lovely, glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes!

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other flavors like a hint of vanilla or almond extract alongside the lemon for a unique twist that complements the citrus.

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

Serving this delightful lemon dessert can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: Light and airy, this vegan option adds a creamy texture without overpowering the lemon flavor.
• Fresh berries: A handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries not only adds color but also provides a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with lemon.
• Mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint can elevate your dish visually while adding a refreshing aroma.

Side Dishes

• Lemon sorbet: The cool, tangy flavors of lemon sorbet complement the warm cake perfectly, creating a refreshing contrast.
• Coconut yogurt: This smooth and creamy side offers a mild flavor that balances out the tartness of the cake while keeping everything dairy-free.
• Fruit salad: A medley of seasonal fruits can add freshness and additional textures to your dessert table.
• Herbal tea: Pairing with a warm cup of herbal tea enhances the overall experience and rounds off this delightful treat beautifully.

Enjoy creating and sharing this one-bowl lemon dessert with friends and family! It’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your cake fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature.
• For optimal freshness, consume within 3-4 days.
• If the glaze starts to separate, simply give it a gentle whisk before serving.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• To enjoy warm, slice the cake and place pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful recipe? Here are some common queries to help you out!

Can I make This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake this delicious lemon dessert a day or two in advance. Just store it properly, and it will taste just as wonderful when you’re ready to serve!

What can I substitute for eggs in This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas as egg substitutes. Typically, 1/4 cup of either can replace one egg. This will keep the texture moist while maintaining that lovely lemon flavor!

How do I know when This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is done baking?

The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking!

Can I add other flavors to This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert?

Yes! While lemon is delightful, feel free to experiment with flavors like lavender or almond extract for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite! It’s not only simple to prepare but also brings sunshine to any occasion with its bright citrus flavor. Enjoy every slice, share with loved ones, and let this delightful treat bring happiness to your kitchen. Happy baking!