Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon is the ideal dessert for any occasion. This cake combines simplicity with a burst of fresh lemon flavor, making it a delightful treat for afternoon tea or family gatherings. With its moist texture and zesty glaze, this one-bowl lemon cake will impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This one-bowl recipe simplifies the baking process, allowing you to whip up a delicious cake without the fuss of multiple bowls and utensils.
- Bright Flavors: The use of fresh lemon juice and zest gives this cake a vibrant taste that is both refreshing and uplifting.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for teatime, celebrations, or as a simple everyday treat, this cake is suitable for any occasion.
- Moist Crumb: Thanks to the careful mixing methods and ingredients, each slice delivers a tender, moist crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Gorgeous Glaze: The glossy lemon glaze not only enhances the flavor but also adds an elegant finish to your cake.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience seamless, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will ensure that you can focus on creating your delicious lemon cake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pan (23 cm round)
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for easy incorporation of ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: A whisk helps to aerate the batter, creating a light texture in the cake.
- Cake pan: Using a properly sized cake pan ensures even baking and a perfect shape for your dessert.

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 removal after baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a tender crumb in your cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next for a creamy mixture.
Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Zest and Juice
- Mix in freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice gently until fully combined.
- This step enhances the aroma with vibrant citrus notes.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Add flour, baking powder, and salt directly into the bowl.
- Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cake light.
Step 6: Add Milk
Gradually pour in whole milk while stirring until you achieve a smooth batter with no lumps.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour batter into the prepared cake pan:
1. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Make the Glaze
While the cake bakes:
1. Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth for a glossy finish.
Step 9: Cool and Glaze
After baking:
1. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
2. Transfer it to a wire rack.
3. Drizzle warm lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to soak in for added flavor.
Now you have made Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon! Enjoy this delightful treat at your next gathering or as an everyday indulgence!
How to Serve Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Serving Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake is a delightful experience. This moist and zesty cake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments, making it suitable for any occasion.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve slices of the lemon cake topped with an assortment of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The sweetness of the berries complements the tartness of the lemon perfectly.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s crumb. You can lightly sweeten the cream with a touch of powdered sugar for extra flavor.
With Vanilla Ice Cream
- Pairing this lemon cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious balance between warm and cold, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
As Part of an Afternoon Tea Spread
- Include slices of the lemon cake in your afternoon tea selection alongside finger sandwiches and scones. Its bright flavor adds a refreshing touch to the traditional spread.
Drizzled with Extra Lemon Glaze
- For those who love an extra zing, drizzle additional lemon glaze over each slice before serving. It enhances the citrusy flavor while adding a glossy finish.
How to Perfect Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Perfecting Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake can elevate your baking skills. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding flour to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to gluten development.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lemons for zest and juice to maximize flavor. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.
- Check Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is calibrated correctly. An inaccurate temperature can lead to uneven baking.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before adding glaze; this prevents it from melting away and ensures it sets nicely on top.
Best Side Dishes for Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
When serving Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake, consider these delightful side dishes that enhance your dessert experience:
-
Fruit Salad
A light fruit salad made from seasonal fruits can balance the richness of the cake and offer freshness. -
Lemon Sorbet
A scoop of lemon sorbet provides a refreshing palate cleanser that complements the cake’s citrus notes beautifully. -
Coconut Macaroons
These chewy treats add a tropical twist and texture contrast, providing another layer of flavor next to your zesty dessert. -
Chocolate Covered Strawberries
The sweetness of chocolate-covered strawberries pairs well with lemon flavors, creating an indulgent combination. -
Herb-Infused Iced Tea
Serve chilled iced tea infused with herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing beverage that enhances the meal. -
Almond Biscotti
These crunchy cookies add texture and nutty flavors that provide a delightful contrast to the soft lemon cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking the Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the cake’s texture and flavor.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to 175°C. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking and a dense cake.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can create a tough texture. Stir gently until just combined for a light crumb.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar, as this affects the cake’s rise and moisture.
- Skipping the zest: Fresh lemon zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; instead, use a microplane grater for fine zest.
- Cooling time mishaps: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it. This helps prevent breakage.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep it away from direct sunlight to maintain moisture.
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.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
- Oven: Preheat to 150°C, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20 seconds or until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions frequently asked about the Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon recipe.
How do I ensure my Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon is moist?
To keep your lemon cake moist, avoid overbaking and ensure you use room temperature butter and eggs when mixing your batter.
Can I substitute any ingredients in Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon?
Yes! You can experiment with alternative flours or sweeteners if you’re looking for variations while maintaining similar proportions.
What can I serve with Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon?
This lemon cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream, fresh berries, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
How long does Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this cake will stay fresh for about three days at room temperature or up to three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
The Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon is not just easy to make but also brings brightness to any occasion. Its moist crumb and delightful glaze make it a perfect treat for tea time or gatherings. Feel free to customize it by adding blueberries or poppy seeds for extra flair!
Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Indulge in the refreshing delight of Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake, a perfect addition to any gathering or a charming accompaniment for afternoon tea. This moist and zesty cake is made with simple ingredients and requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. The vibrant lemon flavor shines through thanks to fresh juice and zest, while a glossy glaze adds an elegant finish. Whether you’re serving it at celebrations or enjoying it as an everyday treat, this lemon cake is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- 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
- 120 g powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C. Grease and line a 23 cm round cake pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gently mix in the lemon zest and juice until combined.
- Add flour, baking powder, and salt; stir until just combined.
- Gradually incorporate the milk until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- While baking, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice for the glaze.
- Let the cake cool before drizzling with glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (75g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg



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