Make This One-Bowl Lemon Cake in Under an Hour (Zesty, Moist, Perfect)

Introduction

This Easy One-Bowl Lemon Drizzle Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a burst of citrusy flavor to your table. Perfect for any occasion, it is moist, tangy, and incredibly easy to make—no complicated techniques or multiple bowls required!

With its vibrant lemon glaze, this cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to brighten up your day!

Visual Appeal

The glossy lemon drizzle on top of the cake creates a stunning finish that is both inviting and appetizing. A sprinkle of lemon zest or edible flowers can elevate its presentation even further!

Perfect Pairing

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it an ideal choice for afternoon gatherings. It also complements fresh berries and whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.

Occasions to Serve

• Birthday celebrations
• Tea parties
• Summer picnics
• Brunch gatherings

Recipe Overview

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Calories: Approximately 240 per slice

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 180mg

Cook and Prep Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients List

For the Cake

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Drizzle

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients for the cake. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps.
3. Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Make the Drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more sugar or lemon juice as needed.
6. Drizzle the Glaze: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Drizzle Cake

• Use fresh lemons for the best flavor in both the cake and the glaze.
• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Don't overmix the batter—mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• If the cake sinks in the middle, it may be due to underbaking. Always check with a toothpick for doneness.
• If the drizzle is too runny, add more powdered sugar to thicken it up.
• For a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of powdered sugar and increase the lemon juice slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze the unglazed cake for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before glazing.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour instead? Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
3. What can I do if I don’t have buttermilk? You can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to ½ cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
4. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Conclusion

This Easy One-Bowl Lemon Drizzle Cake is not only simple to make but also delivers a refreshing burst of flavor that is sure to please any crowd. With minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction, it's a recipe you'll want to keep handy for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, embrace the zest, and enjoy this delightful treat!