Mary Berry's Strawberry Gateau Recipe

What is Mary Berry Strawberry Gateau Recipe?

A Strawberry Gateau is a light and fluffy sponge cake layered with fresh strawberries and cream, making it a perfect dessert for summer gatherings or special occasions. Mary Berry’s strawberry gateau recipe is simple yet elegant, featuring delicate flavors of fresh strawberries and whipped cream, combined with a moist sponge base.

Table of Contents

What Goes Best with Mary Berry Strawberry Gateau Recipe?

Whipped Cream: Extra whipped cream on the side complements the lightness of the cake.
Strawberry Sauce: A drizzle of strawberry or berry sauce can add a touch of sweetness and extra flavor.
Fresh Berries: Serve with a mix of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream pairs well with the gateau.
Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves can be used as a garnish to enhance the flavor and appearance.

Ingredients

For the Sponge:
- 4 large eggs
- 100g (3½ oz) caster sugar
- 100g (3½ oz) self-raising flour, sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp warm water
For the Filling and Topping:
- 300ml (10 fl oz) double cream
- 2 tbsp icing sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 400g (14 oz) fresh strawberries, sliced
- Extra icing sugar for dusting

How to Prepare Mary Strawberry Gateau Recipe

Instructions:

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two 20cm (8-inch) round cake tins with parchment paper.
Make the sponge: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and caster sugar together using an electric whisk until the mixture is light, fluffy, and has tripled in volume. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
Fold in the flour: Gently fold in the sifted flour and salt in stages, being careful not to knock out too much air. Add the vanilla extract and the warm water, and fold again until just combined.
Bake the sponge: Divide the mixture evenly between the two prepared tins. Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the sponges are golden and spring back when lightly pressed. A skewer inserted into the center should come out clean.
Cool the cakes: Remove the sponges from the oven and allow them to cool in their tins for 5 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, whip the double cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
Assemble the gateau: Once the sponges are completely cooled, spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the top of one sponge. Arrange half of the sliced strawberries on top of the cream. Place the second sponge on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining whipped cream.
Decorate: Arrange the remaining strawberries on top of the cake and dust with icing sugar before serving.

Notes

Sponge tips: To get a light, airy sponge, make sure to whisk the eggs and sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Avoid over-mixing when folding in the flour.
Chill before serving: Chill the cake in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to help it set and make slicing easier.

How to Serve Mary Berry Strawberry Gateau Recipe

Fresh Strawberries: Add more fresh strawberries on the side for extra berry flavor.
Garnish: Top with a few sprigs of fresh mint for added color and aroma.
Accompaniments: Serve with vanilla ice cream or a fruit coulis for extra indulgence.

How to Reheat Mary Berry Strawberry Gateau Recipe

Room temperature: This cake is best served fresh and at room temperature. There is no need to reheat it, as it may cause the cream to melt and spoil the presentation.

How to Store Leftovers of Mary Berry Strawberry Gateau Recipe

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Due to the cream filling, it’s best eaten fresh.
Freezing: This cake doesn’t freeze well because of the whipped cream filling, but you can freeze the sponge on its own for up to 1 month.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Mary Berry Strawberry Gateau Recipe

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Yes, you can use raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries.
Can I make the sponge ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sponge a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze the gateau?
It’s not recommended to freeze the entire cake with the cream, but you can freeze the sponge layers.
What if I don’t have double cream?
You can use whipping cream, but make sure to whip it to soft peaks.
Can I add jam to the filling?
Yes, a layer of strawberry jam can add extra sweetness and flavor.
How do I keep the cake from becoming soggy?
Ensure the sponges are completely cool before adding the cream and fruit to avoid sogginess.
Can I add a liqueur to the cake?
A light drizzle of a strawberry or orange liqueur can enhance the flavor.
Can I use store-bought sponge?
Yes, for convenience, you can use a store-bought sponge and assemble the cake with fresh cream and strawberries.
Can I make the gateau gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the self-raising flour with gluten-free flour.
What can I do with leftover whipped cream?
Use it to top coffee, serve with fresh fruit, or freeze it in dollops to use later.