Welcome to a delightful journey through the making of Mary Berry’s Coconut Sponge Cake. This recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance, offering a moist and fluffy texture with a rich coconut flavor. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this guide will help you create a delicious cake that is sure to impress.

Mary Berry Coconut Sponge Cake Overview

Mary Berry’s Coconut Sponge Cake is a classic dessert that combines the lightness of a sponge cake with the tropical flavor of coconut. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual afternoon tea to festive celebrations. The recipe is straightforward, using basic ingredients and simple techniques to create a deliciously moist and flavorful cake.

Other Baking Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Classic Appeal: This cake has a timeless charm that never goes out of style.

Easy to Make: Simple steps and readily available ingredients make this recipe accessible to all.
Versatile: Perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to special events.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of coconut and sponge cake creates a delightful taste experience.

Impressive Presentation: This cake looks as good as it tastes, making it a beautiful addition to any table.

Ingredients Needed for Mary Berry Coconut Sponge Cake

225g self-raising flour
225g caster sugar

225g unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
2 tsp baking powder

50g desiccated coconut
2 tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Mary Berry Coconut Sponge Cake

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and grease two 20cm round cake tins.
Mix Ingredients: Combine flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and baking powder in a large bowl.
Add Coconut: Stir in the desiccated coconut, milk, and vanilla extract until well mixed.

Divide Batter: Evenly distribute the batter between the two prepared cake tins.
Bake: Place the tins in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer comes out clean.
Cool Cakes: Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the tins for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Assemble Cake: Once completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting or jam between the two cakes and sandwich them together.
Decorate: Finish with a dusting of icing sugar or additional desiccated coconut on top.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Coconut Sponge Cake

Tea or Coffee: Pairing with a hot beverage enhances the cake’s flavor.

Fresh Berries: Adding a side of fresh berries provides a refreshing contrast.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream complements the cake’s texture.
Ice Cream: Serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy element.

Fruit Compote: A tangy fruit compote can balance the sweetness of the cake.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Mary Berry Coconut Sponge Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.

Even Layers: Use a kitchen scale to divide the batter evenly between tins.
Test for Doneness: Insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean when done.
Cool Completely: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.

Store Properly: Keep the cake covered to maintain its moisture.
Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality butter and vanilla extract make a noticeable difference.

Storing Mary Berry Coconut Sponge Cake: Best Practices

Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container to keep the cake fresh.

Refrigerate for Longevity: Refrigerate if not consumed within a couple of days.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Keep the cake in a cool, dark place.
Layer with Parchment: Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freeze for Later: Freeze the cake for up to three months for longer storage.
Defrost Properly: Defrost in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating Mary Berry Coconut Sponge Cake: Best Practices

Room Temperature: Let the cake come to room temperature naturally.

Microwave in Intervals: Reheat slices in the microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out.
Oven Reheat: Warm in a low oven (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Use Foil: Cover with foil to retain moisture while reheating.

Avoid Overheating: Reheat only until just warm to maintain texture.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy the cake shortly after reheating for the best taste.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 350 kcal

Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugars: 25g

Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Fiber: 1g

Sodium: 200mg

FAQs

How do I make Mary Berry’s Coconut Sponge Cake moist?

To make Mary Berry’s Coconut Sponge Cake moist, ensure you use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter. Don’t overmix the batter, and bake just until a skewer comes out clean. Adding a little extra milk or using full-fat milk can also help retain moisture. Finally, keep the cake covered when not serving to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze Mary Berry’s Coconut Sponge Cake?

Yes, you can freeze Mary Berry’s Coconut Sponge Cake. Once the cake is completely cooled, wrap it tightly in cling film and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. To defrost, place the cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

What frosting goes well with Mary Berry’s Coconut Sponge Cake?

Cream cheese frosting pairs exceptionally well with Mary Berry’s Coconut Sponge Cake. The tanginess of the cream cheese complements the sweetness of the coconut. Alternatively, a simple vanilla buttercream or even a light coconut-flavored frosting can enhance the cake’s flavor.

How can I prevent my coconut sponge cake from sinking in the middle?

To prevent your coconut sponge cake from sinking in the middle, ensure you do not overmix the batter, as this can incorporate too much air. Also, avoid opening the oven door during baking, which can cause the cake to collapse. Bake the cake at the correct temperature and test for doneness with a skewer to ensure it is fully cooked before removing from the oven.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Coconut Sponge Cake is a delightful treat that brings joy with every bite. Whether you are making it for a special occasion or just because this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!

Other Popular Recipes