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

If you’re looking for a simple yet delightful dessert that will brighten up any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is a cake that has earned its spot in my heart (and belly!). It’s light, zesty, and oh-so-easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I promise, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again!

What makes this lemon cake truly special is not just its flavor but also its simplicity. With just one bowl required, cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re hosting friends or just wanting a sweet treat after dinner, this cake will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This cake comes together in no time. Just mix all the ingredients in one bowl!
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love the sweet and tangy flavor of lemon. It’s a hit with everyone!
• Perfect for any occasion: From casual weeknight dinners to birthday parties, this cake fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it a day ahead and let the flavors develop—it’s even better the next day!
• Deliciously refreshing: The bright taste of lemon will awaken your taste buds and bring sunshine to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful dessert, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything together so we can get started!

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 flexible and can easily be adapted based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries to add a pop of color and flavor.
• Try different citrus: Substitute lime or orange juice for a unique twist on the classic lemon flavor.
• Incorporate nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or almonds for added texture and crunch.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Preheating ensures even baking, giving you that lovely golden crust.

Step 2: Cream Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, making your cake tender.

Step 3: Add Eggs One at a Time

Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. This helps create an emulsion that keeps the batter smooth and consistent.

Step 4: Mix in Lemon Zest and Juice

Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice until fully combined. The zest adds an aromatic burst of flavor that elevates the cake!

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another 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 Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while alternating with milk. Mixing thoroughly here helps ensure there are no lumps—a smooth batter leads to a smooth cake!

Step 7: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour your batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. A level surface ensures even baking.

Step 8: Bake

Place your pan in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it as ovens may vary!

Step 9: Prepare Your Glaze

While your cake bakes, mix together powdered sugar and lemon juice until you achieve a smooth glaze consistency. This sweet-tart topping is what makes this dessert extra special!

Step 10: Cool Your Cake

Once baked, allow your cake to cool in its pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling allows it to firm up before adding that delicious glaze.

Step 11: Drizzle with Glaze

Finally, drizzle your luscious lemon glaze over the warm cake, letting it soak in just slightly before serving. Enjoy every bite of your creation—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, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends with this zesty cake!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest will give your dessert a vibrant flavor that bottled alternatives simply can’t match.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until combined to maintain a light, fluffy texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

• Let it cool completely before glazing: This allows the glaze to set beautifully and prevents it from soaking into the warm cake too quickly, ensuring a lovely finish.

• Experiment with flavors: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some poppy seeds or even a hint of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor!

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

Serving this delightful lemon dessert is as fun as making it! Its bright flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s an afternoon tea or a celebratory gathering.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of raspberries or blueberries adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the lemon perfectly.

• Whipped coconut cream: For those avoiding dairy, whipped coconut cream provides a creamy touch that balances the tartness of the lemon.

• Mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only looks beautiful but also adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor experience.

Side Dishes

• Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of oranges, grapefruits, and a drizzle of honey offers a light contrast to the sweetness of the cake.

• Herbal Tea: Pairing your dessert with herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, creates a calming end to your meal while complementing the lemon flavor.

• Vanilla Ice Cream Alternative: Serve alongside coconut or almond-based ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

• Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can balance out the sweetness and add depth to your dessert experience.

Enjoy creating and sharing this zesty treasure with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is perfect for meal prep, making it a delightful treat you can enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve its fresh flavor.

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, refrigerate it to extend freshness 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 container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, place slices on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful lemon dessert!

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

Absolutely! You can prepare this one-bowl lemon dessert a day in advance. Just store it properly as outlined above, and it will taste just as fresh!

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

This dessert stands out due to its simple yet vibrant blend of flavors. The balance of sweetness and tanginess creates a refreshing treat that’s loved by many!

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

Yes! You can use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk alternatives to cater to dietary preferences while maintaining delicious flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite! It’s such a wonderful recipe that captures the essence of sunshine with every bite. Enjoy making it and sharing it with friends and family; I’m sure they will love it just as much as you will. Happy baking!