Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon is a delightful treat that captures the essence of bright, zesty flavors. This easy-to-make lemon cake is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to festive gatherings. With its moist crumb and tangy glaze, it promises to evoke warmth and nostalgia with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This one-bowl recipe minimizes cleanup, making baking a breeze.
• Zesty Flavor: Fresh lemon juice and zest infuse the cake with vibrant citrus notes.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for teatime, celebrations, or as a sweet snack throughout the day.
• Moist Texture: The combination of butter and milk ensures a tender and moist crumb.
• Beautiful Presentation: A glossy lemon glaze adds an appealing shine to your cake.

Tools and Preparation

To create Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon, you’ll need a few essential tools. Being organized will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 23 cm round cake pan
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and energy when beating butter and sugar until fluffy.
• Parchment paper: It prevents the cake from sticking to the pan, ensuring easy removal after baking.

Ingredients

Paul Hollywood’s moist, zesty lemon cake brings warmth and nostalgia to teatime or gatherings with a bright glaze.

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. Grease and line a 23 cm round cake pan with parchment paper to ensure easy release.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy. This incorporates air into the mixture for a tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Beat in eggs one at a time. Mix thoroughly after each addition to create a creamy, uniform mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate Zest and Juice

Mix in freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice gently until fully blended for a vibrant citrus aroma.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add flour, baking powder, and salt directly to the bowl. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Add Milk

Gradually pour in the milk while stirring until the batter is smooth and homogenous.

Step 7: Bake

Pour batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center emerges clean.

Step 8: Prepare Glaze

While the cake bakes, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth to form a glossy glaze.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Drizzle the warm cake with lemon glaze so it soaks in beautifully.

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 enjoy this zesty treat.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve slices of the lemon cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a rich and airy complement to the tangy flavor.

With Fresh Berries

• Accompany the cake with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Their sweetness balances the tartness of the lemon beautifully.

As a Dessert Parfait

• Layer pieces of the lemon cake with yogurt and fruit in a glass for a stunning dessert parfait that is both refreshing and satisfying.

With Tea or Coffee

• Pair your slice with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The warmth of these beverages enhances the citrus notes of the cake.

In Mini Portions

• Cut the cake into bite-sized mini portions for easy serving at parties. These little treats are perfect for sharing!

How to Perfect Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

To achieve perfection with your One-Bowl Lemon cake, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh lemons and quality butter for the best flavor and texture.
• Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to ensure the right consistency in your batter.
• Avoid Overmixing: Stir just until ingredients are combined; overmixing can result in a dense cake.
• Let It Cool: Allow the cake to cool properly before glazing, so the glaze adheres well without sliding off.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.

Best Side Dishes for Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

Pairing side dishes with Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon can create a well-rounded meal or snack. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and color that complements the lemony flavors beautifully.

2. Greek Yogurt with Honey
   Creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey provides a rich contrast to the bright zestiness of the cake.

3. Lemon Sorbet
   A refreshing lemon sorbet can enhance your dessert experience, keeping it light and citrusy.

4. Mint Tea
   This soothing herbal drink pairs perfectly with lemon flavors, adding an aromatic twist.

5. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy almond biscotti offer a delightful textural contrast when served alongside slices of moist lemon cake.

6. Coconut Macaroons
   Sweet coconut macaroons bring an exotic touch that harmonizes well with citrus desserts.

7. Chia Seed Pudding
   Light and nutritious chia seed pudding can be flavored with lemon zest, tying in nicely with your main dessert.

8. Lemonade Spritzer
   A visually appealing lemonade spritzer makes for an excellent beverage pairing, enhancing the overall citrus theme!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and there are several common pitfalls to watch out for when making Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cake. Always allow these ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: This can create a tough texture instead of a light crumb. Mix until just combined for the best results.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much flour or sugar can throw off your recipe. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring the cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can result in a crumbly disaster. Let it cool properly before slicing.
• Forgetting to preheat the oven: Baking in an unheated oven affects the rise and texture. Preheat your oven well in advance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to avoid sticking.

Freezing Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries related to Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon that might help enhance your baking experience.

What makes Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon so special?

The simplicity of the one-bowl method means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, making it perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize this lemon cake?

Absolutely! You can add poppy seeds, blueberries, or even swap lemon zest for orange zest for a different citrus flavor.

How do I achieve a moist crumb?

Ensure you don’t overmix your batter and use fresh ingredients. The balance between wet and dry components is key to moisture.

What if I don’t have whole milk?

You can substitute with any milk of choice, such as almond or oat milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened for best results.

How long does this cake last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon stays fresh for up to three days at room temperature or longer if refrigerated!

Final Thoughts

Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon is not just a cake; it’s a delightful treat that brings joy to any gathering. Its moist texture and zesty flavor make it versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite additions or glazes—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious dessert!