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

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that will brighten your day, look no further! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen. It’s light, zesty, and incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings. The fresh lemon flavor brings a burst of sunshine to any occasion, which is why this cake holds a special place in the hearts of many.

Imagine serving this beautiful lemon cake at your next gathering and watching everyone’s faces light up with joy. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings people together over a sweet, citrusy slice of happiness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple preparation: With just one bowl required, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-friendly flavors: Everyone loves the refreshing taste of lemon, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a birthday or just because, this cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can bake it in advance and glaze it just before serving!
• Deliciously moist: Thanks to the butter and milk, each bite is soft and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how simple and wholesome the ingredients are for this lovely cake! Gather these pantry staples and get ready to create something 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up while still keeping all that delicious lemon goodness.

• Add berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Lemon poppy seed version: Mix in 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
• Coconut addition: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flair.
• Swap the glaze: Try using an orange glaze instead of lemon for a different citrusy kick.

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. This ensures your cake bakes evenly and doesn’t stick when you’re ready to serve!

Step 2: Cream Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it introduces air into the mixture, making your cake wonderfully light.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps incorporate them smoothly into the batter, ensuring an even texture throughout.

Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Zest and Juice

Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice until everything is well combined. The zest adds an aromatic freshness that elevates the flavor beautifully!

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour, helping your cake rise perfectly.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with whole milk. Mixing until smooth helps create that delectable batter we all love!

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While your cake cools slightly, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth to create your delightful glaze. This will add an extra layer of sweetness on top!

Step 9: Cool Down

Allow the cake to cool in its pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step prevents it from becoming soggy while cooling.

Step 10: Drizzle with Glaze

Once cooled slightly but still warm, drizzle that gorgeous lemon glaze over your cake. Let it set before slicing into this beauty for serving!

And there you have it—a simple yet stunning dessert that captures all the bright flavors of lemon! Enjoy every bite of this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite!

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

Baking is a joyful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can make this delightful lemon dessert even more special!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and a lighter cake.

• Don’t skip the zest: Freshly grated lemon zest adds an incredible burst of flavor that enhances the citrus profile of the cake. It’s like sunshine in every bite!

• Measure accurately: For best results, use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you’re using the right quantities. This will help your cake rise properly and achieve the perfect texture.

• Let it cool completely before glazing: Allowing the cake to cool will prevent the glaze from melting away and ensures it sets beautifully on top of your cake.

• Experiment with flavors: While this recipe shines with lemon, feel free to add other citrus zests or extracts to customize it. Orange or lime zest can add a lovely twist!

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

Presenting your cake beautifully can make all the difference when serving. Here are some ideas to make your dessert shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of raspberries or blueberries on top not only adds color but also complements the tartness of the lemon.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint can brighten up your dessert and add a refreshing finish.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a creamy topping that’s dairy-free, whip some chilled coconut cream until fluffy and dollop it generously over each slice.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the zesty cake, making each bite irresistible.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light side that balances the sweetness of the dessert.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer some plain yogurt with granola and citrus segments for a tangy side that pairs beautifully with the lemon flavor.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea offers a soothing complement to this vibrant dessert, creating a delightful after-dinner experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress friends and family with Paul Hollywood’s favorite lemon cake! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy its refreshing flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

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

Reheating

• If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place slices on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful lemon dessert.

Can I use bottled lemon juice for This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite?

While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. However, it may not have the same vibrant taste that fresh lemons provide.

How can I make This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that other ingredients are also gluten-free certified.

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

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Fresh berries also make a lovely garnish!

How long does This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert last?

When stored properly, this cake will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days and in the fridge for about a week. It also freezes well!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding poppy seeds, blueberries, or even a hint of ginger for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite as much as I do! It’s a bright, cheerful treat that’s sure to bring smiles all around. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it on a quiet afternoon, this cake is always a winner. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your results!