The world of baking and cooking has lost a legendary figure, but her legacy lives on through her beloved recipes. The one and only Mary Berry, renowned for her warm smile, kind heart, and unmatched culinary skills, has left behind a treasure trove of classic dishes that never fail to delight.
From sweet treats like Victoria Sponge Cake and Lemon Drizzle Cake to savory masterpieces like Beef Wellington and Chicken and Mushroom Pie, Mary’s recipe repertoire is a true reflection of her passion for good food and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through some of Mary Berry’s most iconic and mouthwatering creations, each one carefully crafted with love and dedication. So, let’s get cooking and pay tribute to the Queen of British Cooking herself, Mary Berry!
Mary Berry’s Victoria Sponge Cake
A classic British cake that’s a staple of afternoon tea parties, this Victoria sponge cake is a must-try for any baker. With its tender crumb and sweet buttercream filling, it’s the perfect treat to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) cake flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Unsalted butter, softened, for greasing the pans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and eggs until smooth.
3. Add milk and salt; whisk until combined.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before filling with buttercream (recipe not included).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake
This refreshing cake is perfect for springtime celebrations or a sweet treat any time of the year. With its moist lemon-infused sponge, sticky drizzle, and fragrant citrus zest, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups (250g) self-raising flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tsp baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and eggs.
3. Add lemon zest, juice, and softened butter; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan; bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before drizzling with a mixture of powdered sugar and lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tips:
– Make sure to not overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.
– Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste; some people prefer a stronger or weaker citrus flavor.
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Fudge Cake
This classic recipe from Mary Berry yields a moist and indulgent chocolate cake that’s perfect for any occasion. With its deep, fudgy flavor and velvety texture, it’s sure to satisfy any chocolate craving.
Ingredients:
– 225g self-raising flour
– 150g unsalted butter, softened
– 200g golden caster sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 100g dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas mark 4.
2. Grease and line a 20cm deep round tin.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt into the mixture, then stir to combine.
6. Melt chocolate chips and stir into the mixture.
7. Pour batter into prepared tin and smooth top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mary Berry’s Scones with Jam and Clotted Cream
Mary Berry’s Scones with Jam and Clotted Cream Recipe
Classic British treats that are perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a sweet breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• Jam and clotted cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and gently stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it becomes smooth and pliable.
6. Pat the dough into a circle that is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick.
7. Use a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out scones. Gather scraps, re-form the dough, and cut again.
8. Place scones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve warm with your favorite jam and clotted cream for a delightful treat!
Mary Berry’s Beef Wellington
Classic Beef Wellington Recipe by Mary Berry
This show-stopping Beef Wellington recipe is a timeless classic that’s sure to impress your guests. Tender beef, mushrooms, and puff pastry come together in perfect harmony to create a dish fit for a king.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef tenderloin, trimmed of excess fat
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear beef on all sides until browned.
4. Meanwhile, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter until tender.
5. Assemble Wellington by spreading mushroom mixture on beef, then wrapping with puff pastry.
6. Brush top of pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mary Berry’s Chicken and Mushroom Pie
This hearty pie is a comforting classic that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. A flaky pastry crust encases tender chicken, mushrooms, and creamy sauce, ensuring a delightful treat for the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for glazing)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan, sauté chicken, mushrooms, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add flour, chicken broth, and cream; stir until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust; place filling in center.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg; cover with remaining crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mary Berry’s Shepherd’s Pie
Mary Berry’s Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
A classic British comfort dish, Mary Berry’s Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and satisfying meal that combines tender lamb with rich vegetables and crispy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 500g minced lamb
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 200g frozen peas and carrots
– 150ml beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato puree
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped into large chunks
– 30g butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large pan over medium heat, cook the lamb until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato puree, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter and salt to taste.
5. Transfer the lamb mixture to a 20x25cm baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mary Berry’s Sticky Toffee Pudding
A classic British dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! This Sticky Toffee Pudding recipe is a crowd-pleaser, with its moist cake topped with a layer of sticky toffee sauce and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped fresh dates or prunes
– Toffee sauce (see below)
– Sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add milk, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Fold in chopped dates or prunes.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Toffee Sauce:
1. Combine 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, 2 tablespoons water, and 1 tablespoon unsalted butter in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Serve:
1. Slice the cooled pudding and drizzle with toffee sauce.
2. Sprinkle with sea salt to balance the sweetness.
Mary Berry’s Bread and Butter Pudding
A classic British dessert that’s perfect for a cozy evening with family and friends. This moist and flavorful pudding is made with stale bread, buttery goodness, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes and melted butter. Stir until the bread is evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, cream, salt, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the bread mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the pudding into a 1-quart baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart
A classic British dessert that never goes out of fashion! This sweet and sticky tart is a family favorite, perfect for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
– 225g golden syrup (treacle)
– 150g brown sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 100g unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 23cm (9in) tart pan with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, combine treacle, brown sugar, and water. Bring to the boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add melted butter and beaten egg; mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared tart pan, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
6. Pour in the treacle mixture and smooth out.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mary Berry’s Apple Crumble
A classic British dessert that’s perfect for a cozy evening with family and friends. This Mary Berry recipe is a simple yet indulgent treat that combines tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and a hint of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
3. Transfer the apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and salt.
5. Add cold butter to the oat mixture and rub with your fingers until crumbly.
6. Spread the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mary Berry’s Bakewell Tart
A sweet and tangy treat that’s perfect for any occasion, this Bakewell tart is a classic British dessert that’s sure to please. With its flaky pastry crust, juicy jam filling, and creamy almond topping, it’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations.
Ingredients:
– 225g all-butter pastry, homemade or store-bought
– 100g raspberry jam
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pastry and place into a 23cm tart tin.
3. Spread the jam evenly over the base of the pastry.
4. Sprinkle the granulated sugar and almonds over the jam.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the egg wash over the pastry.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mary Berry’s Shortbread Biscuits
These buttery shortbread biscuits are a quintessential British treat that’s perfect for dunking in tea or serving with a cup of coffee. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these crumbly and delicious biscuits that are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flour and salt to the bowl and mix until just combined.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together in a ball.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each biscuit.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mary Berry’s Cheese Straws
These buttery, cheesy straws are perfect as a snack or side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup (100g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the grated cheese and mix until well combined.
4. Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work it into the cheese mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
5. Turn the mixture onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together in a ball.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
8. Place the straws on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mary Berry’s Chocolate Eclairs
These classic French pastries are a crowd-pleaser, and with Mary Berry’s recipe, you’ll be able to create tender, flaky pastry shells filled with rich chocolate cream. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into long rectangles.
3. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each eclair.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow to cool completely before filling with chocolate cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mary Berry’s Meringue Roulade
This classic dessert is a showstopper at any dinner party, with its crispy meringue shell wrapped around a creamy buttercream filling. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy. Gradually add sugar and whisk until stiff peaks form.
3. Spread meringue mixture onto prepared baking sheet, forming an even layer.
4. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until crisp and dry.
5. Allow meringue to cool completely. In a separate bowl, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add flour, milk, and melted butter, beating until smooth.
6. Place cooled meringue on a serving plate and spread buttercream filling along one long edge. Roll meringue tightly into a roulade shape, dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours (meringue) + 30 minutes (buttercream)
Mary Berry’s Lemon Meringue Pie
A classic dessert that’s sure to brighten up any occasion, this lemon meringue pie is a masterclass in balancing sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 x 23cm tart pan with a removable base
– 250g shortcrust pastry (homemade or store-bought)
– 150ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 100g granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup meringue topping (see below)
Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 200g granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the pastry and place in the tart pan, trimming any excess.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, sugar, egg yolks, and melted butter until smooth.
3. Pour the filling into the pastry-lined tart pan and bake for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from oven and prepare meringue topping by whisking egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Spread meringue over the pie, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-27 minutes
Mary Berry’s Carrot Cake
This classic carrot cake recipe from Mary Berry is a staple of British baking, packed with the sweetness of carrots, the warmth of spices, and the creaminess of cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 225g unsalted butter, softened
– 225g granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cups grated carrot
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 120ml whole milk
– Cream cheese frosting (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Beat butter, sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy. Add grated carrot, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
3. Gradually add milk and mix until combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool before spreading with cream cheese frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8oz softened cream cheese
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix all ingredients until smooth and creamy. Spread on cooled cake and serve.
Mary Berry’s Coffee and Walnut Cake
A classic coffee cake recipe with a moist texture and a delicious combination of walnuts and coffee flavors.
Ingredients:
– 225g unsalted butter, softened
– 225g golden caster sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons instant coffee powder
– 150g self-raising flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 100g chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a 20cm (8in) round cake tin.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the coffee powder.
4. Sift in the flour and baking powder, then fold gently into the mixture.
5. Fold in the chopped walnuts and milk.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mary Berry’s Raspberry Swiss Roll
This classic Swiss roll recipe from Mary Berry is a show-stopper, filled with sweet and tangy raspberries. With a light and airy sponge cake, this dessert is perfect for special occasions or as a treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup (200g) fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15-inch (25x38cm) jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until light and fluffy. Add milk, butter, and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
4. Gradually pour dry ingredients into egg mixture; whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the sponge is golden brown.
7. Allow to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, spread with jam and roll up tightly.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 timeless Mary Berry recipes! From sweet treats like Victoria Sponge Cake, Lemon Drizzle Cake, and Sticky Toffee Pudding, to savory classics like Beef Wellington and Shepherd’s Pie, there’s something for everyone. Also featured are comforting desserts like Bread and Butter Pudding and Treacle Tart, as well as indulgent treats like Chocolate Fudge Cake and Meringue Roulade. Whether you’re a fan of Mary Berry or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these classic recipes are sure to please.
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