Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon is the perfect dessert for any occasion, from afternoon tea to family gatherings. This delightful lemon cake boasts a moist crumb and a bright citrus glaze that will brighten your table. Easy to make in just one bowl, it captures the essence of simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal treat for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With just one bowl required, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your delicious creation without fuss.
• Zesty Flavor: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a vibrant flavor that’s sure to impress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, or pair with fresh fruits or whipped cream for added indulgence at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 23 cm round cake pan
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to blend ingredients easily without spills.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for aerating the batter, which contributes to the cake’s light texture.

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 after baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Step 3: Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Mix thoroughly after each addition to create a creamy and uniform mixture that’s well blended.

Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Flavor

Stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice gently until fully combined. This step adds a vibrant citrus aroma that enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add flour, baking powder, and salt directly into the mixing bowl. Stir gently until just combined; take care not to overmix as this could affect the cake’s texture.

Step 6: Pour in Milk

Gradually pour in the whole milk while stirring until you achieve a smooth and homogenous batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While your cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar with two tablespoons of lemon juice until smooth. This glossy glaze will add an extra layer of sweetness.

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 the warm lemon glaze over it, allowing it to soak in for maximum flavor.

How to Serve Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

This moist, zesty lemon cake is perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering, serving it with thoughtful accompaniments can elevate the experience.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a delightful tartness that complements the lemon flavor beautifully.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds creaminess and balances the citrus tang of the cake.

Accompany with Lemon Curd

• A dollop of lemon curd on top brings an extra burst of citrus and richness, enhancing each bite.

Enjoy with Tea or Coffee

• This cake pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect treat for your afternoon break.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Fresh mint leaves not only look appealing but also offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.

How to Perfect Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

To achieve the best results with your lemon cake, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Scoop flour gently into your measuring cup and level off for precise measurements, preventing a dense cake.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to maintain a light and airy texture; overmixing can result in a tough cake.

• Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking; the skewer should come out clean when inserted into the center.

• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding glaze; this helps it soak in without becoming overly soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

Adding side dishes can enhance your lemond dessert experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside your cake:

1. Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and pairs well with the zesty notes of the cake.

2. Coconut Macaroons
   These chewy treats provide a sweet contrast and complement citrus flavors nicely.

3. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy almond biscotti offer a delightful texture and pair well with coffee or tea served alongside the cake.

4. Chia Seed Pudding
   A light chia pudding can serve as a refreshing counterpart, especially when flavored with vanilla or coconut milk.

5. Yogurt Parfait
   Layers of yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit create an indulgent yet healthy side option that balances sweetness with creaminess.

6. Carrot Sticks with Hummus
   For something savory, crunchy carrot sticks dipped in hummus can provide a nice contrast to the sweet lemon cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake, it’s easy to encounter a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold mixing: Overmixing your batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Bold measuring: Not measuring ingredients accurately can ruin your cake’s consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precision.
• Bold temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect how the cake rises. Always preheat your oven properly before baking.
• Bold cooling: Letting the cake cool too long in the pan can make it soggy. Transfer it to a wire rack after 10 minutes for optimal results.
• Bold glazing: Applying glaze while the cake is too hot can make it runny. Wait until it’s warm but not hot for the best glaze absorption.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the cake has cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label the bag with the date so you know when to use it by.

Reheating Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

• Oven: Preheat to 150°C and warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds, watching closely to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake.

How do I ensure my Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake is moist?

To achieve moisture, be careful not to overbake and incorporate all wet ingredients evenly into the batter.

Can I substitute other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can replace lemon juice and zest with orange or lime for a different citrus flavor.

What makes Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon unique?

This recipe is unique because it’s easy, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers delightful flavor in every bite.

How can I customize my Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake?

You can add poppy seeds or blueberries to enhance flavor and texture, making it even more exciting!

Final Thoughts

The Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s afternoon tea or dessert after dinner. Feel free to experiment with flavors or toppings to make it your own. Enjoy baking this delightful treat!