Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake: A Zesty Delight
When it comes to baking, few names inspire as much reverence as Paul Hollywood. The renowned British baker is known for his masterful creations, and one of his standout recipes is the Lemon Bliss Cake. This dazzling dessert captures the bright essence of lemons, combined with a moist, buttery cake that is perfect for any occasion.
The Allure of Lemon Flavors
Lemon desserts have a unique charm; their tartness brings an invigorating balance to sweet confections. In Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake, the lively citrus flavor is not just an embellishment—it’s a core component that elevates the cake from ordinary to extraordinary. The cake showcases a harmonious blend of freshness and sweetness, making it the perfect companion for afternoon tea or a festive gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate this delicious treat, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 225g unsalted butter, softened
- 225g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 225g self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 100ml whole milk
For the Lemon Syrup:
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 150g caster sugar
For the Icing:
- 200g icing sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: Lemon zest for decoration
Baking Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a round cake tin with parchment paper.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process can take about 5 minutes.
Incorporate Eggs and Zest: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the zest of the lemons for that burst of flavor.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Ensure the ingredients are just combined for a light texture.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour into Cake Tin: Transfer the cake batter into the prepared tin and smooth the surface.
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 3: Lemon Syrup Application
Make the Syrup: While the cake is baking, prepare the lemon syrup. Heat the lemon juice and caster sugar in a small pan until it comes to a simmer and the sugar has dissolved.
Soak the Cake: Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, poke several holes into the top using a skewer or a fork. Drizzle the lemon syrup generously over the cake, allowing it to soak in.
Step 4: Icing the Cake
Prepare the Icing: In a bowl, mix the icing sugar with lemon juice until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. If desired, you can add more lemon juice or sugar to adjust its thickness.
Ice the Cake: Pour the icing over the cooled cake, letting it drizzle down the sides. For an added touch, sprinkle some fresh lemon zest on top.
Serving Suggestions
Allow the cake to set for a little while after icing, and then it’s ready to be sliced and served. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The Lemon Bliss Cake is a vibrant centerpiece that is sure to impress guests and family alike.
Final Thoughts
Baking Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake is not just about following a recipe; it’s an experience that brings a refreshing zest into the kitchen. Perfect for both novice and experienced bakers, this cake is a testament to the joy of baking and the delightful flavors that lemons can bring. Enjoy this blissful treat and let its bright flavor brighten up your day!
