Mary Berry Celebration Cake Recipe

Mary Berry’s Celebration Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any festive occasion. This rich sponge cake is layered with luscious buttercream and decorated to impress. Its light texture, combined with a flavorful filling, makes it a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any celebration.

What is Mary Berry Celebration Cake?

Mary Berry’s Celebration Cake is a classic sponge cake made with a rich and fluffy base, layered with buttercream or jam filling, and topped with beautiful decorations like fondant, icing, or fresh fruit. It’s versatile elegant, and can be customized to suit any special occasion.

Other Popular Recipes

• Nigella Pavlova
• Mary Berry Blueberry Traybake
• Mary Berry Last Minute Christmas Cake

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Perfect for special occasions: A centerpiece for celebrations.
• Light and fluffy: The sponge is tender and moist.
• Customizable decorations: Adapt the design to fit the occasion.
• Simple yet impressive: Easy to make with stunning results.
• Versatile flavors: Fill with your favorite jam, buttercream, or fresh fruit.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Celebration Cake

For the Cake:

• Self-raising flour – 225g, for a light and airy sponge.
• Butter – 225g, softened, adds richness.
• Caster sugar – 225g, sweetens the cake.
• Eggs – 4 large, at room temperature, for structure.
• Baking powder – 2 teaspoons, ensures a good rise.
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon, for flavor.

For the Filling:

• Butter – 100g, softened, for the buttercream.
• Icing sugar – 200g, sifted, for a smooth buttercream.
• Jam – 3 tablespoons, your favorite flavor (optional).

For the Decoration:

• Fondant icing – For a smooth and polished look.
• Food coloring – Optional, to match the theme.
• Edible decorations – Flowers, sprinkles, or gold leaf.

Equipment Needed

• Two 8-inch round cake tins
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Parchment paper
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Celebration Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Tins

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
• Grease the cake tins and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

• In a large bowl, beat the butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Sift in the self-raising flour and baking powder, then gently fold into the mixture.
• Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

Step 3: Bake the Cakes

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared tins and smooth the tops.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool the Cakes

• Allow the cakes to cool in their tins for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

• Beat the softened butter and icing sugar together until smooth and creamy to make the buttercream.
• Spread a layer of jam over one cake layer, followed by a layer of buttercream.
• Place the second cake layer on top.

Step 6: Decorate the Cake

• Roll out the fondant icing and cover the cake, smoothing it down gently.
• Use food coloring and edible decorations to create your desired design.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Slice and serve this stunning cake as the centerpiece of your celebration.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Celebration Cake

• Fresh fruit: Strawberries or raspberries for a fresh touch.
• Whipped cream: Light and airy pairing for the rich cake.
• Hot tea or coffee: A classic accompaniment.
• Sparkling wine: Perfect for toasting a special occasion.
• Ice cream: Adds an indulgent element.
• Edible flowers: For an elegant finishing touch.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Celebration Cake

• Use room-temperature ingredients: Ensures a smooth batter and even baking.
• Don’t overmix: Keep the sponge light and fluffy.
• Level the cakes: Trim the tops for an even surface before layering.
• Chill the cake: Refrigerate after adding the filling to make decorating easier.
• Customize the theme: Match the decorations to the occasion.
• Experiment with flavors: Add lemon zest or cocoa powder for variation.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Celebration Cake

• Chocolate version: Replace 50g of flour with cocoa powder.
• Lemon drizzle: Add lemon zest to the batter and drizzle with lemon syrup.
• Fruit-filled: Layer with fresh berries for a summery twist.
• Naked cake: Skip the fondant for a rustic look with visible layers.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Celebration Cake

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate for longer storage: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days.
• Freeze layers separately: Wrap unfrosted layers in cling film and freeze for up to 3 months.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Celebration Cake

• Room temperature: Let the cake sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
• Microwave option: Warm slices for 10–15 seconds for a freshly baked feel.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Celebration Cake Healthier?

• Reduce the sugar in the batter and filling.
• Use whole wheat flour or a flour blend.
• Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
• Replace some butter with unsweetened applesauce.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

FAQs

How do I make Mary Berry Celebration Cake moist?

To keep the cake moist, use room-temperature ingredients, avoid overbaking, and add a splash of milk to the batter. You can also brush the cake layers with simple syrup before adding the filling for extra moisture.

Can I make Mary Berry Celebration Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the sponge layers up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Add the filling and decorations on the day of serving for the best results.

What is the best way to decorate Mary Berry Celebration Cake?

The cake can be decorated with fondant icing, buttercream, or fresh fruits. Use food coloring to match the theme, and add edible decorations like sprinkles or flowers for an elegant touch.

Can I freeze Mary Berry Celebration Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers. Wrap them tightly in cling film and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the layers at room temperature before decorating and serving.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Celebration Cake is the ultimate dessert for any special occasion. Its rich sponge, versatile filling, and elegant decoration make it a centerpiece that will wow your guests. Try this recipe and bring a touch of classic charm to your next celebration!

Print