Finding a dessert that everyone in the family loves can be a challenge, especially when you’re short on time. This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is the answer to your sweet cravings without the fuss. It comes together quickly, uses just one bowl, and brings a burst of bright lemon flavor that’s sure to delight both kids and adults. You’ll enjoy the ease of making it, and your family will love the taste!
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a favorite for busy moms because it ticks all the right boxes. It’s incredibly easy to make, which means less time in the kitchen and more time with your family. The ingredients mix quickly, and everything happens in a single bowl, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, this dessert is versatile—serve it warm or chilled, and it pairs perfectly with afternoon tea or a scoop of whipped cream. It’s comforting, kid-friendly, and simply delicious.
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
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until pale and slightly thickened. Add the oil, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is fully combined.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt directly into the same bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or spoon, just until the batter is smooth. Do not overmix—a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 4: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Dust
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before lifting it out. Dust with powdered sugar if desired, and cut into squares or rectangles.
Step 6: Enjoy
Serve it slightly warm or chilled. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or a dollop of whipped cream.
One-Bowl Lemon Dessert
A quick and easy one-bowl dessert bursting with bright lemon flavor, perfect for family gatherings and afternoon tea.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
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)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8 x 8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until pale and thickened. Add the oil, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into the bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 28–32 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.
- Serve warm or chilled, optionally with whipped cream or berries.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Freezes well for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
How to Serve
Serve your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert as a delightful end to a family dinner or a special treat during lunch. You can cut it into square or rectangular pieces, making it easy for little hands to grab. Consider serving it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer it chilled, you can keep it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about a week. If you’d like to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Tips and Variations
- For a richer flavor, try adding a few tablespoons of lemon curd to the batter.
- You can substitute the lemon juice with orange juice for a twist.
- Add poppy seeds to the batter for an extra crunch and flavor.
- If you prefer a fluffier texture, separate the egg whites and beat them until soft peaks form, then fold them in gently.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, bottled lemon juice works fine, but fresh lemon juice really enhances the flavor.
Can I make this a gluten-free dessert?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The dessert is ready when the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Conclusion
This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is not only a quick and easy recipe but also a delightful treat that will brighten your family’s day. Try it out today, and don’t forget to save this recipe for later. Your family will thank you for it!
