This delightfully simple yet elegant one-bowl lemon dessert is famously acclaimed by Paul Hollywood as his favorite cake of all time. Offering a harmonious blend of bright citrus flavor and a moist, tender crumb, it’s the kind of bake that evokes sunny afternoons and cozy teatime chats. Made entirely in a single bowl and finished with a glistening lemon glaze, this cake brings instant warmth and joy—perfect for celebrations or a quiet moment of self-care. It proves that baking doesn’t need to be complicated to be truly beloved.
For the cake:
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 tbsp freshly grated lemon zest
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
½ cup whole milk
For the glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice
Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment.
In one bowl, cream together sugar and softened butter until pale and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in lemon zest and lemon juice until fragrant.
Gently fold in flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add milk until the batter is smooth and cohesive.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Meanwhile, whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to make the glaze.
Once the cake is out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in.
Calories: 240 kcal
Fat: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Protein: 4 g
Sugar: 22 g
Fiber: 1 g