Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon is the perfect dessert for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. This delightful lemon cake features a moist crumb and a tangy glaze that will brighten up your day. With just one bowl needed for preparation, it’s an easy baking project that anyone can tackle. The vibrant flavors of fresh lemon zest and juice make this cake a standout treat that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy preparation: This recipe only requires one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
- Zesty flavor: The combination of lemon juice and zest infuses the cake with vibrant citrus notes.
- Moist texture: The addition of milk ensures a tender, moist crumb that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile serving options: Perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet finish to any meal, this cake fits any occasion.
- Quick baking time: With just 30-35 minutes in the oven, you can enjoy this treat in no time.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials you’ll need to create Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cake pan (23 cm round)
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for easy combining of all ingredients without spilling.
- Rubber spatula: This helps scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.
- Cake pan: Using the correct size guarantees even baking and perfect shaping of your cake.
Ingredients
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 release after baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture for a tender crumb.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This creates a creamy, uniform mixture essential for texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Zest and Juice
Mix in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice gently until fully blended. The aroma will be incredibly vibrant.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
Add flour, baking powder, and salt directly to the bowl. Stir gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
Step 6: Pour in Milk
Gradually pour in the milk while stirring until you achieve a smooth batter that is homogenous.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While your cake bakes, whisk together powdered sugar with lemon juice until smooth to form a glossy glaze.
Step 9: Cool and Drizzle
Let the cake cool in its pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Drizzle the warm lemon glaze over it, allowing it to soak in beautifully.
How to Serve Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Serving Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake can elevate any gathering or tea time. This moist lemon cake pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its zesty flavor.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve the cake alongside a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a vibrant, fruity contrast.
With Whipped Cream
- A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the cake’s tanginess perfectly.
With Ice Cream
- Pairing the lemon cake with vanilla or lemon sorbet creates a refreshing dessert experience for those warm days.
As a Layered Cake
- Slice the One-Bowl Lemon cake horizontally and fill it with lemon curd or cream cheese frosting for an impressive layered treat.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy the cake with a cup of your favorite tea or coffee, making it an ideal choice for afternoon gatherings.
How to Perfect Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
To achieve the best results with your Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements of flour and sugar to avoid dense cakes.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients until just mixed to maintain a light and fluffy crumb structure.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to prevent breaking and ensure proper texture.
- Glaze While Warm: Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake so it seeps in, enhancing flavor and moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
Enhancing your meal with sides can make it more complete. Here are some delightful side dishes to serve alongside Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon cake.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a healthy option that complements the citrus flavor.
- Citrus Salad: A vibrant salad made of mixed greens topped with orange slices and a light vinaigrette pairs well with the tangy notes of the cake.
- Lemonade: Refreshing homemade lemonade enhances the lemon theme and provides thirst-quenching relief on warm days.
- Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which create a rich contrast against the bright lemon flavor.
- Scones with Clotted Cream: Traditional scones served with clotted cream add a British touch that complements this lovely dessert.
- Fruit Tart: A light fruit tart can be a great addition, bringing more sweetness while still being refreshing after the lemon cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially with a recipe as delightful as Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir gently until just combined to maintain that light, moist crumb.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the batter’s texture. Always let them sit at room temperature before starting.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale for precise quantities, especially for flour and sugar.
- Skipping the lemon zest: The zest adds essential flavor and aroma. Don’t skip it; use fresh lemons for the best taste.
- Opening the oven door too soon: This can cause your cake to sink. Wait until at least two-thirds of the baking time is complete before checking on it.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container to keep the moisture in.
- The cake can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
- Oven: Preheat to 150°C, wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 10–15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for 10-15 seconds on medium power; be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a covered pan over low heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon so special?
Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon is special because it’s easy to make and delivers a burst of citrus flavor with every bite, perfect for any occasion.
Can I substitute other flavors instead of lemon?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on lemon, you can try other citrus fruits like orange or lime for a different twist.
How do I ensure my Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon does not stick to the pan?
Be sure to grease and line your baking pan properly with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
This usually happens due to underbaking or too much mixing. Ensure you bake it fully and mix just until combined for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon cake is a delightful treat that combines simplicity with vibrant flavors. Its moist crumb and zesty glaze make it perfect for teatime or gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding poppy seeds or even experimenting with different glazes. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Paul Hollywood One-Bowl Lemon
- Total Time: 32 minute
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the bright and refreshing flavors of Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon Cake, an effortless dessert that delights at any gathering. This easy-to-make lemon cake boasts a moist crumb enriched with fresh lemon zest and juice, topped with a tangy glaze that adds a perfect finishing touch.
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 oven to 175°C and prepare a 23 cm round cake pan with grease and parchment.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in lemon zest and juice until combined.
- Add flour, baking powder, and salt directly into the bowl; stir gently.
- Gradually mix in milk until smooth.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes.
- While baking, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice for glaze.
- Cool cake in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack; drizzle warm glaze over.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 235
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Use fresh lemons for optimal flavor impact. Try adding poppy seeds or different citrus variations for a unique twist.

