With the arrival of the 12th season of the popular baking show, we can’t help but feel excited to see what delicious creations the talented bakers will whip up this time. But while watching from the comfort of our own homes, why not join in on the fun and try our hand at some classic British bakes? From buttery shortbread to light and fluffy genoise sponge, we’ve rounded up some easy and delicious recipes that you can make right in your own kitchen.
First up on our list is the classic shortbread. This buttery, crumbly treat is a staple in British baking and is surprisingly simple to make. All you need is flour, sugar, and a whole lot of butter. Simply mix the ingredients together, press the dough into a baking pan, and bake until golden brown. The result? A melt-in-your-mouth treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea. For an extra twist, try adding some dried fruits, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to your shortbread dough.
Next on our list is the famous Victoria sponge cake, or as it’s more commonly known, genoise sponge. This light and airy cake is a crowd-pleaser, and once again, the recipe is quite easy. With just a few ingredients such as eggs, sugar, and flour, you can whip up a delicious genoise sponge that is perfect for any occasion. And the best part? It’s a blank canvas for all kinds of toppings and fillings. Whether you prefer a classic jam and cream filling or want to get creative with some fresh fruit and chocolate ganache, the genoise sponge can handle it all.
Moving on to a British breakfast staple, we have the ever-so-delicious crumpets. These fluffy, round cakes are perfect for a lazy weekend brunch and are surprisingly easy to make. With just flour, yeast, and milk, you can create the perfect crumpet batter. Let it rest for a bit before cooking it in a greased pan until golden brown on both sides. Serve with some butter and honey, or get creative with some savory toppings like avocado and poached eggs. Trust us, once you try homemade crumpets, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought ones.
No British baking list is complete without mentioning scones. These small, yet satisfying, treats are a staple in any afternoon tea spread. And the best part? You can make them in just 20 minutes. All you need is flour, sugar, butter, and some milk. Mix the ingredients together, cut the dough into circles, and bake until golden brown. You can also add some dried fruits, chocolate chips, or even cheese to your scone dough for some added flavor. Serve them with clotted cream and jam, and you’ll have the perfect afternoon treat.
Last but not least, we have the ultimate comfort food – bread pudding. This hearty dessert is a British institution and is perfect for cooler weather. Made with bread, milk, and eggs, it’s a great way to use up any leftover bread you may have lying around. You can also add some raisins, cinnamon, or even chocolate chips to your bread pudding for a delicious twist. Serve it warm with some custard or whipped cream, and you’ll have a dessert that will warm your soul.
As we eagerly await the new season of the baking show, let’s channel our inner bakers and try our hand at these classic British bakes. Not only will it be a fun activity to do at home, but you’ll also get to enjoy some delicious treats at the end. And who knows, you may just discover a hidden talent for baking along the way. Happy baking!
