Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Easy Delight!

Name: Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Easy Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Aria B

November 20, 2025

Introduction to Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

When it comes to baking, few flavors are as refreshing or versatile as lemon. This zestful citrus fruit has earned its place in our hearts (and kitchens) due to its ability to brighten up the most mundane dishes. Whether in the form of sweet tarts or fluffy cakes, lemon desserts are a classic choice loved by home bakers everywhere. In the realm of lemon-infused delights, Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert truly shines, and here’s why it should be on your baking radar.

What Makes Lemon Desserts a Classic Choice for Home Bakers?

Lemon’s natural acidity creates a perfect balance when combined with sugar, resulting in a flavor that’s both tart and sweet. This makes lemon desserts incredibly satisfying, hitting that sweet spot that keeps bakers returning for more. Interestingly, research shows that citrus fragrances can even boost mood and reduce stress, making lemon-based treats a go-to for a little pick-me-up.

Home bakers gravitate toward lemon desserts for their simplicity and fast prep time. A one-bowl recipe means you can whip it up quickly, placing less stress on your busy schedule. Who doesn’t love a dessert that allows them to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious results?

Paul Hollywood, renowned for his impeccable baking techniques and charming demeanor, has crafted a recipe that highlights these benefits beautifully. His One-Bowl Lemon Dessert not only showcases the delightful zing of lemon but also simplifies the baking process without compromising on taste. You can explore more about the power of lemon flavors in culinary creations on BBC Good Food.

Another reason for its popularity is its versatility. You can enjoy this dessert as a light finish to a comforting dinner or as an afternoon treat with a cup of tea. Picture this: a moist, fragrant cake that envelops your senses with every bite. Perfect for both cozy nights at home and gathering with friends!

In the upcoming recipe, you’ll discover how easy it is to bring a touch of Paul Hollywood’s baking genius into your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to brighten your baking repertoire!

Ingredients for Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

When you’re ready to whip up Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert, it all starts with a handful of essential ingredients that come together seamlessly. Here’s what you’ll need to create a zesty delight that will leave everyone craving more:

Essential ingredients for a zesty lemon cake

All-purpose flour: The backbone of your cake, providing the necessary structure.
Granulated sugar: It sweetens the batter, balancing the tanginess of the lemons.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps your cake rise perfectly.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors beautifully.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
Zest and juice of fresh lemons: The stars of this dessert, bringing bright and refreshing citrus notes.
Eggs: They bind everything together while adding moisture.
Milk or a dairy-free alternative: This helps achieve the ideal cake consistency.

Optional ingredients for variations

If you’re in the mood to get creative, consider adding any of these ingredients to elevate your Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert:

Lemon extract: Intensifies the lemon flavor for an even zestier cake.
Poppy seeds: These little seeds add texture and a lovely visual appeal.
Cream cheese frosting: For those who love a sweet, tangy topping.
Fresh berries: Serve on the side for a pop of color and additional flavor.

So why not give this delightful cake a try? You’re bound to impress friends or simply treat yourself to a slice of citrus heaven. For a deeper dive into lemon desserts, visit BBC Good Food for more inspiration!

Preparing Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Are you ready to impress your friends at your next gathering or simply indulge in a delicious treat? Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is a delightful creation that perfectly balances sweetness and tang. Plus, it’s super easy to make with just one bowl! Follow along as we guide you through the preparation of this lovely dessert.

Gather your ingredients

Before diving in, let’s check what you need. This recipe calls for simple yet flavorful ingredients:

200g unsalted butter, softened
250g granulated sugar
4 large eggs
Zest and juice of 2 unwaxed lemons
300g all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
A pinch of salt
120ml milk

Freshly squeezed lemon juice really elevates this dessert, so opt for that instead of the bottled version. Now that you have everything, let’s get started!

Preheat the oven and prepare the baking pan

First things first: preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step is crucial for achieving that beautifully baked cake. While your oven is warming up, prepare a baking pan—an 8-inch round pan works perfectly. Grease it with a little butter and dust it lightly with flour, or line it with parchment paper. A well-prepared pan makes all the difference when it comes to cake release.

Cream the butter and sugar for the perfect base

In your mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. You’ll want to beat them until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process is essential! It incorporates air into the mix, which contributes to the cake’s lovely texture. A stand mixer can help speed things up, but a good old whisk works just fine too!

Incorporate eggs for texture and moisture

Next, add the eggs to your butter and sugar mixture. Make sure to add them one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will not only help in maintaining the mixture’s fluffiness but will also ensure even distribution of moisture, resulting in a soft and moist cake.

Add the lemon zest and juice for that signature flavor

Now comes the star of the show: lemon! Grate the zest of your lemons directly into the bowl, and then squeeze out the juice, ensuring you catch any seeds. The zest provides a wonderful citrus aroma, while the juice adds the zing. What do you think—can you smell that freshness already?

Fold in the dry ingredients and milk to create the batter

It’s time to bring it all together. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into your creamy base, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture; this technique helps maintain the batter’s structure. Be gentle—overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

Bake to golden perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Slide it into your preheated oven, and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched. It’s exciting watching it rise!

Prepare the glaze while the cake bakes

While you’re waiting, let’s get that delicious glaze ready! In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and powdered sugar until smooth. This glaze will bring out the cake’s citrus flavor and add that shiny finish that looks so appealing.

Drizzle the glaze to finish the dessert

Once your cake has cooled a bit, carefully remove it from the pan. Place it on a wire rack, and while it’s still warm, drizzle the lemon glaze on top. The glaze will soak into the cake, making it even more moist and delightful.

Now you have crafted Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert! Gather your loved ones, and enjoy this wonderful creation that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Happy baking! For more baking inspiration, check out BBC Good Food for a treasure trove of delicious recipes.

Creative Variations on One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

When it comes to sweet treats, Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is a delight on its own. However, why not get a little adventurous? Here are some creative twists that are sure to impress your friends and taste buds alike!

Lemon and Berry Fusion Dessert

Imagine the zesty brightness of lemon paired with the juicy goodness of fresh berries. This variation is perfect for those warm summer days when you want a refreshing dessert. Simply fold in a cup of your favorite mixed berries (like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries) into your lemon dessert batter. As the berries bake, they create a delightful melody of flavors. Not only does this add a pop of color, but it also introduces a wonderful tartness that complements the lemon.

Try topping your dessert with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, and you’ll have a stunning treat that feels extra special. If you’re looking for more berry inspiration, check out BBC Good Food’s berry recipes.

Lemon Dessert with a Twist of Coconut

For a tropical flair, consider adding shredded coconut to your one-bowl lemon dessert. By folding in half a cup of unsweetened shredded coconut, you’ll create a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the tangy lemon. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can even top it with a coconut glaze made from powdered sugar and coconut milk.

This variation not only brings a beachy vibe to your baking but also makes an excellent conversation starter. Plus, coconut is known for its health benefits, making this twist both tasty and nutritious. Did you know that coconut can help improve heart health?

With these creative variations, your one-bowl lemon dessert will never feel dull again! So, roll up your sleeves and let your culinary creativity shine.

Baking Notes for Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Tips for Achieving the Best Crumb

To nail the texture of Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert, the freshness of your ingredients matters significantly. Opt for freshly squeezed lemon juice over bottled for that zesty punch. Make sure your butter is at room temperature; it will blend better and create a tender crumb. When mixing your batter, don’t overmix—stop as soon as you see all the ingredients combined. This helps retain that light, airy texture you desire.

Storage Advice for Optimal Freshness

To keep your lemon dessert tasting delightful for days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to enjoy it longer, refrigerating it will preserve its flavors for about a week. Just remember, for the best experience, let it come to room temperature before serving. If you’re thinking of baking ahead for a gathering, this dessert freezes well too. Just wrap it tightly and keep it in the freezer for up to a month!

If you’re eager to elevate your baking game, consider checking out American Bakers Association for more expert tips.

Serving Suggestions for One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Perfect pairings for a refreshing dessert experience

If you’re diving into Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert, you’ll want to think about what complements its zesty flavor. This delightful treat pairs beautifully with fresh berries—think strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a vibrant color contrast and added juiciness. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream also elevates the dessert, offering a rich creaminess that balances the tartness of the lemon.

For a unique drink pairing, consider iced herbal tea or sparkling lemonade to keep the refreshing vibe going. These options enhance flavors without overwhelming your palate.

Creative serving ideas for gatherings or celebrations

Turn your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert into a showstopper at your next gathering! Consider serving it in stylish individual glass cups, garnished with a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of lemon zest. This not only looks chic, but it also offers guests their own little treat.

For a fun twist, you can even layer the lemon dessert with crumbled biscuits to create a lemon trifle. Your friends will rave about the texture and taste, making it a hit at parties.

If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out these ideas on Food Network for unique ways to elevate your dessert game.

Time Breakdown for Making One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Preparation time

Making Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is easier than you might think! You’ll spend about 15 minutes gathering your ingredients and mixing them together. Just a quick tip: having everything ready beforehand not only speeds things up but also makes baking feel like a breeze.

Baking time

Once your mixture is in the oven, you can relax for 35-40 minutes. This is the perfect time to sip on a refreshing herbal tea or prep your favorite toppings while you wait for that delightful aroma to fill your kitchen.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at around 50-55 minutes from prep to finish. Just think—less than an hour, and you’ll have a scrumptious dessert ready to impress! Don’t forget to check in on your creation halfway through baking for that perfectly golden top.

By the way, if you’re curious about other lemon recipes, check out BBC Good Food for more inspiration!

Nutritional Information for One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Estimated calories per slice

When satisfying your sweet tooth with Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert, you’ll be pleased to know that each slice contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a delightful treat, especially for those mindful of their calorie intake but still craving something indulgent.

Sugar and fat content

In terms of sugar and fat, this delightful dessert strikes a balance. Each slice has about 15 grams of sugar and 8 grams of fat. While it includes sugar to enhance that zesty lemon flavor, it’s advisable to enjoy it in moderation. After all, every good dessert should bring a bit of joy without the guilt!

Keep in mind that acknowledging the nutritional values can help you enjoy Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert guilt-free. For more nutritional insights, check resources like the USDA FoodData Central and Nutritional Guidelines to make informed choices!

By appreciating the nutritional breakdown of this delightful dessert, you can savor every moment without worries. Happy baking!

FAQs about Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Can I substitute the ingredients for dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is versatile and can be adapted to meet various dietary needs. Here are some substitutions you can try:

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. Brands like King Arthur Flour offer great options that perform well in baking.
Dairy-Free: Coconut milk or almond milk can work wonderfully as a substitute for regular milk. They add a subtle flavor that complements the lemon.
Egg-Free: Applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water can replace eggs effectively. For each egg, use 1/4 cup applesauce or 1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water.

Feel free to experiment!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

If you happen to have leftovers of this delightful lemon dessert, storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Simply place your dessert in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should keep well for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to a month!

How can I make the dessert more or less sweet?

Adjusting the sweetness of your Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is easy! If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can increase the sugar by a quarter cup. For a less sweet version, try reducing the sugar by the same amount. Remember that the tanginess of the lemon also plays a role in flavor balance, so taste as you go!

By keeping these tips in mind, you can tailor this delightful dessert to your preferences and dietary needs, ensuring a memorable dining experience every time. For more baking inspiration and tips, check out BBC Good Food or The Kitchn!

Conclusion on Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

This delightful dessert deserves a spot in your recipe collection for its refreshing burst of lemon flavor and the simplicity of its one-bowl approach. Perfect for busy weekday evenings or last-minute gatherings, Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert not only saves time but also offers a fantastic way to impress friends and family.

Baking should be enjoyable, not stressful, and this recipe delivers just that. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar, and you’ve got a dessert that looks as good as it tastes. So why wait? Whip up this lemony treat and brighten your day or your next dinner party!

For more lemon inspiration, check out Serious Eats for expert tips and creative variations!