Ahead of National Baking Week (which starts on October 14), we decided to indulge our sweet tooth and take a look at some of our favourite cakes.
From carrot cake to Black Forest gateau, it’s time to sit down with a steaming hot cup of tea, turn on the Great British Bake Off, and enjoy a slice of something delicious!
Did you know…?
- A form of fruit cake was eaten by Roman soldiers who used it to give them energy on long marches. Later, the fruits in the cake were soaked with brandy or rum to preserve them and help the cakes last longer.
- For more than 1,000 years, the Chinese have celebrated the mid-Autumn festival with moon cakes. It’s said that during rebellions against the Mongol rulers in the 14th century, messages were hidden inside these large, round cakes.
- Cakes were originally more like bread and raised with yeast, but in the 18th century they started to bake the sorts of cakes we know and love today.
- In the past, icing was spread on cakes with a feather.
- The first tiered wedding cake was made in 1858 for Queen Victoria’s eldest daughter, also called Victoria.
- In the UK, we spend more than £360 million a year on cakes.
Most popular UK cakes
Victoria sponge – the classic taste of an English garden party, filled with jam and cream.
Banana bread – such a fantastic way to use up over ripe bananas and a staple we all tried out during Covid lockdown.
Chocolate cake – the most popular birthday cake flavour, use dark chocolate and a gooey ganache for a luxurious taste.
Red velvet cake – a show-stopping cake classically made with beetroot to give it a deep red interior, paired with white cream cheese frosting.
Carrot cake – add a little vegetable oil to keep your carrot cake really moist and top it with a cream cheese icing.
Coffee and walnut cake – perfect with an afternoon coffee, use a good quality roast for the best coffee flavour.
Take a look at some of the tempting desserts we create – check out our sample menu page.