There’s something so delightful about a cake that brings sunshine to your plate, and that’s exactly what the One-Bowl Lemon cake from Paul Hollywood offers. This simple yet scrumptious recipe shines with bright lemon flavor, perfect for tea time or as a sweet finish to any meal. This cake is a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s served on a special occasion or just as a mid-week treat.
Gather Your One-Bowl Lemon Ingredients
To create this zesty cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
- 115 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated lemon zest
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 190 g (1 ½ cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) whole milk
- 120 g (1 cup) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Step-by-Step One-Bowl Lemon Cake Recipe
Now, let’s get started on making this lemony delight! Follow these simple steps:
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Preheat your oven: Set it to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line a 23 cm (9-inch) round cake pan with parchment paper for easy release after baking.
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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 incorporates air, ensuring a tender crumb in your cake.
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Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps create a creamy and uniform mixture.
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Stir in the lemon zest and juice: Add the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice to the bowl. Gently stir until it’s fully blended, filling your kitchen with a lovely citrus aroma.
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Mix in the dry ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt directly into the bowl. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
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Incorporate the milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk, stirring until the batter is smooth and properly mixed.
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Bake your cake: Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top. Place it in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Prepare the lemon glaze: While the cake is baking, whisk the powdered sugar with the lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth. This will create a glossy glaze to drizzle over your cake.
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Cool and glaze the cake: After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack. Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in for added flavor.
How to Serve One-Bowl Lemon Cake
This cake is as versatile as it is delicious! Here are a few ideas on how to serve it:
- Simple Slices: Cut the cake into wedges and serve it on a beautiful plate, showcasing the lovely glaze and texture.
- With Whipped Cream: For an extra indulgent touch, serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
- Accompanied by Fresh Berries: Pair the cake with seasonal berries like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
- At Afternoon Tea: This cake is perfect for a cozy afternoon tea, served alongside your favorite cup of tea or coffee.
Helpful Tricks for One-Bowl Lemon Cake
Here are some tips to enhance your baking experience:
- Use fresh lemons: For the best flavor, always use freshly grated lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The taste is unmatched!
- Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can make your cake dense. Stir until just combined to keep that light and fluffy texture.
- Add blueberries or poppy seeds: Want to switch it up? Try adding fresh blueberries or poppy seeds into the batter for a twist on the classic flavor.
One-Bowl Lemon Cake FAQs
Q: Can I use unsweetened applesauce instead of butter?
A: Yes, you can substitute unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option, although it will change the texture slightly.
Q: How do I store leftover cake?
A: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
This One-Bowl Lemon cake is a must-try for fans of zesty treats! With its simple preparation and refreshing flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipes. Give it a go and enjoy the delightful tastes of lemony goodness!