Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake is the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive gathering. This easy-to-follow recipe combines moist, zesty flavors with minimal cleanup. The one-bowl method keeps things simple while delivering a delightful cake that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just one bowl needed, you can whip up this cake in no time, making it ideal for last-minute baking.
• Zesty Flavor: The fresh lemon juice and zest provide a bright, tangy flavor that elevates the cake to something special.
• Light and Moist Texture: The combination of butter and milk ensures a tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, or dress it up with whipped cream or fresh berries for an elegant dessert.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This cake shines at teatime, birthday parties, or even as a sweet ending to a dinner gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making the Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake, gather the necessary tools to streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cake pan (23 cm round)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to mix all ingredients in one place without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures all ingredients are well combined, especially when incorporating air into the butter and sugar mixture.
• Rubber spatula: Helps in scraping down the sides of the bowl, ensuring no ingredient is left unblended.

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. Prepare a 23 cm round cake pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy. This will help incorporate air into your batter for a lighter texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs

Add the two large eggs one at a time:
1. Mix thoroughly after each addition until you have a creamy mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Zest and Juice

Next, mix in:
1. The freshly grated lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir gently until fully blended to enhance that vibrant citrus aroma.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add directly into the mixing bowl:
1. The all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to maintain moisture in your cake.

Step 6: Add Milk

Gradually pour in:
1. The whole milk while stirring until you achieve a smooth batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan:
1. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for about 30–35 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth to create your glossy glaze.

Step 9: Cool and Drizzle

Once baked:
1. Let the cake cool in its pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Transfer it to a wire rack before drizzling the warm glaze over it, allowing some of it to soak into the cake for extra flavor.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake!

How to Serve Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

This delightful lemon cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a celebratory gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with this zesty treat.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the lemon cake alongside a mix of fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries. Their natural sweetness complements the tartness of the cake beautifully.

Accompany with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of each slice. This light, airy topping balances the dense cake and adds a luxurious touch.

Enjoy with Tea or Coffee

• Pair the cake with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee. The bright flavors of lemon pair wonderfully with both hot beverages, making it an ideal choice for afternoon tea.

Top with Ice Cream

• For a decadent dessert option, serve warm slices of lemon cake topped with vanilla or coconut ice cream. The cold creaminess contrasts nicely with the warm cake.

Garnish with Mint Leaves

• Add a few fresh mint leaves on top for a pop of color and an aromatic twist that elevates the presentation and flavor.

How to Perfect Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

Creating the perfect Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out moist and delicious every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air better for a lighter texture.

• Measure accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements of flour and sugar. Accurate measurements can make all the difference in achieving the right consistency.

• Don’t overmix: When combining dry ingredients into wet ones, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake instead of a tender crumb.

• Check for doneness: Use a skewer to test if your cake is done baking. It should come out clean from the center when fully cooked; this prevents undercooked or overcooked results.

Best Side Dishes for Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

To complement your Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon, consider these delightful side dishes that enhance its flavors and provide variety to your meal.

1. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with thinly sliced cucumbers dressed in vinegar and herbs. Its crisp texture balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Herbed Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa tossed with fresh herbs like parsley and chives offers a nutritious side that pairs well without overpowering the lemon flavor.

3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth and earthiness to your meal.

4. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a creamy yet tangy side that echoes the citrus notes in the cake.

5. Chilled Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides brightness and sweetness that complements the tartness of the lemon.

6. Savory Scones: Lightly flavored scones made with cheese or herbs offer an interesting contrast when served alongside sweet lemon cake.

7. Spiced Nuts: A bowl of lightly spiced mixed nuts adds crunch and complexity that balances out dessert offerings beautifully.

8. Lemon Sorbet: For an extra citrus hit, serve lemon sorbet as a palate cleanser between courses or as an accompaniment to your slice of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, but knowing common mistakes can help you achieve the perfect Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake.

• Not measuring accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. This ensures your ingredients are balanced, leading to a better texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow the cake to cool before adding glaze. This prevents it from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
• Using stale ingredients: Check the expiration dates on baking powder and flour. Fresh ingredients yield the best results in flavor and rise.
• Ignoring oven temperature accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven heats accurately. This helps prevent undercooking or overbaking your cake.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
• Keep away from strong-smelling foods that could affect its taste.

Freezing Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for best texture.

Reheating Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon

• Oven: Preheat to 150°C, place the cake wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes to warm through.
• Microwave: Heat a slice for 10-15 seconds at a time until warmed, being careful not to dry it out.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon?

Yes! You can substitute lime or orange juice and zest for different flavors while keeping the recipe’s structure intact.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s designed for baking.

What can I serve with Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon?

This lemon cake pairs beautifully with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of dairy-free ice cream.

Why is my lemon cake not rising properly?

Ensure your baking powder is fresh and that you’re mixing correctly. Overmixing can lead to dense cakes that don’t rise well.

How should I store leftover glaze?

Store any leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Re-whisk before use as it may thicken over time.

Final Thoughts

Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its moist crumb and zesty flavor make it perfect for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with different glazes or toppings like berries or coconut flakes. Try this delightful recipe today!