Cake + Challenging recipes (20)

Im not a huge fan of baking, so when I finally do, I always tend to make it elaborate and complicated. Here's my take on an elaborate and complicated brownie.

A lovely cake for any peppa pig fan! I made this for a little boy who was 2 and he totally loved it and clapped in delight when he saw it (I think he thought it was a toy, bless him lol).

This is the Italian answer to Christmas cake. A lovely textured, citrus infused cake or bread that will satiate an appetite for something sweet and delicate to accompany tea or coffee. For this recipe you will need 3 baking-safe panettone paper moulds. Be sure to use paper moulds that are intended for baking.

For a chocolate, pear and walnut upside-down cake, use 2 ripe but firm pears, peeled, cored and sliced, instead of the mango. Substitute 3 tbsp cocoa powder for 3 tbsp of the plain flour, and fold in 30 g (1 oz) finely chopped walnuts instead of the coconut.

Otherwise known as Vacherin - this cake consists of delicious layers of crisp hazelnut meringue, sandwiched together with whipped cream and garnished with strips of rich, dark chocolate. It's a truly decadent dessert.

This classic sponge cake contains less fat than ordinary cakes and makes a great choice for a weekend tea.

What could be better than moist chocolate cupcakes made with Guinness, then topped with a rich, creamy Baileys and chocolate flavoured icing? Not much! Makes 24 cupcakes.

The word 'dobos' means 'like a drum' in Hungarian. However, this cake is named after its creator, Austrian pastry chef Josef Dobos.

Cheesecakes have always been a firm favourite of mine to finish an evening spent wining and dining with friends, or a bit of self indulgence when you're alone. This particular one, subtle in richness but huge on flavour, goes down well with everyone. It's served with a lemon orange compote and crème anglaise.

This is a delectable combination of flavours, perfect for when figs are in season. The chocolate sponge is light but flavourful, thanks to the yoghurt and olive oil. The cinnamon adds a hint of warmth, but is optional. For a special touch, serve with thick Greek yoghurt that you've whipped with a touch of honey, dust with extra cinnamon and serve with a fresh fig half on the side.