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

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings a touch of sunshine to any occasion, you’ve come to the right place! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is not just a cake; it’s a slice of happiness. The bright, zesty flavors make it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings and celebrations. Trust me, once you bake this cake, it will quickly become a staple in your home!

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is. You won’t need fancy equipment or hours in the kitchen. Just one bowl and some simple ingredients are all you need to whip up this tasty treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy: With just one bowl required, cleanup is a breeze!
• Citrusy Goodness: The fresh lemon flavor is refreshing and uplifting.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The cake stays delicious for days, so you can bake ahead and enjoy!
• Kid-Friendly: Even the little ones can help out with mixing — it’s a fun kitchen activity!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully! You likely already have many of these 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
– 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, allowing you to customize it according to your tastes and preferences! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Berries: Toss in some blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh mint or basil for an herbal note that complements the lemon.
• Zesty Orange: Swap half of the lemon juice for orange juice for a sweet citrus blend.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture.

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 the cake bakes evenly from the get-go!

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 as it incorporates air into the mixture, making your cake wonderfully light.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps create an even batter and gives your cake structure.

Step 4: Mix in Lemon Zest and Juice

Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice until well combined. The zest adds vibrant aroma and flavor that elevates this dessert.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix until smooth but avoid overmixing; we want that lovely texture!

Step 7: Bake It Up

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean — this means it’s perfectly baked!

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While your cake bakes, mix together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth for that sweet glaze on top.

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in its pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. This resting time allows moisture to escape without making it soggy.

Step 10: Glaze It Up!

Drizzle your delicious lemon glaze over the warm cake so it seeps into every bite. Let it set before serving — if you can wait that long!

And there you have it! A delightful One-Bowl Lemon Dessert that’s sure to bring smiles all around! Enjoy every bite!

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

Baking can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially with this delightful lemon dessert! Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature helps them combine more easily, resulting in a smoother batter that bakes evenly.

• Don’t skip the zest: Fresh lemon zest adds an intense burst of flavor that brightens the cake. It enhances the overall citrusy taste and aroma, making each bite refreshing.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your cake at the 30-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready!

• Let it cool before glazing: Allowing the cake to cool slightly ensures that the glaze adheres better and doesn’t melt away. This results in a beautiful finish that you’ll love to show off!

• Store properly: If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and delicious.

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

Serving this lemon dessert can be as simple or as elaborate as you like! Here are some creative ideas to present this delightful cake beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh berries: A handful of strawberries or blueberries adds a pop of color and complements the lemon flavor beautifully.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a creamy touch, serve with whipped coconut cream on top or on the side for guests who enjoy extra richness.
• Mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint not only look stunning but also add a refreshing herbal note that pairs wonderfully with lemon.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that contrasts beautifully with the tangy lemon cake, creating a delightful blend of flavors.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits adds freshness and can balance out the sweetness of the dessert.
• Herbal tea: Pairing with chamomile or mint tea provides a soothing beverage option that complements the citrus notes without overpowering them.
• Yogurt parfait: Layered yogurt with honey and granola adds texture and creaminess, enhancing your dessert experience with an additional dimension of flavor.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with Paul Hollywood’s favorite one-bowl lemon dessert! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is not only easy to make but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and store it, ensuring you have a delightful treat ready whenever the craving strikes.

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.
• For longer storage, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• For best results, slice the cake before freezing; this allows you to take out individual portions as needed.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until just heated through.
• Alternatively, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious lemon dessert.

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

Absolutely! This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is perfect for making ahead. Just follow the storage tips above to keep it fresh and tasty until you’re ready to enjoy it.

What can I use instead of eggs in This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite?

You can use unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as an egg substitute. Both options work well and help maintain moisture!

How do I know when my lemon dessert is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It should also have a lightly golden top and spring back when gently pressed.

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

Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding poppy seeds or even a hint of vanilla extract. Just remember that lemon should remain the star of this delightful dessert!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite. Its bright citrus flavor and simple preparation make it truly special. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this cake is sure to bring a smile. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me!