Move over, Victoria sponge, cheesecake has just been voted the king of teatime treats by us Brits.
A poll asking 2,000 adults found that while chocolate and carrot cakes were still crowd-pleasers, nothing beats the creamy, indulgent charm of a good old cheesecake, scooping up 25% of the votes.
Despite the legendary status of the Victoria sponge in British baking, it seems that Brit taste buds are now leaping across the pond, embracing U. S; with favourites like doughnuts, banoffee pie, and scrummy cinnamon buns in their top 30 choices.
It’s not all about seeking new flavours though; traditional cakes haven’t lost their allure with 60% still favouring classic bakes, but let’s face it, who can resist the lure of pistachio croissants or a sinful slice of chocolate Oreo cake?
In light of this delicious research from community hero SPAR, the word is to get baking and host fancy tea parties in support of Marie Curie’s Blooming Great Tea Party initiative, and raise some dough.
Ian Taylor chatting for SPAR, which is pitching in by donating parts of sales from selected goodies to the cause, said: “The results show how diverse our cake preferences are.”
“From rich chocolate cake to classic lemon drizzle, there’s a cake for every palate and occasion. With cheesecake coming out as the UK’s top teatime treat it’s obvious that people are looking for bakes that give us flavours with inspiration from around the world.”
“The popularity of traditional cakes is no surprise as we are a nation that loves our classic bakes, but cakes come in all shapes and sizes so it can be hard to choose a favourite.”
“We love seeing how baking can bring people together and encourage kindness. Hosting a tea party is a great way to unite the community to show off their baking skills and support good causes.”
Cheesecake has emerged as Britain’s go-to teatime indulgence, signalling a craving for globally inspired flavours.
He added: “Classic cakes haven’t lost their charm though; unsurprisingly, they still hold a special place in British hearts because let’s face it, we’re suckers for our timeless bakes,” one quote reports.
“Baking’s about more than just scrummy treats; it’s a formidable force for fellowship. Chucking a tea party’s not just a show of baking prowess it’s a prime opportunity for mateship, shining a spotlight on charitable giving.”
Data reveals clear generational divides when it comes to cake preference: 15% of those aged between 18-24 opt more frequently for red velvet cake, while coffee cake wins the hearts of 28% of the over 55s age group.
But the younger generation seems to be taking over the kitchen, with nearly half (49%) of 18 to 34 year olds considering themselves home bakers, a figure that surpasses the older generation’s 26%.
Gen Zers are also baking more frequently, averaging almost a tri-monthly baking spree, in stark contrast to the 30% of those aged 65 and above who don’t bake at all.
(Image: Getty Images)
TV shows like ‘The Great British Bake Off’ have inspired 20% of Brits to bake more often, with Mary Berry’s signature dishes influencing 10%.
However, despite the rise in young bakers, almost half (47%) believe their grandparents still hold the crown for baking mastery, although 17% believe they can outdo their parents’ baking skills.
A remarkable 41% of Brits can confidently bake a cake from scratch without needing a recipe, and a tidy quarter (25%) can bake without double-checking measurements. Among the younger crowd, 42% of 18- to 24 year olds display this culinary prowess.
The study found that baking isn’t just about the food; 41% of all adults bake purely for enjoyment, while 35% bake for special occasions such as birthdays or family gatherings, which charm 27%.
Furthermore, 72% value creating memories with friends and family over a slice of cake and a cuppa, with 44% believing that baking someone a cake is equivalent to delivering a dollop of affection.
OnePoll.com’s research revealed that a third of people have taken their baking game to philanthropic levels, while a comforting 74% agree that a healing cuppa with cake can alleviate stress and anxiety.
Cake wizard and winner of Lorraine’s Cake Club Competition Suzy Pelta, who whipped up a tangy lemon honey drizzle cake for the Blooming Great Tea Party, said: “Baking is such a great way to show love to your friends and family.”
Pelta further commented, “I love that baking gives you a chance to be creative, make something delicious and bring joy to others, all with a few simple ingredients.”
BRITS TOP 30 FAVOURITE BAKED TREATS:
- Cheesecake
- Chocolate cake
- Carrot cake
- Lemon Drizzle
- Victoria sponge
- Bakewell tart
- Doughnuts
- Millionaire’s shortbread
- Lemon meringue pie
- Coffee cake
- Profiteroles
- Brownies
- Scones
- Banoffee pie
- Shortbread
- Cinnamon buns
- Fruit loaf
- Cookies
- Cupcakes
- Flapjack
- Red velvet cake
- Banana bread
- Swiss roll
- Rocky Road
- Biscoff cheesecake
- Macaroons
- Marble cake
- Pistachio croissants
- Blondies
- Chocolate Oreo Cake