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

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings sunshine to your day, look no further! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is a recipe that has earned its place in many hearts, including mine. It’s bursting with bright lemon flavor and is incredibly easy to make, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you need a cake to celebrate a special occasion or just want something sweet to brighten your afternoon, this dessert is sure to impress.

With its simple preparation and refreshing taste, it’s no wonder this lemon cake has become a beloved staple in kitchens everywhere. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s get started on this zesty adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This one-bowl cake means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your delicious creation.
• Perfectly citrusy: The fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the flavor, making every bite refreshing.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the sweet and tangy taste of this dessert—kids and adults alike!
• Versatile for occasions: Whether it’s a birthday party or just an afternoon treat, this cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead friendly: Bake it in advance and glaze before serving for a hassle-free dessert!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful lemon dessert! You likely have most of these items in your pantry already.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Coconut flair: Mix shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical touch.
• Lemon poppy seed cake: Add a couple of tablespoons of poppy seeds for extra texture.
• Cream cheese frosting: Swap the glaze for a creamy frosting for an indulgent finish.

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) while you gather your ingredients. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

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 as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake that lovely light texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps create an emulsion that binds everything together perfectly.

Step 4: Stir in Zest and Juice

Next, stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice until well combined. The zest adds aromatic oils that enhance the lemon flavor throughout the cake.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing them separately ensures even distribution of the baking powder so that your cake rises nicely.

Step 6: Mix Dry with Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Mixing until smooth ensures everything is well incorporated without overworking the batter.

Step 7: Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. This helps ensure even baking.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The wonderful aroma filling your kitchen will be hard to resist!

Step 9: Prepare Glaze

While the cake bakes, prepare your glaze by combining powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth. This adds an extra layer of tangy sweetness when drizzled on top.

Step 10: Cool Cake

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling process helps maintain its structure.

Step 11: Drizzle Glaze

Finally, drizzle that luscious lemon glaze over your warm cake. Let it set before serving so everyone can enjoy that perfect burst of flavor!

And there you have it—your very own One-Bowl Lemon Dessert! Enjoy sharing this lovely treat with friends and family!

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

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’re sure to create the perfect lemon dessert every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature allows for better mixing and a fluffier cake texture. This helps the batter emulsify more effectively, leading to an even bake.

• Zest before juicing: By zesting your lemons before juicing them, you can easily incorporate the fragrant zest into your batter without worrying about sticky hands. The zest adds a bright citrus flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cake.

• Don’t overmix: Once you add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and airy one.

• Check for doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your cake during baking. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs for perfect doneness.

• Let it cool properly: Allowing your cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes ensures it holds its shape when transferring to a wire rack. This prevents any breakage and keeps your presentation looking fabulous!

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

Serving this delightful lemon dessert is all about making it look as good as it tastes! Here are some ideas to present your treat beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a touch of color and freshness, complementing the zesty flavor of the cake.
• Lemon slices: Thinly sliced lemons placed decoratively around the cake enhance its citrus theme and provide visual appeal.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream offers a creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the tangy lemon flavor.

Side Dishes

• Berry medley: A mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries brings a burst of sweetness and beautiful color that complements the lemon dessert perfectly.
• Vanilla ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor, making each bite more enjoyable.
• Greek yogurt with honey: The tangy yogurt drizzled with honey provides a rich creaminess that balances the acidity of the lemon cake beautifully.
• Tea or herbal infusions: A warm cup of chamomile or green tea serves as a calming accompaniment that enhances both flavor profiles without overpowering them.

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is not only easy to make but also versatile in serving options. Enjoy sharing this treat with family and friends—it’s bound to become their new favorite too!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance or save some for later, making it a delightful treat whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Remember to let the cake sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving if stored in the fridge.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If desired, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the whole cake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

Can I make This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. Additionally, use almond milk or any plant-based milk instead of whole milk.

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

When stored properly, this dessert can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing it!

Can I add more lemon flavor to This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert?

Absolutely! You can increase the amount of lemon zest and juice according to your taste preference. Just be cautious not to alter other ingredients too much.

What should I serve with This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert?

This delightful lemon dessert pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of sorbet. Whipped coconut cream also makes a lovely topping!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful dessert! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is not just Paul Hollywood’s favorite; it’s sure to become yours as well. Its bright flavors and simple preparation are perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients and start baking—I’m excited for you to experience this citrusy delight! Happy baking!