Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake is a delightful treat that brings a zesty twist to traditional desserts. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that envelops you in the refreshing flavors of lemon. The tangy notes combined with the cake’s moist texture will create a symphony of taste that lingers on your palate. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, this cake stands out for its incredible flavor and gorgeous presentation.
Imagine slicing into a perfectly baked lemon cake, the aroma wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone nearby. The first bite reveals a luscious blend of sweet and tart, making it irresistible. This Lemon Bliss Cake is perfect for gatherings or family dinners; it will indeed bring smiles to the faces of all who taste it.
In this guide, you’ll learn the ins and outs of making Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake. You’ll see why this recipe holds a special place in the hearts of bakers everywhere. With clear steps and useful tips, even beginner bakers can create a stunning dish that impresses. So, let’s dive into the amazing world of lemony deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to fall in love with Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake. Here are some standout features that make this recipe a must-try for everyone:
1. Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh lemons enhances the flavor exponentially, making every bite delightful.
2. Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes minimal time to set up, so you can indulge sooner rather than later.
3. Versatility: The lemon flavor can be adjusted. You can make it more intense or mild depending on your preference.
4. Visual Appeal: The bright yellow color and elegant design create a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.
5. Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for a range of occasions – birthdays, tea parties, or even just a cozy weekend treat.
6. Easy to Follow: Well-structured instructions guarantee success for bakers of all skill levels.
With these factors combined, it’s easy to see why this cake is beloved. Each element contributes to a rich experience that’s truly a joy to savor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Making Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake is an enjoyable process that will only take about 1 hour and 20 minutes in total. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
– Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes
These times may vary based on your kitchen equipment and experience, but they offer a great guideline for planning your baking session.

Ingredients

– 250g unsalted butter, softened
– 250g granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– Zest of 2 lemons
– 300g all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 100ml whole milk
– Juice of 2 lemons
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and line two round 20cm (8 inch) cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Incorporate Lemon Zest: Stir in the lemon zest, which adds a bright flavor to the batter.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, combining until just smooth.
7. Add Lemon Juice: Finally, mix in the lemon juice, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
8. Pour Batter: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops for an even finish.
9. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool Cakes: Remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Assemble: Once cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Top with a layer of frosting, if desired, then add the second layer and repeat.
12. Finish: Dust the top with powdered sugar before serving to add a delicate touch.
By following these steps, you will create a stunning Lemon Bliss Cake that is sure to impress!

How to Serve

To ensure Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake shines when served, consider these thoughtful serving suggestions:
1. Presentation: Use a decorative cake stand to elevate the cake’s appearance; this adds sophistication to your serving.
2. Accompaniments: Serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the zestiness of the cake.
3. Slice Size: Offer generous slices that provide enough for guests without overwhelming them. Encouraging smaller portions can lead to delightful seconds!
4. Drink Pairings: A cup of tea or a light dessert wine pairs well and brings out the cake’s flavors beautifully.
By putting emphasis on presentation and thoughtful pairings, you can create a memorable experience that everyone will enjoy!

Additional Tips

– Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh lemons and high-quality butter make a significant difference in flavor.
– Let Ingredients Reach Room Temperature: Before starting, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature; this helps create a smooth batter.
– Test Cake for Done-ness: Use a toothpick to check doneness. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
– Experience with Zesting: A microplane works wonders for zesting lemons, ensuring you capture just the flavorful yellow zest without the bitter white pith.
– Lemon Syrup Option: For an extra burst of flavor, you can drizzle a lemon syrup over the cake layers while they cool.

Recipe Variation

Switching up the recipe can keep things exciting! Here are some variations to consider:
1. Lemon Blueberry Bliss Cake: Add fresh or frozen blueberries to the batter for a fruity twist.
2. Lemon Poppy Seed Cake: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds into the batter for added texture.
3. Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting: Instead of a dusting of powdered sugar, top the cake with a light lemon cream cheese frosting for richness.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly treat.
5. Lemon Almond Bliss Cake: Add almond extract to the batter for a lovely nutty flavor alongside the lemon.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate to extend freshness to about a week.
– Freezing: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Special Equipment

You’ll need the following tools to make Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake:
– Mixing bowls of different sizes
– Electric mixer or whisk
– 20cm (8 inch) round cake pans
– Parchment paper for lining the pans
– Toothpick for testing doneness
– Cooling racks for optimal cooling
– Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient portions

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully.
Is this cake suitable for dietary restrictions?
You can make this cake dairy-free by replacing butter with a plant-based margarine and using non-dairy milk.
Can I add frosting on top?
Absolutely! Adding a lemon-flavored buttercream can elevate the cake even further.
Can I adjust the lemon flavor?
Yes, you can increase or decrease the amount of lemon juice and zest based on your preference for tartness.

Conclusion

Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful creation that dazzles both the eye and the palate. Its combination of flavors and textures makes it an impressive dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. With easy-to-follow steps and helpful variations, anyone can master this cake. Share it with friends and family for memorable moments filled with sweetness and joy.

Print