Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe moment I opened the door to my kitchen that sunny afternoon, the fresh scent of lemons whisked me away to a breezy orchard, bursting with color and life. This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is my homage to those vibrant days—it’s incredibly easy to whip up and perfect for any lemon lover. Imagine a cake that combines simplicity with a refreshing zing, making it an instant hit at any gathering or just when you need a pick-me-up. With just one bowl and minimal clean-up, you’ll spend more time enjoying its moist, tender crumb and zesty glaze than slaving away at the counter. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this delightful dessert adds a cheerful touch to any occasion. Are you ready to brighten your day with a splash of citrus sweetness? Why is This Cake a Must-Try? Simplicity, that’s the beauty of this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert! No complicated steps or excessive mess—just mix, bake, and enjoy. Fresh flavors come alive from juicy lemons and a sweet, tangy glaze that elevates every slice. Quick to make, you’ll have this delightful cake ready in no time, ideal for unexpected guests or an afternoon treat. Versatile serving options mean it pairs beautifully with tea, ice cream, or even on its own. Trust me, once you taste this cake, it’ll quickly become a go-to for all your lemon cravings! One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Ingredients For the Cake • Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; the backbone of your cake’s flavor. • Unsalted Butter – Contributes to moisture and richness; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming. • Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds richness; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation. • Freshly Grated Lemon Zest – Adds intense citrus flavor and aroma; always opt for fresh zest to maximize flavor. • Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice – Provides acidity to balance sweetness and enhances the flavor profile. • All-Purpose Flour – Creates the cake structure; you can substitute this with a gluten-free flour blend for a great alternative. • Baking Powder – This leavening agent helps the cake rise; be sure it’s fresh for optimal results. • Salt – Enhances the flavors of the cake, bringing everything together. • Whole Milk – Provides moisture and tenderness; swap it out for plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. For the Glaze • Powdered Sugar – Essential for creating a smooth glaze; elevate your dessert with a well-made drizzle. • Additional Lemon Juice (for glaze) – Enhances the glaze’s flavor and adds a lovely tang to your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Step 1: Preheat and Grease Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9-inch round cake pan and grease it with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert later. This step will only take a few moments but is vital for a perfect bake. Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and softened butter. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. You’ll see the color change to a pale yellow, signaling that the butter is well-creamed and ready for the next steps. Step 3: Add the Eggs Crack the large eggs into the bowl, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Continue mixing until the eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture appears smooth and creamy. This should take another 2-3 minutes, resulting in a rich and unified batter base for your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert. Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Zest and Juice Next, stir in the freshly grated lemon zest and lemon juice. Use a spatula to mix until all the lemony goodness is well-blended into the batter. The aroma will brighten up your kitchen, and you’ll want to savor this fragrant mix as it brings a zesty freshness to your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert. Step 5: Whisk Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures even distribution of the leavening agent. This step is crucial because it prevents clumping when you combine them with the wet mixture for your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert. Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until the batter is smooth and lump-free, about 2-3 minutes. The batter should be thick yet pourable, creating the perfect base for your dessert. Step 7: Pour and Smooth Now, pour the prepared batter into the greased cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly, ensuring every corner is filled. You want it to be as level as possible for uniform baking. This step is crucial as it affects how evenly your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert rises in the oven. Step 8: Bake the Cake Place the cake pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is finished. The top should be lightly golden and spring back when pressed gently. Step 9: Make the Glaze While the cake bakes and fills your kitchen with lemony aromas, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and additional lemon juice in a medium bowl. Mix until it’s completely smooth and reaches a drizzle-able consistency. Set this zesty glaze aside until the cake cools down. Step 10: Cool and Glaze Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow the cake to cool completely before drizzling it with the prepared glaze. As the glaze sets, it will create a lovely, tangy finish on your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert, enhancing its flavor. Step 11: Serve and Enjoy After glazing, let it sit for a few minutes for the glaze to set. Slice the cake into wedges to serve. The One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is now ready to brighten up your day! Enjoy this refreshing treat on its own or alongside a scoop of your favorite ice cream. What to Serve with Paul Hollywood’s One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Brighten your table with complementary dishes that accentuate the zesty joy of this delightful cake. Whipped Cream: A dollop of rich whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the cake’s tangy flavor perfectly. Fresh Berries: Mixed berries like strawberries and blueberries lend a fresh sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the lemon zest. The vibrant colors add an appealing touch to your dessert table. Earl Grey Tea: The subtle floral notes of Earl Grey enhance the citrus brightness, making each sip a cozy companion to your cake. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy chill of vanilla ice cream melts into the warmth of the cake, creating a delightful, indulgent flavor fusion that you won’t forget. Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing and palate-cleansing, sparkling water accented with a slice of lemon elevates the lemony goodness while keeping things light. Poppy Seed Muffins: Pair these soft muffins alongside for an added texture experience. The poppy seeds complement the cake’s flavors and provide a delightful visual contrast. Lemonade Spritzer: A light mix of lemonade and sparkling water creates a refreshing drink that enhances the citrusy notes of the one-bowl lemon dessert while quenching thirst. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits delivers freshness and a delightful crunch, balancing the cake’s softness with lovely textures. Feel free to mix and match these pairings to create your perfect dessert spread! Make Ahead Options This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while still creating a delicious treat! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring freshness without sacrificing taste. To do this, simply mix everything together, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, pour the batter into your greased pan and bake as instructed. The cake will come out just as moist and flavorful, allowing you to enjoy an elegant dessert with minimal effort. You can also make the glaze ahead of time; just store it in the fridge and drizzle it over the warm cake before serving for a delightful finishing touch. Expert Tips for One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Use Fresh Lemons: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh lemons. The zest and juice from fresh lemons elevate your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert significantly. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and contributes to a fluffier cake texture. Check Baking Powder Freshness: Before starting, check the expiration date on your baking powder. Using fresh baking powder is crucial for the cake’s rise and texture. Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when incorporating dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, airy One-Bowl Lemon Dessert. Customization Options: Feel free to experiment! Consider adding poppy seeds for texture and flavor or incorporating a teaspoon of lemon extract for an extra citrus punch. How to Store and Freeze One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain its moistness and flavor. Fridge: If you need it to last longer, refrigerate the One-Bowl Lemon Dessert for up to a week. Make sure it’s covered to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors. Freezer: Wrap slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy your frozen cake, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before serving. You can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for a cozy treat. One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Customization Ideas Feel free to make this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert your own with these fun and engaging variations! Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can indulge in the zesty joy without worry! Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk for a plant-based option like almond or coconut milk to create a delightful treat for your dairy-sensitive friends. Add Poppy Seeds: By incorporating poppy seeds into the batter, you’ll add a wonderful crunch and a lovely visual appeal to your cake. It’s a simple twist that brings a whole new level of flavor! Intensify Citrus: Include a teaspoon of lemon extract to boost the citrus intensity for die-hard lemon fans. Trust me, you’ll be basking in this extra sunshine! Berry Bliss: Serve slices with a side of fresh berries or even a dollop of whipped cream for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the tangy glaze. Zesty Toppings: Garnish with candied lemon slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance that will have your guests raving about presentation. Citrus Combo: Mix in a bit of grated orange zest along with the lemon for a delicious citrus medley that dances on your taste buds. By exploring these variations, you’ll keep the magic of this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert alive, ensuring it remains a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire. If you’re in the mood for more lively desserts, try Lemon Sugar Cookies or savor the deliciousness of Cheesecake Brownies Dessert for a delightful change! One-Bowl Lemon Dessert Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right lemons for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting lemons, look for ones that are firm, bright yellow, and slightly heavy for their size. Avoid any that have dark spots or are pale; these are signs they may be overripe or lack juiciness. Fresh, juicy lemons will give your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert the vibrant flavor it deserves! What is the best way to store leftover One-Bowl Lemon Dessert? Very! Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moistness. If you want to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge where it can last up to a week. Just remember to keep it covered to avoid any fridge odors. Can I freeze the One-Bowl Lemon Dessert? How? Of course! Freezing is a great way to preserve your cake. First, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air can get in. Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container to avoid freezer burn, and it will last for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving. What should I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly? Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert does not rise as expected, check the freshness of your baking powder; old baking powder can result in a flat cake. Ensure you’re also not overmixing the batter, as this can cause it to become dense rather than light and airy. Gently folding in your dry ingredients is key to a successful rise. Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe? Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, it’s worth noting that this recipe contains gluten and dairy. You can easily make it dairy-free by substituting whole milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk. If gluten is a concern, use a gluten-free flour blend to achieve a delightful result without compromising on taste. Can I add other flavors or ingredients to the One-Bowl Lemon Dessert? Very! Feel free to get creative by incorporating poppy seeds for a delightful crunch or adding a teaspoon of lemon extract to enhance the citrus flavor. You could also serve it with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate your dessert experience! One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: Brighten Your Day with Citrus Joy This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert combines simplicity and refreshing lemon flavor, making it a must-try for any lemon lover. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake1 cup Granulated Sugar Provides sweetness and structure; the backbone of your cake's flavor.1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Contributes to moisture and richness; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.2 large Eggs Binds ingredients and adds richness; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.1 tablespoon Freshly Grated Lemon Zest Adds intense citrus flavor and aroma; always opt for fresh zest to maximize flavor.1/4 cup Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice Provides acidity to balance sweetness and enhances the flavor profile.1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour Creates the cake structure; you can substitute this with a gluten-free flour blend for a great alternative.1 teaspoon Baking Powder This leavening agent helps the cake rise; be sure it’s fresh for optimal results.1/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances the flavors of the cake, bringing everything together.1/2 cup Whole Milk Provides moisture and tenderness; swap it out for plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.For the Glaze1 cup Powdered Sugar Essential for creating a smooth glaze; elevate your dessert with a well-made drizzle.2 tablespoons Additional Lemon Juice Enhances the glaze’s flavor and adds a lovely tang to your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert. Equipment 9-inch Round Cake Panmixing bowlElectric mixer Method Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Bowl Lemon DessertPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.Cream together the granulated sugar and softened butter with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice until well-blended.In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the whole milk until smooth and lump-free.Pour the batter into the greased cake pan and smooth the top evenly.Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and additional lemon juice until smooth.Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled, drizzle with glaze.Slice and enjoy your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert! Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.5mg NotesFor the best flavor, always opt for fresh lemons. Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
