Craving a dessert that’s equal parts fresh, zesty, and indulgent? Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake is a citrus lover’s dream, combining the sharp tang of lemon with a soft, buttery crumb that practically melts in your mouth. It’s not just a treat—it’s a statement piece for your dessert table. Whether you’re baking for brunch, birthdays, or just because, this recipe will leave a lasting impression.
Let’s dive into how you can recreate this bakery-worthy masterpiece at home.
What Makes Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake So Special?
Paul Hollywood, a master baker and judge from The Great British Bake Off, is known for his no-nonsense approach to baking—and this cake is no exception. His Lemon Bliss Cake strikes the perfect balance between texture, moisture, and citrus flavor.
Key Characteristics:
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Rich and buttery base
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Bold lemon flavor from zest and juice
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Moist crumb that stays fresh for days
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Optional drizzle or glaze for added sweetness and shine
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of ingredients for Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake. Each one plays a vital role in creating a bakery-style finish:
Dry Ingredients:
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200g (1 2/3 cups) all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients:
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200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
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200g (1 cup) caster sugar
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4 large eggs
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Zest of 2 lemons
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Juice of 1 lemon
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Lemon Glaze (Optional but Recommended):
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100g (1/2 cup) icing sugar
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Juice of 1 lemon
How to Make Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake (Step-by-Step)
1: Prep Your Tools
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
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Grease and line a 9-inch loaf tin or round cake pan.
2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
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Beat the softened butter with the caster sugar until light and fluffy.
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This takes around 4–5 minutes with an electric mixer and is key for a light texture.
3: Add Eggs and Flavor
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Beat in the eggs one at a time.
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Add the lemon zest, juice, and vanilla extract.
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If the mixture curdles, add a tablespoon of flour to bring it back together.
4: Fold in Dry Ingredients
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Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together.
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Gently fold them into the wet mixture using a spatula—do not overmix.
5: Bake
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Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
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Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
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Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack.
6: Add the Glaze (Optional)
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Mix icing sugar with lemon juice to make a pourable glaze.
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Drizzle over the warm cake for a glossy, tangy finish.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Lemon Bliss Cake
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Use room temperature ingredients for smoother mixing.
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Fresh lemons make a noticeable difference—avoid bottled juice.
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Don’t overmix the batter, or your cake might turn dense.
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Add poppy seeds or blueberries for a fun twist.
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Variations on Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake
Lemon Drizzle Version
Skip the glaze and poke holes in the baked cake, pouring over a warm lemon syrup made of sugar and lemon juice.
Lemon Layer Cake
Double the recipe and layer with lemon curd and whipped cream for a celebration-worthy dessert.
Lemon Bliss Cupcakes
Use the same batter in a muffin tin for easy-to-serve individual portions.
Why Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake Is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re a home baker or an experienced patissier, this cake offers:
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Ease of preparation: Straightforward steps with no complex techniques.
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Elegant presentation: A simple glaze turns it into a visual delight.
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Versatility: Works as a brunch treat, tea-time snack, or formal dessert.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
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Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer Friendly: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave to restore softness before serving.
Conclusion
Paul Hollywood’s Lemon Bliss Cake is more than just a lemon cake—it’s a burst of sunshine in every bite. With its velvety crumb, citrus punch, and elegant glaze, it’s the kind of dessert that earns a permanent spot in your baking rotation.