Mary Berry Inspired Sunshine Cake Recipe

Bright, cheerful, and full of flavor, the Mary Berry Sunshine Cake lives up to its name. With its light, fluffy sponge and zesty citrus notes, this cake is perfect for summer gatherings, afternoon tea, or as a simple dessert that instantly lifts your mood. It’s beautifully golden on the outside and moist inside, making it a delightful centerpiece for any table.

What is Mary Berry’s Inspired Sunshine Cake?

Mary Berry’s Sunshine Cake is a soft, citrus-flavored sponge cake made with fresh orange or lemon zest. It’s baked to a golden finish, sometimes topped with a light glaze or dusting of icing sugar for extra sweetness. The cake’s bright flavor and tender crumb make it a refreshing alternative to heavy desserts, embodying Mary Berry’s signature style of simple yet elegant baking.

Other Popular Recipes

• Jamie Oliver’s Inspired Poached Chicken Breast
• Mary Berry Inspired Poached Eggs

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Light and refreshing – the citrus flavor makes it perfect for warm days.
• Easy to make – beginner-friendly with simple ingredients.
• Versatile – works as a tea-time treat, dessert, or party cake.
• Classic Mary Berry style – timeless, elegant, and foolproof.
• Crowd-pleaser – soft sponge with bright flavors everyone loves.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Inspired Sunshine Cake

• Self-raising flour (1 ½ cups / 180g) – gives the cake a light rise.
• Caster sugar (¾ cup / 150g) – sweetens the sponge.
• Unsalted butter (¾ cup / 170g, softened) – adds richness and softness.
• Eggs (3 large) – bind the batter and give structure.
• Orange zest (2 tbsp, from 1–2 oranges) – fresh citrus flavor.
• Lemon zest (1 tbsp, optional) – adds extra brightness.
• Milk (2–3 tbsp) – loosens the batter for a smooth texture.
• Icing sugar (for dusting or glaze, optional) – finishing touch.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Electric hand mixer or wooden spoon
• Grater or zester
• 8-inch round cake tin (lined with parchment)
• Cooling rack

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Inspired Sunshine Cake

• Preheat oven – set to 350°F (180°C) and line a round cake tin with parchment paper.
• Cream butter and sugar – beat until pale and fluffy.
• Add eggs – one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Fold in flour – gently mix in self-raising flour with a spatula.
• Add zest and milk – stir in orange (and optional lemon) zest with milk until smooth.
• Bake cake – pour batter into prepared tin and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden.
• Cool and serve – let the cake cool on a wire rack before dusting with icing sugar or glazing.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Inspired Sunshine Cake

• Fresh berries – raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Whipped cream – light and airy pairing.
• Citrus glaze – drizzle with orange or lemon icing.
• Vanilla ice cream – adds a creamy contrast.
• Afternoon tea – served as part of a cake spread.
• Fruit compote – warm or chilled- enhances flavor.
• Powdered sugar dusting – simple yet elegant finish.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Sunshine Cake

Getting a fluffy sponge and bright flavor depends on a few small details:

• Use room temperature ingredients – helps the batter mix evenly.
• Don’t overmix – keeps sponge light and airy.
• Fresh zest matters – avoid bottled citrus flavorings.
• Check with a skewer – cake is ready when it comes out clean.
• Add a glaze while warm – soaks into the sponge for extra flavor.
• Cool before slicing – prevents crumbling.
• Experiment with decorations – candied orange slices make a great topping.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Sunshine Cake

• Lemon-only version – use just lemon zest for a sharper flavor.
• Orange drizzle cake – pour orange icing over the cooled sponge.
• Layered sunshine cake – slice and fill with whipped cream or buttercream.
• Nutty twist – add ground almonds for richness.
• Tropical flavor – mix in shredded coconut for a summery touch.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry-Inspired Sunshine Cake

• Cool fully before storing – prevents condensation inside the container.
• Store in an airtight container – keeps fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature.
• Refrigerate if glazed – glaze-topped cakes last better when chilled.
• Freeze slices – wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Inspired Sunshine Cake

• Room temperature serving – sunshine cake is best enjoyed as is.
• Microwave slices – heat for 10–15 seconds if you prefer it warm.
• Oven warming – cover with foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes.
• Avoid repeated reheating – preserves texture and flavor.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Inspired Sunshine Cake Healthier?

• Use less sugar or replace it with honey.
• Swap butter with light olive oil or yogurt for reduced fat.
• Add extra zest for flavor without extra calories.
• Use wholemeal self-raising flour for added fiber.
• Pair with fruit instead of heavy cream.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: ~240
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 120mg

Final Words

The Mary Berry-inspired Sunshine Cake is light, zesty, and full of cheerful flavors that truly brighten your table. With its simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. Serve it as a tea-time treat, a summer dessert, or a family favorite that brings sunshine to any occasion.

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