Description
Paul Hollywood’s Favorite One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is a classic British lemon cake that’s simple yet deeply satisfying. Made in a single bowl with everyday ingredients, this moist and tender cake boasts a bright lemon flavor balanced with a light, citrus glaze. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert carries the warmth of homemade tradition and evokes memories of cozy kitchens and shared moments.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup whole milk
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper to ensure the cake releases easily and bakes evenly.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar until pale and fluffy, building the foundation for a tender cake crumb and good rise.
- Add the Eggs One at a Time: Crack in the eggs individually, whisking well after each to bind the batter smoothly, resulting in a glossy, creamy mixture.
- Mix in the Lemon Juice and Zest: Add the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice to the batter, infusing it with a fresh citrus fragrance that brightens the flavor profile.
- Fold in the Dry Ingredients and Milk: Sprinkle in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Pour in the whole milk alternately with the dry ingredients, gently mixing until just combined with no flour streaks; avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
- Pour and Bake: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Make the Glaze: While the cake bakes, combine the powdered sugar with lemon juice to create a smooth, pourable glaze that clings yet drizzles easily.
- Glaze and Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While still warm, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, letting it soak slightly for a glossy, flavorful finish.
Notes
- This cake stores beautifully and develops even more flavor the following day as the glaze settles into the crumb.
- Ideal for tea parties, lunchbox treats, and homemade gifts.
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for better mixing and texture.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: lemon cake, Paul Hollywood, one-bowl cake, lemon dessert, British baking, citrus glaze, simple lemon cake
