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

If you’re looking for a bright and cheerful dessert to lift your spirits, then look no further! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is just what you need. With its zesty flavor and delightful sweetness, it has become a beloved staple in my kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply treating yourself on a busy weeknight, this cake fits the bill perfectly. It’s easy to whip up, and the aroma of lemon baking will fill your home with warmth.

What truly makes this dessert special is how it brings everyone together. The light and fluffy texture combined with that tangy lemon glaze makes every bite a little piece of sunshine. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s Paul Hollywood’s favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: This recipe is a one-bowl wonder! No complicated steps or fancy equipment needed.
• Family-Friendly Flavors: Kids and adults alike will adore the bright lemon taste—it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special celebration, this cake shines on every table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it a day in advance! Just glaze before serving for an effortless dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this delightful cake is a breeze! You probably already have many of these simple, wholesome items in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

• 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 One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to switch things up, here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Fresh Berries: Toss in some blueberries or raspberries for an extra burst of flavor and color.
• Lemon Poppy Seed Twist: Add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds to the batter for a delightful crunch.
• Coconut Cream Topping: Instead of glazing, top it off with whipped coconut cream for a tropical twist.
• Herbal Infusion: Add fresh rosemary or thyme into the batter for an aromatic surprise that pairs beautifully with lemon.

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). A well-heated oven ensures even baking, which is key to getting that perfect rise on your cake.

Step 2: Cream Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into your mixture, giving the cake its lovely texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Next, add the eggs one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each addition. This helps create an emulsion that binds everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Mix in Lemon Zest and Juice

Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice until everything is well combined. This gives your cake that irresistible citrus flavor that will make your taste buds sing.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients while alternating with whole milk. Mixing just until smooth prevents overworking the batter—this helps keep your cake tender.

Step 7: Pour into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. This step gives you an even surface for baking—important for presentation!

Step 8: Bake

Place it in the oven and 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 simply heavenly!

Step 9: Prepare Glaze

While the cake bakes, mix powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth to create your glaze. This simple mixture adds that final touch of sweetness and tangy flavor.

Step 10: Cool the Cake

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling it slightly helps set its structure so it doesn’t crumble when you glaze it.

Step 11: Drizzle Glaze

Finally, drizzle that delicious lemon glaze over your warm cake. Let it set before serving so everyone can enjoy that lovely shiny finish!

And there you have it—a delightful treat ready for sharing! Enjoy every slice of this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite!

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

Creating a delightful lemon dessert is easy with a few handy tips to ensure your cake turns out perfect every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having your butter, eggs, and milk at room temperature helps the mixture combine more seamlessly, resulting in a lighter cake.

• Don’t skip the zest: Freshly grated lemon zest adds an intense citrus flavor that elevates the cake’s taste. It’s the secret to that refreshing zing!

• Check for doneness: Baking times can vary, so check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time by inserting a toothpick. It should come out clean for perfect texture.

• Let it cool before glazing: Allowing your cake to cool slightly before drizzling with glaze ensures that it doesn’t melt off and creates a beautiful finish.

• Store properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain moisture and flavor.

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

Presenting your Lemon Dessert beautifully can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to make it look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of mixed berries like strawberries or blueberries adds color and a burst of flavor that complements the lemony sweetness.

• Mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint not only looks appealing but also adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dessert.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the tartness of the lemon cake, creating a delightful balance in flavors.

• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream provides a luscious topping that enhances the citrusy notes of the cake without overpowering it.

• Lemon sorbet: For an extra refreshing touch, serve with lemon sorbet. Its icy texture and tartness will complement your dessert perfectly.

• A fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a fresh and healthy side that enhances your dining experience without being too heavy.

Now you’re all set to impress friends and family with this delightful treat! Enjoy every bite of Paul Hollywood’s favorite lemon dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat anytime. Whether you’re planning for a gathering or just want to have something sweet on hand, this cake stores beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
• To maintain its glaze, keep the cake covered until ready to serve.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label the package with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze the cake without glaze and add it after thawing.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Avoid reheating the entire cake in the oven, as this can dry it out.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite:

Can I use lemon extract instead of fresh lemon juice?

Yes! While fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can substitute it with lemon extract. Use about 1 teaspoon of extract for this recipe.

How do I ensure my cake comes out fluffy?

To achieve a fluffy texture in This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite, make sure to cream the butter and sugar well until light and airy. Also, avoid overmixing once you add flour.

What can I substitute for milk in this recipe?

You can use any plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, as a great alternative to whole milk. It will still yield a moist and delicious cake.

Can I add fruits or nuts into the batter?

Absolutely! Adding blueberries or slivered almonds would complement the lemon flavor beautifully. Just fold them gently into your batter before pouring it into the pan.

How should I serve this dessert?

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is delightful on its own but can also be paired with whipped coconut cream or fresh berries for added indulgence!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite as much as I do! It’s a simple yet elegant treat that brightens any day with its delightful citrusy flavor. Remember that baking is all about joy and creativity; don’t hesitate to make it your own! Happy baking!