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

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings sunshine to your table, look no further! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is the perfect cake to brighten any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a busy weeknight, this easy recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. With just one bowl and simple ingredients, you’ll create a citrusy delight that’s sure to become a beloved classic in your home.

What makes this dessert so special? It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. The vibrant lemon flavor shines through, making it a refreshing choice for any celebration or just an everyday indulgence. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s Paul Hollywood’s favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With only one bowl required, cleanup is a breeze—perfect for those busy days!
• Citrusy goodness: The fresh lemon zest and juice give this dessert its irresistible flavor that will keep you coming back for more.
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy this light and fluffy cake, making it great for all ages.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake it ahead of time and store it for later, saving you time when entertaining guests.
• Delicious glaze: The sweet lemon glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, elevating the dessert into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this beautiful lemon dessert, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. These are pantry staples that come together to make a cake that’s both satisfying and delicious!

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 easily customize it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add some berries: Toss in some blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with lemon.
• Try different citrus: Substitute lime or orange juice/zest if you’re feeling adventurous—each will give a unique flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap out the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
• Include nuts: Chopped almonds or walnuts can add a nice crunch and complement the soft texture of the cake.

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 from the moment you put it in. Greasing your 9-inch round cake pan now will also save you time later!

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 step is essential because it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake a lovely texture. Take your time here—it makes such a difference!

Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next, resulting in a smoother batter.

Step 4: Mix in Zest and Juice

Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice until well combined. The zest adds extra flavor that makes this cake truly shine with citrusy goodness!

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution of the leavening agent throughout your batter.

Step 6: Alternate Dry Ingredients with Milk

Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients while alternating with whole milk. Mixing until smooth will create a lovely batter that will rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan

Now it’s time to pour your batter into the prepared cake pan! Use a spatula to smooth out the top so that it bakes evenly.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it as every oven varies slightly!

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While your cake bakes, mix together powdered sugar and additional lemon juice until smooth for that sweet glaze we all love.

Step 10: Cool Before Transferring

Once baked, allow your cake to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This allows it to set properly without breaking apart.

Step 11: Drizzle That Glaze

Finally, drizzle your tangy glaze over the warm cake. Let it set for just enough time before serving—though I bet you won’t be able to resist taking a slice right away!

Enjoy sharing this delightful dessert with friends and family!

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

Baking can be a breeze with the right tips! Here are some helpful hints to ensure your lemon dessert turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh lemons and high-quality butter will elevate the flavor of your cake, making it bright and delicious.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined helps maintain a light texture, so avoid overworking it after adding the dry ingredients.
• Check for doneness early – Every oven is different, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time to prevent overbaking.
• Cool before glazing – Allowing the cake to cool slightly before applying the glaze ensures it adheres better and doesn’t melt away.
• Experiment with flavors – Feel free to add a touch of vanilla extract or substitute part of the milk with yogurt for an extra depth of flavor.

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

• Fresh berries – A handful of raspberries or blueberries on top adds a pop of color and complements the tartness of the lemon beautifully.
• Whipped cream – A dollop of dairy-free whipped cream makes for a creamy contrast that balances the citrusy notes perfectly.
• Mint leaves – A sprig of fresh mint not only enhances visual appeal but also adds a refreshing aroma to each slice.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – Creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that contrasts nicely with the zesty cake, providing a cooling effect.
• Fruit salad – A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits offers a refreshing side that complements the lemon flavor without overpowering it.
• Herbal tea – A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, pairs wonderfully with this dessert, enhancing its comforting qualities.
• Coconut yogurt parfaits – Layer coconut yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a delightful side dish that adds texture and richness without overshadowing the cake.

Enjoy serving and sharing this delightful treat with friends and family—it’s bound to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to ensure you keep your cake fresh and delicious!

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 you prefer it chilled, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; just make sure to label your containers!

Reheating

• To enjoy the cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave for 20-30 seconds on medium power.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful lemon dessert? Here are some common queries answered!

Can I adjust the sugar in This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake. Start by reducing it by a quarter cup and taste before baking!

What can I substitute if I don’t have whole milk for This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite?

You can use any non-dairy milk alternative such as almond milk or oat milk, which will still keep the cake moist and delicious.

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

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh for This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert?

While fresh lemon juice gives the best flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Just make sure it’s pure lemon juice without additives.

Final Thoughts

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is truly special because it combines simplicity with vibrant flavor! It’s an excellent choice for any occasion—be it a cozy family gathering or a delightful afternoon treat. I hope you enjoy making this cake as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations; I’m always eager to hear how your baking adventures turn out!