Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon is a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your table. This one-bowl cake is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to family gatherings. Its moist texture and zesty glaze make it a standout dessert that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and deliciously refreshing, it’s a must-try for lemon lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just one bowl needed for preparation, cleanup is a breeze, making this cake perfect for busy bakers.
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest ensures every bite bursts with citrus goodness.
- Versatile Dessert: Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or an elegant tea party.
- Gorgeous Glaze: The glossy lemon glaze adds an appealing finish, elevating the cake’s presentation.
- Kid-Friendly Baking: Simple enough for kids to help with, making it a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
To make Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon, you’ll need some essential tools. These tools will help ensure your baking process goes smoothly and efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 23 cm round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spills.
- Whisk: A whisk ensures your batter becomes light and fluffy by incorporating air effectively.
- Parchment paper: Lining the cake pan with parchment prevents sticking, ensuring easy release after baking.

Ingredients
For Paul Hollywood’s moist, zesty lemon cake, gather these ingredients:
For the Cake
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 115 g unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
- 60 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 190 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 120 ml whole milk
For the Glaze
- 120 g powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
How to Make Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 175°C. Prepare your 23 cm round cake pan by greasing it well and lining the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter for a tender crumb.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture. Make sure to mix thoroughly after each addition until you achieve a creamy consistency.
Step 4: Mix in Lemon Zest and Juice
Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest along with the freshly squeezed lemon juice. This will give your cake a vibrant citrus aroma while enhancing its flavor.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt directly into the mixing bowl. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Incorporate Milk
Gradually pour in the whole milk while stirring until you have a smooth batter without lumps.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30–35 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Prepare Glaze
While your cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar with two tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth to create your glossy glaze.
Step 9: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, let the cake cool in its pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle your prepared lemon glaze over the warm cake allowing it to soak in beautifully.
Enjoy this delightful Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon as an unforgettable tea-time treat!
How to Serve Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Serving Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake can elevate any occasion, from casual tea times to festive gatherings. Here are some delightful ways to present this zesty treat.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve slices of the lemon cake alongside a medley of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of color and flavor.
Accompanied by Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the tangy lemon cake, enhancing its delightful taste.
As a Layered Cake
- Slice the cake horizontally and spread lemon curd or cream cheese frosting in between layers for an elegant dessert presentation.
With Iced Tea
- Pair the cake with a refreshing glass of iced tea. The cool drink complements the citrus notes of the cake beautifully.
Topped with Candied Lemon Zest
- Garnish each slice with candied lemon zest for an added touch of sweetness and texture that enhances the lemon flavor.
How to Perfect Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Perfecting your One-Bowl Lemon cake can lead to consistently delicious results. Here are some helpful tips:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier cake.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly. This helps avoid dense cakes caused by packed flour.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to maintain a tender crumb; overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm accurate temperatures since oven settings can vary, affecting baking time and doneness.
Best Side Dishes for Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Adding side dishes can enhance your dining experience when serving Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake. Here are some excellent options:
- Fruit Salad
A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the cake. - Greek Yogurt Parfait
Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a creamy side that complements the lemon’s brightness. - Coconut Macaroons
Chewy macaroons provide a delightful contrast in texture while maintaining a subtle sweetness that pairs well with lemon. - Chocolate Mousse
Rich chocolate mousse adds depth to your dessert table, creating an indulgent pairing with the tartness of the lemon cake. - Almond Biscotti
Crunchy biscotti can be served alongside coffee or tea as a delightful nibble that complements the citrus notes of the cake. - Lemon Sorbet
A scoop of lemon sorbet offers a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of cake, enhancing its zesty flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, and it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for when making Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon.
- Bold measuring: Using incorrect measurements can lead to a dense or dry cake. Always use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
- Bold mixing too much: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough texture. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy cake.
- Bold skipping the zest: Not using fresh lemon zest means losing vital flavor. Make sure to include it for that bright citrus punch.
- Bold ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can affect the rise and doneness. Always preheat your oven and check with an oven thermometer if necessary.
- Bold not letting it cool: Glazing a hot cake can cause the glaze to melt away. Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding the glaze.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and fresh.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking pieces to prevent sticking.
Freezing Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with the date so you know when to use them.
Reheating Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
- Oven: Preheat to 150°C (300°F). Wrap the cake in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium for 15-20 seconds; check and add more time as needed.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid and warm for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon that might help you perfect your baking experience.
What makes Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon so special?
Paul Hollywood’s recipe brings together simplicity and flavor, creating a moist lemon cake that’s perfect for any occasion.
Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?
Yes! You can try using orange or lime juice along with their zest instead of lemon for a different citrus flavor profile.
How do I know when my cake is done baking?
The cake is ready when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it’s fully baked inside.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute whole milk with almond milk or another plant-based milk alternative, ensuring it fits your preferences.
Final Thoughts
Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon is not just delightful; it’s also versatile enough to suit various occasions from casual teatime to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize by adding poppy seeds or coconut for extra texture and flavor! Try this fabulous recipe today, and enjoy every bite of its zesty goodness!
Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Indulge in the delightful Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake, a perfect treat that elevates any occasion with its bright citrus flavor and moist texture. This easy-to-make cake requires only one bowl, making it a breeze to prepare and clean up afterward. Infused with freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, each bite offers a refreshing burst of flavor topped with a glossy lemon glaze. Ideal for afternoon teas, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack, this lemon cake is sure to be a hit among both kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 115 g unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
- 60 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 190 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 120 ml whole milk
- 120 g powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175°C. Prepare a 23 cm round cake pan with grease and parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in lemon zest and juice until well combined.
- Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix gently until just combined.
- Incorporate whole milk slowly until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- While baking, whisk powdered sugar and lemon juice for the glaze.
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack; drizzle glaze over while warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
