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

If you’re looking for a bright and cheerful dessert to brighten up your day, you’ve come to the right place! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is a delightful treat that combines simplicity with scrumptious flavor. With its refreshing lemony taste and moist texture, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up. You don’t need fancy equipment or complicated techniques; just a bowl and a whisk will do! Plus, the vibrant lemon glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness that makes it irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dessert comes together in just one bowl—no mess, no fuss!
• Citrusy Flavor: The fresh lemon zest and juice infuse every bite with a delightful tang.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore this cake, making it a hit at any gathering.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration, this dessert fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Option: Bake it in advance and drizzle the glaze just before serving for a stress-free treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to bring this delicious cake to life. You probably have most of these already in your pantry!

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
– 1½ 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! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for added color and flavor.
• Lemon poppy seed twist: Mix in a tablespoon of poppy seeds for a delightful crunch.
• Coconut flair: Substitute some of the milk with coconut cream for a tropical twist.
• Herb-infused: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or mint for an unexpected burst of freshness.

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. Grease your 9-inch round cake pan well so that the cake releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Cream Together Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create a nice, airy texture in your cake.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps bind everything together smoothly while keeping that lovely fluffiness you want from your cake.

Step 4: Stir in Zest and Juice

Now it’s time to stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice. These ingredients are what give this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert its signature bright flavor! Make sure everything is well combined before moving on.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed. This ensures that your leavening agent is distributed throughout the flour before adding it to your wet ingredients.

Step 6: Mix It All Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mixing gradually helps maintain that lovely airy texture we achieved earlier. Keep stirring until everything is smooth—no lumps allowed!

Step 7: Pour Batter into Cake Pan

Pour your luscious batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. It should look beautiful already!

Step 8: Bake Your Cake

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen with delightful citrus scents as it bakes!

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze

While your cake is baking, mix together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. This glaze adds an irresistible sweet-tart finish!

Step 10: Cool Down Your Cake

Once baked, allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling slightly helps set its structure while keeping it moist.

Step 11: Drizzle That Glaze!

Finally, drizzle the lemon glaze over your warm cake. Let it set before slicing into this delicious creation! Enjoy every zesty bite of this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite with friends or family—it’s sure to be loved by all!

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

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, your lemon dessert will shine even brighter!

• Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest elevate the flavor of your cake, making it vibrant and zesty. It enhances the citrus notes that are essential for this dessert.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep your cake light and airy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. You want it perfectly baked without being dry.

• 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 drizzle that stays on top and adds sweetness.

• Experiment with flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract or almond extract for an extra layer of flavor. This subtle addition can bring new depth to the classic lemon taste.

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

Presenting your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert beautifully can make all the difference! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Lemon Slices: Thin slices of lemon placed around the cake or on top create a refreshing visual appeal.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprig of mint not only adds color but also a hint of freshness that complements the lemon flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dairy-free alternative that pairs wonderfully with the tanginess of the lemon cake. Just whip coconut cream until fluffy and sweeten to taste.
• Berry Compote: A mix of berries cooked down into a syrupy sauce offers a nice contrast in flavor and texture. The tartness from berries balances well with the sweet lemon cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts slightly on warm slices, adding richness and comfort to each bite.
• Tea or Herbal Infusion: Serving this dessert alongside a cup of herbal tea or infused water can enhance its refreshing qualities while providing a calming end to the meal.

Enjoy making this delightful dessert that brings joy to any gathering! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is not only a delightful treat but also an excellent choice for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance, leaving you with more time to enjoy the company of friends and family. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious cake.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, remove slices from the fridge or freezer.
• For refrigerated slices, heat in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds until just warm.
• For frozen slices, allow them to thaw first, then microwave as above or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare this cake a day in advance. Just store it properly, and it will taste just as fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What makes This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite so special?

Its simplicity and vibrant lemon flavor make this dessert stand out. Plus, it’s made in one bowl, making cleanup a breeze!

Can I substitute ingredients in This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert?

Yes! You can use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk if you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives without compromising flavor.

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

When stored correctly, the cake stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days and can be refrigerated for up to a week!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite! It’s not just about enjoying a slice but creating wonderful memories as you bake. Whether it’s for a special occasion or simply a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to brighten your day. Enjoy every zesty bite and happy baking!