There are moments when you just need a simple and comforting dessert. This lemon delight fits the bill perfectly, whether it’s a quiet evening at home or a gathering with friends. Its easy preparation invites you to whip it up on a whim, allowing for spontaneous enjoyment. The simplicity in its method aligns beautifully with the refreshing flavor it delivers, making it a delightful finish to any meal. Let’s dive into creating this easy lemon dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Delight
This one-bowl lemon dessert delight is a breeze to make, highlighting ease and reliability in each step. The balance of tart lemon and sweet elements creates a comforting flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying. With its practical value, this recipe can fit seamlessly into your everyday baking repertoire, offering a little bite of sunshine when you need it most.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adds sweetness)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (provides moisture and richness)
- 2 large eggs (provides structure and stability)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (enhances lemon flavor)
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (adds tang and moisture)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (gives structure)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (helps with leavening)
- ½ teaspoon salt (balances sweetness)
- ½ cup whole milk (adds moisture and richness)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for sweetness and a smooth texture)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (enhances flavor in the glaze)
How to Make Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Delight
Step 1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and softened unsalted butter. Using a whisk or a sturdy fork, mix these together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take a few minutes. You’ll notice it become smoother and a bit paler in color, indicating it’s properly creamed.
Step 2. With the creamed mixture ready, crack in the two large eggs one at a time, ensuring to whisk well between each addition. This step is crucial as it helps to incorporate the eggs evenly into the batter. The mixture should become more homogenous and slightly thickened.
Step 3. Next, stir in the lemon zest and the freshly squeezed lemon juice into the bowl. This addition brings a refreshing burst of flavor to the mix. Make sure to blend it in thoroughly, as the zest will infuse the batter with citrus notes, making the end result bright and fragrant.
Step 4. After incorporating the lemon elements, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the dry ingredients into the moist mixture. Be careful not to overmix; stop when you see no more flour streaks. The batter will be thick yet smooth.
Step 5. To achieve the desired consistency, pour in the whole milk gradually. Mix until the batter is well combined and has a pourable consistency. You’re looking for a silky texture that flows easily but isn’t runny. This is a key step for ensuring the right texture in your final bake.
Step 6. Preheat your oven to the desired temperature. While it heats, pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures an even rise and browning during baking. Look for a level surface, as this will contribute to the uniform texture throughout the dessert.
Step 7. Once the oven is ready, place your baking dish inside. Bake until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overbaking, as no one wants a dry bite when they could have a moist one instead.
Step 8. While your dessert is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the powdered sugar with the additional lemon juice in a small bowl. Stir until it reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Once baked, you’ll drizzle this over the warm dessert, enhancing its flavor with a sweet tangy finish.
Step 9. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly in the baking dish. After about 10 minutes, transfer it to a wire rack. This cooling process is important to set the texture before adding the glaze.
Step 10. Finally, drizzle the prepared lemon glaze over the warm dessert. Make sure to coat it evenly, allowing some to drip down the sides. This not only adds sweetness but also gives it a charming finish. The combination of warm dessert and cool glaze creates a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon dessert is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. It makes a light and refreshing breakfast option, served with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also slice it up for snacks throughout the day or present it as a sweet treat at family meals. If you have any leftovers, they store nicely, maintaining their appeal even after a day or two. This dessert fits well into any time of your day, bringing a little brightness whenever you choose to enjoy it.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the best texture in the batter.
- Use fresh lemons for zest and juice as this will enhance the flavor significantly.
- When combining the dry ingredients, sift them to avoid lumps and ensure even mixing.
- Avoid overmixing once you add the flour, as this can make the cake dense.
- Allow the dessert to cool before glazing for better adherence and flavor infusion.
- Experiment with the glaze to suit your taste, adjusting the amount of lemon juice for more or less tartness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold butter: Cold butter will not incorporate well and can lead to a dense cake. Always soften your butter to room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Overmixing the batter: This can create a tough texture instead of a light and airy dessert. Mix just until the flour is combined, then stop.
- Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot can bake the outside too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked. Keep an eye on the baking time and temperature for even results.
- Not checking the doneness: Always use a toothpick to test the center for readiness. Relying solely on baking time can lead to overbaking or underbaking.
- Skipping the zest or lemon juice: Omitting these ingredients will reduce the refreshing flavor this dessert is known for. Both add essential brightness.
- Cooling on the counter too long before glazing: Glazing while the dessert is still warm allows for better absorption of flavor. Don’t let it cool completely before adding the glaze.
Variations & Substitutions
For a different take on this lemon dessert, consider adding a handful of blueberries or raspberries to the batter for a fruit twist. Alternatively, a dash of poppy seeds can add a delightful texture and flavor contrast. If you prefer a more subtle lemon note, you might want to reduce the amount of lemon juice slightly or balance it with additional milk.
Storage & Reheating
Store the lemon dessert at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it where it can stay fresh for up to one week. To enjoy leftovers, simply enter a microwave for brief intervals to warm it slightly without drying it out. Avoid freezing, as frost can affect the delicate texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a few hours ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavours to meld together nicely before baking.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Once baked, the dessert can last about a week in the refrigerator if properly covered. The flavors may continue to develop, making it an enjoyable treat even after a few days.
Can I freeze this recipe?
It’s best not to freeze this particular dessert, as the texture may be compromised upon thawing. Enjoy it fresh or store it in the fridge to maintain its best qualities.
What can I substitute for one ingredient?
If you find yourself without granulated sugar, you can use an equivalent amount of brown sugar for a hint of molasses flavor and moisture. This change can give a slightly different sweetness profile to the dessert.
Why didn’t my recipe turn out as expected?
Common issues may stem from ingredient measurements, oven temperature fluctuations, or mixing methods. Always double-check your measurements and ensure you’re using fresh ingredients for reliable results.
Final Thoughts
Making Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Delight is a rewarding experience that combines uncomplicated steps with delightful taste. Its harmonious blend of flavors offers a comforting finish that can brighten any day. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome, knowing that this simple recipe can bring small moments of joy into everyday life.
One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Delight
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened provides moisture and richness
- 2 large eggs provides structure and stability
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest enhances lemon flavor
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice adds tang and moisture
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour gives structure
- 1 teaspoon baking powder helps with leavening
- ½ teaspoon salt balances sweetness
- ½ cup whole milk adds moisture and richness
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar for sweetness and a smooth texture
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice enhances flavor in the glaze
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and softened unsalted butter. Mix until light and fluffy.
- Crack in the two large eggs one at a time, whisking well between each addition until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice until blended thoroughly.
- Sift in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, folding gently until no more flour streaks remain.
- Pour in the whole milk gradually and mix until the batter has a silky texture.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to the desired temperature. Pour the batter into a prepared baking dish.
- Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While baking, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with the additional lemon juice until smooth.
- Once baked, cool the dessert for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Drizzle the lemon glaze over the warm dessert evenly.