Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake is a delightful and easy dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. Perfect for teatime, gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat at home, this cake is not only moist and zesty but also simple to prepare. The one-bowl method makes clean-up a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying the delicious results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just one bowl required, this recipe minimizes mess and simplifies the baking process.
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of fresh lemon juice and zest creates a vibrant flavor that shines through in every bite.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family gathering or an elegant tea party, this cake fits right in.
- Glazed to Perfection: The glossy lemon glaze adds an irresistible finish, making it visually appealing as well as delicious.
- Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: With its light texture and refreshing taste, this cake is sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin making Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything prepared will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
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 is essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
- Whisk or Electric Mixer: This tool helps achieve a fluffy batter by incorporating air into the mixture.
- Parchment Paper: Lining your cake pan with parchment ensures easy release of the cake 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 for easy removal later.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. This incorporates air into the mixture for a tender crumb.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is mixed thoroughly before adding the next. This helps create a creamy texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Zest and Juice
Mix in the freshly grated lemon zest along with the lemon juice. Stir gently until fully combined for an aromatic citrus flavor.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add flour, baking powder, and salt directly into the bowl. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to ensure a light texture.
Step 6: Mix in Milk
Gradually pour in the milk while stirring until you achieve a smooth batter that is uniform in consistency.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 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 lemon juice until smooth to create your glossy glaze.
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 your prepared glaze over the warm cake so it can soak in beautifully.
Enjoy serving this delightful Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake at your next gathering!
How to Serve Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Serving Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake is a delightful experience, perfect for any occasion. The moist cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its zesty flavor.
Pair with Fresh Berries
- Serve slices of the lemon cake with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
Enjoy with Whipped Cream
- A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the cake’s citrus notes.
Add a Scoop of Sorbet
- Pairing the cake with lemon or berry sorbet can create a refreshing dessert duo that’s both light and flavorful.
Serve with Tea or Coffee
- This lemon cake makes an excellent companion to your favorite tea or coffee, creating a comforting afternoon treat.
How to Perfect Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
To ensure the best results with your One-Bowl Lemon cake, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your baking game.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your butter, eggs, and milk to room temperature helps create an even batter for better texture.
- Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off; this prevents dense cakes caused by too much flour.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined when adding dry ingredients to keep the crumb tender and light.
- Check Doneness Early: Ovens vary, so start checking your cake around 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool fully on a wire rack before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting away.
Best Side Dishes for Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Enhance your dessert experience by serving Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake alongside these delicious side dishes. They provide complementary flavors and textures that make each bite enjoyable.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like melons, pineapple, and grapes offers a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Lemon Curd Tart: The tartness of lemon curd on a buttery crust pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.
- Chia Pudding: A creamy chia pudding made with coconut milk adds a nutritious touch while balancing flavors.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy cookies bring a touch of tropical sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the zesty lemon.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with honey and granola provides a creamy crunch that complements the moist cake.
- Ice Cream Sundae: Top vanilla ice cream with lemon zest and fresh berries for an indulgent dessert experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially when making Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Boldly skip measuring ingredients – Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale and measuring cups to ensure each ingredient is precise.
- Boldly overlook room temperature – Cold ingredients can affect the batter’s texture. Always use eggs and butter at room temperature for a better mix.
- Boldly ignore mixing technique – Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Boldly rush cooling time – Let the cake cool before glazing. This gives the glaze a chance to soak in properly for enhanced flavor.
- Boldly forget oven calibration – An uncalibrated oven can lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator, keeping it moist and fresh.
Freezing Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
- Oven – Preheat to 150°C, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop – Use a non-stick pan over low heat; cover and warm each side for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon special?
This recipe is unique due to its simplicity and vibrant lemon flavor, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with limes or oranges for different flavor profiles while maintaining the same method.
How do I know when my cake is fully baked?
Insert a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done baking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Final Thoughts
Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake offers a delightful mix of zestiness and moisture, making it an excellent choice for any gathering. Its simple preparation allows for easy customization—consider adding poppy seeds or blueberries to enhance your creation. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its refreshing taste!
Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon Cake
Indulge in the refreshing taste of Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake, a delightful dessert that is both easy to prepare and bursting with citrus flavor. This moist cake, topped with a glossy lemon glaze, is ideal for any occasion—from afternoon tea to family gatherings. The one-bowl method simplifies the baking process, allowing you to focus on savoring every delicious bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings with its zesty charm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 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 for glaze
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice for glaze
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175°C and grease a 23 cm round cake pan lined with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Beat in each egg one at a time until fully incorporated.
- Mix in lemon zest and juice for added flavor.
- Add flour, baking powder, and salt; stir gently until combined.
- Gradually mix in milk until you have a smooth batter.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
- For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth.
- Allow the cake to cool before drizzling with glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 85g)
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg




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