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

If you are a fan of bright, zesty flavors that instantly lift your spirits, then This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is an absolute must-try. It combines simplicity with elegance, creating a moist, tender cake infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, finished off with a glossy lemon glaze that adds a perfect tangy sweetness. Whether you’re baking to impress guests or indulging in a cozy afternoon treat, this dessert brings a refreshing burst of sunshine to every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite. Each one plays a role in creating the cake’s moist crumb and bright lemony character.

• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture while keeping the cake light.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest: Infuses the batter with intense citrus aroma and flavor.
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brings brightness and a delicate tang to every bite.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, ensuring the right texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and keeps it light.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• ½ cup whole milk: Adds moisture and softens the crumb for that perfect bite.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Sweetens the glaze for a smooth, shiny finish.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze): Packs the glaze with fresh citrus punch.

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

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing a 9-inch round cake pan. This step ensures your cake will bake evenly and release effortlessly when it’s ready.

Step 2: Cream Sugar and Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and softened butter until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and inviting. This part sets the stage for a delightfully tender cake that melts in your mouth.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Incorporate the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. This careful blending builds a smooth, cohesive batter, essential for that perfect cake texture.

Step 4: Stir in Lemon Zest and Juice

Now, fold in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice. These fresh citrus elements are what truly make This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite sparkle with authentic lemon flavor.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the raising agents and seasoning are evenly distributed, creating that ideal rise and flavor balance.

Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Alternately

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet lemon batter, alternating with the whole milk. Mix gently until the batter is smooth and perfectly combined—avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 7: Bake

Pour your luscious batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling that your cake is perfectly baked.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While your cake bakes, mix together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until you achieve a smooth, glossy glaze. This finishing touch brings a lovely, shiny coating with a burst of tangy sweetness.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Once out of the oven, let your cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack and drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to set and become irresistibly glossy before serving.

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

Garnishes

Enhance this delightful dessert’s visual appeal and flavor with a sprinkle of extra lemon zest or a few edible flowers for a pop of color. Fresh mint leaves also add a refreshing aroma that complements the tangy lemon.

Side Dishes

This dessert pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Both options balance the lemon’s sharpness with creamy sweetness, making each bite a harmonious treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve individual slices on delicate dessert plates with a drizzle of berry coulis or scattered fresh berries around. Layer cake slices between thin lemon curd and whipped cream for a fancy parfait twist that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. To keep it moist longer, refrigerate for up to 4 days, but allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooled cake tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes to revive that fresh-baked feel. Be careful not to overheat, so the glaze doesn’t melt away completely.

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice for this recipe?

While freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for that vibrant, authentic flavor, you can substitute bottled juice in a pinch. Just make sure it’s pure lemon juice without added sugars or preservatives for the best results.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk. The texture may vary slightly, but the lemony brightness will still shine through beautifully.

How can I prevent the cake from drying out?

The key is not to overbake. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes and remove the cake as soon as a toothpick comes out clean. Also, proper storage in an airtight container helps maintain moisture.

Can I double the recipe for a larger cake?

You can double the ingredients, but it’s best to use a larger baking pan or two pans to ensure even baking. Keep the same oven temperature and check for doneness earlier, as baking time may vary with thickness.

What makes This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite distinct from other lemon cakes?

Its simplicity and the signature one-bowl method paired with a perfectly balanced lemon glaze make this cake stand out. It’s moist, tangy, and easy to make, capturing the essence of Paul Hollywood’s favorite lemon cake with minimal fuss.

Final Thoughts

Enjoying This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite is like welcoming a little sunshine into your kitchen. Its effortless preparation and vibrant lemon notes combine to create a cake that’s both comforting and exciting. I encourage you to try this recipe, share it with friends, and make it a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire.

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