There’s something so delightful about a lemon dessert, isn’t there? The bright, zesty flavor makes everything feel fresh and cheery. Plus, this One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is super easy to whip up. It’s like a little slice of sunshine on your plate. Perfect for sharing or just enjoying yourself with a warm cup of tea.

why make this recipe

This lemon dessert is perfect for beginners. You only need one bowl, which means less cleanup and more time for savoring your treat. The ingredients are simple and straightforward. And the best part? You get a lovely, light cake that’s bursting with tangy goodness. It’s ideal for those warm afternoons when you want something sweet but not too heavy. Trust me, once you have a taste, you’ll want to make it again and again!

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)

Directions:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper. Leave a little overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until they look pale and a bit thick. Add in the vegetable oil, milk, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir it all together until it’s well combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Now, let’s sift the flour, baking powder, and salt right into that same bowl. Gently fold everything together using a spatula or spoon. Just mix until the batter is smooth. A few lumps are totally fine, so don’t overdo it!

Step 4: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth the top and pop it in the oven for 28 to 32 minutes. It’s ready when the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Dust
Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan. When it’s cool, carefully lift it out using the parchment overhang. If you’re feeling fancy, dust the top with some powdered sugar before cutting it into squares or rectangles.

Step 6: Enjoy
You can serve this slightly warm or chilled. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or even a dollop of whipped cream. I love serving it during gatherings with friends or as a sweet treat after dinner. You could even enjoy it alongside some of my delicious raspberry scones for an elevated tea time.

how to serve One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

This lemon dessert shines on its own, but feel free to get creative! Consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of lemon glaze. A side of fresh berries can add a nice touch both visually and in flavor. I’ve even served it alongside my lemon blueberry pancakes for a delightful brunch spread!

how to store One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Storing this dessert is easy. Just keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, you can refrigerate it. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

tips to make One-Bowl Lemon Dessert

Be sure to zest your lemons before juicing them. It’s so much easier!
Don’t worry if the batter seems a bit lumpy after mixing. That’s perfectly fine!
Feel free to add a little more lemon juice if you love that extra tang. You can also fold in some poppy seeds for a nice crunch.
If you want to make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Consider serving it along with my delightful homemade whipped cream for a creamy finish!

variation (if any)

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add fresh blueberries or raspberries to the batter. They’ll burst with flavor as they bake and add lovely color to your dessert. You might also swap the lemon juice for orange juice for a sweet and tangy orange cake that’s just as delicious!

FAQs

Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, you can! But fresh lemon juice tends to have a brighter flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice will work in a pinch.

How can I tell when the cake is done?
You’ll know it’s done when the top is lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Can I freeze leftover lemon dessert?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to three months. Just let it thaw in the fridge before serving.

Enjoy your baking adventure, friends!

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