Ah, dear bakers, today I have a delightful treat for you to try: our recipe for a Classic Victoria Sponge Cake, adorned with the luscious sweetness of Quincey Jones Jelly Preserves Co.  Strawberry Jam. This charming cake is the epitome of CWA baking tradition, and it's the perfect choice for spoiling your mum on Mother's Day.

Background:

The Victoria Sponge Cake holds a special place in British culinary history. Legend has it that this delicate yet indulgent cake was a favourite of Queen Victoria herself, often enjoyed during her afternoon tea. With its light and airy sponge layers sandwiched together with jam and a dollop of whipped cream, it's no wonder this cake has remained a beloved classic for generations.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 200g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing
• 200g caster sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 200g self-raising flour, sifted
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Quincey Jones Jelly Preserves Co. Strawberry Jam (or any favourite QJJ Jam, Mixed Berry, Raspberry or Blackberry Jam would do equally as nicely - see below)
• Whipped cream, for filling (optional)
• Icing sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease two 20cm (8in) round cake tins and line the bases with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, adding a spoonful of flour with each egg to prevent curdling.
4. Fold in the sifted flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake tins, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.
7. Remove the cakes from the oven and leave them to cool in the tins for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of Quincey Jones Jelly Preserves Co. Low-Sugar Strawberry Jam over the surface of one cake.
9. If desired, spread whipped cream over the jam layer.
10. Carefully place the second cake on top and dust the top with icing sugar before serving.

Conclusion:

There you have it, folks – a Classic Victoria Sponge Cake, made all the more delightful with the addition of Quincey Jones Jelly Preserves Co. absolutely delicious Strawberry Jam. It's the perfect way to celebrate Mother's Day, or any day, really. So, don your apron, preheat your oven, and let's bake up some love together. Happy baking!