Last Updated on June 18, 2025 by recipeinspire
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One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: How to Whisk Up Citrus Heaven in Minutes
Are you craving a quick, tangy treat? You’re not alone! Studies show that desserts, particularly citrus-flavored ones, have gained popularity due to their refreshing taste and lower calorie options. Our One-Bowl Lemon Dessert recipe offers effortless delight in just minutes, making it perfect for busy bees needing a citrus fix. Dive in and whisk up bliss with this easy and delightful recipe today!
Ingredients

For this quick and delectable One-Bowl Lemon Dessert, you will need:
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour – For that perfect texture!
- 1 cup of granulated sugar – A hint of sweetness to balance the tartness
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted – Brings richness to the dish
- 2 large eggs – Acts as the binding agent
- 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice – Essential for that tangy flavor
- Zest of 1 lemon – Enhances the lemony essence
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder – For the right rise
- Pinch of salt – To elevate the flavors
Substitutions:
- Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free alternative.
Timing
Ready to indulge in this dessert? Here’s the breakdown:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
This is 20% less time than the average dessert recipe, making it one of the quickest delights you can prepare!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step as it ensures even cooking and that perfect golden top.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, melted butter, and eggs. Whisk them together until smooth. The batter should feel velvety and rich!
Step 3: Add Lemon Goodness
Add in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well incorporated. You’ll start to smell that delightful citrus aroma!
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the flour and baking powder. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the batter light and airy for that delightful texture.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and leave it in the oven for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as baking times can vary based on oven efficiency.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once golden brown, remove from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the bliss of citrus heaven!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert contains approximately:
- Calories: 215
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
This dessert is not only delicious but also fairly balanced in terms of macronutrients, making it an enjoyable indulgence!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to make this dessert even healthier? Consider these options:
- Use stevia or coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar for lower-calorie sweetness.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for half the butter to lighten it up while adding creaminess and protein.
- Add some chia seeds to the batter for extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your dessert experience with these serving ideas:
- Top with whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Serve with fresh berries for a colorful presentation and added antioxidants.
- Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your One-Bowl Lemon Dessert turns out perfectly, avoid these pitfalls:
- Overmixing the batter: This can result in a tough texture. Mix just until combined!
- Skipping the zest: Lemon zest is crucial for enhancing the overall flavor—don’t leave it out!
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key for baking. Use a kitchen scale if possible.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To keep your dessert fresh and delicious:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate and consume within a week.
- You can also freeze portions in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying!

One-Bowl Lemon Dessert: How to Whisk Up Citrus Heaven in 10 Minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One-Bowl Lemon Dessert is a bright, tangy, and creamy treat that’s simple to prepare with just a few ingredients. Perfect for lemon lovers who want a quick, no-fuss dessert with a refreshing citrus punch.
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: graham cracker crumbs or crushed cookies for topping
Instructions
- Whip the cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Combine remaining ingredients: Gently fold in sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Chill: Pour the mixture into a serving dish or individual cups. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until set.
- Serve: Top with graham cracker crumbs or crushed cookies if desired before serving.
Notes
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Adjust sweetness by adding a bit more condensed milk if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of dessert
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: lemon dessert, no bake lemon dessert, easy lemon dessert, one bowl dessert
Conclusion
With our One-Bowl Lemon Dessert recipe, indulging in a quick and tangy treat has never been easier! Simple ingredients, minimal equipment, and quick prep time make this dessert irresistible. So why not whisk up this citrus delight today and share your thoughts in the comments below? Join our community of lemon lovers, and don’t forget to explore our other exciting recipes!
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
While you can, freshly squeezed lemon juice yields a much brighter flavor profile.
How can I make this vegan?
Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use plant-based butter.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure your baking dish is large enough and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Dive into this refreshing dessert and enjoy the burst of tangy goodness! Your taste buds will thank you!