Nothing brightens up a cozy day like the aroma of something lemony wafting through the kitchen. Today, we’re making a wonderful One-Bowl Lemon Dessert that’s delightfully simple. It’s bright, fresh, and bursting with flavor. Plus, the one-bowl aspect makes cleanup a breeze! You’ll impress your friends and family without breaking a sweat.

why make this recipe

This lemon dessert is perfect for any occasion. It’s light and zesty, making it a refreshing treat for gatherings or just a delightful pick-me-up during the week. You can dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar, or enjoy it plain with a lovely cup of tea. I love how versatile it is—whether you’re serving it at a fancy brunch or a casual afternoon snack, it fits right in. Plus, who can resist a dessert that’s made with just one bowl?

how to make One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Ingredients:

2 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup whole milk
Zest of 2 lemons
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper to make removal easy later.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar. You want them pale and slightly thickened—this should take just a minute. Then, add the oil, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Now, sift the flour, baking powder, and salt directly into your bowl. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture with a spatula or spoon. Remember, a few lumps are just fine—overmixing is a no-go.

Step 4: Bake
Pour your beautiful batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top, then pop it in the oven. Bake for 28–32 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Dust
Let your cake cool completely in the pan. Once it’s cool, lift it out and dust with powdered sugar if you fancy it. Then, cut it into squares or rectangles.

Step 6: Enjoy
Serve your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert either slightly warm or chilled. It pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. You’ll find it’s the perfect companion to your afternoon tea!

how to serve One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

This dessert shines when served with something creamy. A dollop of whipped cream or a side of fresh fruit really sets it off. If you’re feeling extra fancy, try topping it with a bit of lemon curd. It’s citrus heaven!

how to store One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

To keep your lemon dessert fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days. If you find yourself with leftovers, it’s also delicious cold right out of the fridge!

tips to make One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. The zest and juice make a big difference!
Don’t forget to sift your dry ingredients. This small step helps to keep your dessert light and fluffy.
If you’re in the mood for personalization, you can add poppy seeds for an extra touch or try some fresh berries thrown into the mix!

variation (if any)

If you want to change things up, consider turning this lemon treat into a blueberry lemon dessert! Just fold in a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries after mixing the wet and dry ingredients. You’ll get that lovely burst of blueberry goodness in every bite!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of oil?
Absolutely! You can substitute vegetable oil with canola or melted coconut oil. Some people even use olive oil for a unique twist!

How do I know if it’s done baking?
Great question! The top should be lightly golden, and the toothpick should come out clean. A little moistness is okay, but you don’t want any wet batter sticking to the toothpick.

Can I freeze this dessert?
Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s completely cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to three months. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.

One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

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