English Cakes

Lemon drizzle cake is a traditional cake and a staple of afternoon tea. Although not much is known about its origin, it is believed that the first lemon drizzle was made by a Jewish woman named Evelyn Rose in 1967. This simple sponge cake is usual... READ MORE

Victoria sponge is an English layer cake filled with fruit jam (and sometimes, whipped cream). It was invented by Queen Victoria's cooks in the 19th century, when it was one of the main stars at the Queen's tea parties, along with sandwiches and s... READ MORE

Even though it remains unclear exactly how long this traditional English sponge cake has been around for, one of the earliest known recipes for Madeira cake was found in Elizabeth Acton's Modern Cookery for Private Families, published in ... READ MORE

Battenberg cake is a light dessert consisting of alternating, colored squares of genoise sponge coated with an exterior of apricot jam and almond paste. It is believed that the cake was invented in order to celebrate the 1884 wedding of P... READ MORE

Parkin or perkin is a sticky cake originating from Northern England, although it is mostly associated with Yorkshire. It consists of flour, oatmeal, black treacle, and either lard or butter. Many cooks like to spice it up with a hefty dos... READ MORE

Hevva is a cake from Cornwall consisting of spelt flour, butter, sugar, milk, lard, and raisins or currants. The name hevva is linked to the landing of a shoal of fish, and then the huer would shout “hevva, hevva“, gi... READ MORE

Queen Elizabeth cake is a moist, date-based cake with a distinctive caramelized coconut topping. It is known for its rich, sweet flavor and chewy texture and is often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations. The cake's origins are linked... READ MORE