Mary Berry Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a deliciously unique twist on a classic favorite, then you absolutely have to try Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf!

This recipe brings together the richness of wholemeal flour with the zesty freshness of orange, creating a loaf that’s both hearty and refreshing. It’s a perfect balance of flavors that will have you reaching for another slice, whether for breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or even as a light dessert. Plus, Mary Berry’s foolproof methods make it so easy to bake, so you can enjoy a homemade treat without any stress. Give it a go – your taste buds will thank you!

Mary Berry Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf, you’ll need a variety of ingredients that combine to create a wonderfully moist, flavorful loaf cake. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. Wholemeal Flour (225g):
   Wholemeal flour is the star of this recipe, bringing a nutty, hearty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the orange. It also gives the cake a slightly denser, more rustic texture compared to regular all-purpose flour. Wholemeal flour adds fiber, making this loaf a more wholesome option while maintaining the lightness of a classic Victoria sponge.

2. Caster Sugar (200g):
   Caster sugar is a fine sugar that dissolves easily, helping to create a smooth, airy batter. The sweetness of the caster sugar complements the tangy citrus flavor and balances the earthiness of the wholemeal flour, giving the cake just the right level of sweetness without overpowering the other flavors.

3. Butter (200g, softened):
   Softened butter ensures that the batter has a light, fluffy texture. It also imparts a rich, creamy flavor to the loaf. As the butter is creamed with sugar, air is incorporated into the mixture, leading to a lighter finished product with a tender crumb.

4. Baking Powder (1 tsp):
   Baking powder is the leavening agent used in this recipe, ensuring the loaf rises perfectly as it bakes. It helps the wholemeal flour achieve a slightly airy texture without making the cake overly light and delicate like sponge cakes made with white flour.

5. Eggs (4 large):
   Eggs provide structure, moisture, and richness to the cake. They help bind the ingredients together and give the loaf its smooth texture. Eggs also play a role in the rising process, as they help to aerate the batter when whisked with the butter and sugar.

6. Orange Zest (from 1 orange):
   The zest of an orange infuses the loaf with a fresh, fragrant citrus flavor. The oil in the zest adds a subtle, aromatic quality, making the loaf taste like a burst of sunshine. Zest is more potent than juice, so a little goes a long way in giving the cake that distinct orange taste.

7. Orange Juice (from 1 orange):
   The juice adds both flavor and moisture to the loaf, helping to create a tender crumb. It also enhances the citrus notes, making them more pronounced and balanced against the richness of the butter and sugar.

8. Milk (2 tbsp):
   Milk is used to adjust the consistency of the batter. A splash of milk helps ensure that the loaf is neither too dry nor too wet, contributing to its overall softness. It’s particularly important when working with wholemeal flour, which can absorb more liquid than plain flour.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf, you’ll need a few basic pieces of kitchen equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Mixing Bowls:
   You’ll need at least two mixing bowls-one for combining your dry ingredients (flour, baking powder) and another for creaming the butter and sugar together. Using separate bowls helps prevent overmixing and allows you to ensure the consistency of the batter.

2. Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer:
   While you can mix the ingredients by hand, an electric hand mixer or stand mixer makes the process much easier and quicker. It ensures that the butter and sugar are well-creamed, which is crucial for achieving the light, airy texture of the cake. It also helps in incorporating the eggs without deflating the mixture.

3. Measuring Cups and Spoons:
   Accurate measurements are essential for a successful bake, especially when working with precise ingredients like baking powder and sugar. Ensure you have measuring cups and spoons to measure out your ingredients accurately.

4. Loaf Tin (approximately 22cm x 12cm):
   A standard loaf tin is essential for this recipe. The size allows the batter to bake evenly, ensuring a perfectly risen loaf with a soft, moist interior. Grease and line the loaf tin with baking paper to make removing the cake easier once it’s done.

5. Grater (for zesting the orange):
   A fine grater or zester is needed to get the zest from the orange without the bitter pith. Zesting the orange gives the cake a more intense flavor than using orange juice alone, so it’s an essential tool for this recipe.

6. Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer:
   Sifting the flour helps to remove any lumps and aerates it, making it lighter. A fine mesh strainer can also help sift the baking powder and dry ingredients together, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.

7. Cooling Rack:
   After baking the loaf, you’ll need to let it cool down properly. A cooling rack allows air to circulate around the cake, preventing it from becoming soggy and ensuring the loaf cools evenly without losing its texture.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf

Making Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf is a fairly simple process that requires a bit of patience to get the creaming and mixing just right. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease and line your loaf tin with baking paper to ensure the cake doesn’t stick once it’s baked.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and caster sugar using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat them until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The more air you incorporate, the lighter the loaf will be.

3. Add Eggs One at a Time:
   Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and beat them lightly. Add them to the butter and sugar mixture, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step is key to preventing the mixture from curdling and helps maintain a smooth batter.

4. Add Orange Zest and Juice:
   Once the eggs are mixed in, stir in the freshly grated orange zest and juice. These will give the loaf a vibrant citrus flavor that contrasts beautifully with the wholemeal flour.

5. Sift Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, sift together the wholemeal flour and baking powder. Sifting helps remove any lumps and ensures the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.

6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. You can use a spatula to gently fold in the flour. If the mixture feels a little thick, add the milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach the right consistency.

7. Pour Into Tin and Bake:
   Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake to ensure it doesn’t brown too quickly-if it does, cover it loosely with foil.

8. Cool the Cake:
   Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Expert Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best results, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin. This includes the butter and eggs. Room temperature ingredients mix more evenly, helping to achieve a smooth, consistent batter.

• Don’t Overmix: When folding in the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf. The key is to combine the ingredients just until there are no visible streaks of flour.

• Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice gives the loaf a much more vibrant and zesty flavor than store-bought orange juice. The zest also contributes significantly to the overall citrus experience, so don’t skip it.

• Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cake after 50 minutes. If the top is golden but the skewer comes out with batter, cover the top loosely with foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes.

• Moisture Adjustments: Wholemeal flour can absorb more liquid than plain flour, so it’s important to check the consistency of the batter. If it seems too thick, add a little extra milk to get the right consistency.

Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf is a delightful, easy-to-make cake that brings together the best of both worlds: the hearty goodness of wholemeal flour and the bright, refreshing flavor of orange. This loaf is perfect for a mid-morning treat or a comforting dessert to enjoy with tea.

With the right balance of ingredients and a few simple tips, you can recreate this delicious loaf in your kitchen and impress your family or guests. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is accessible and rewarding, offering a slice of warmth and flavor with every bite.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf

Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf is a delightful, hearty twist on the traditional Victoria sponge, with the addition of wholemeal flour and a zesty citrus flavor. If you’re looking to mix things up or add a personal touch, there are several easy recipe variations to try. These variations allow for flexibility while still keeping the loaf’s fundamental charm intact.

1. Adding a Nutty Twist: To add texture and extra depth of flavor, consider incorporating chopped walnuts, hazelnuts, or almonds into the batter. These nuts will complement the wholemeal flour and provide a delightful contrast to the softness of the loaf. You could also sprinkle them on top before baking for a crunchy finish.

2. Spiced Orange Loaf: If you’re a fan of warming spices, you can easily turn this loaf into an autumnal treat by adding ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger. A teaspoon of ground cinnamon would pair beautifully with the orange zest and give the loaf an extra layer of flavor, especially if you’re serving it during colder months.

3. Dried Fruit Variation: For those who enjoy the sweet chewiness of dried fruits, consider adding a handful of raisins, sultanas, or even dried apricots to the batter. The moisture from the fruit adds richness and sweetness, making each slice even more indulgent.

4. Orange and Lemon Combo: While the recipe highlights orange as the star flavor, you can take it to another level by introducing lemon. The combination of orange and lemon zest would create a wonderfully fragrant loaf, with an additional zingy freshness. You could even add a little lemon juice to the glaze if you want to elevate the citrusy profile.

5. Chocolate Orange: For those who love chocolate, mixing in some chopped dark or milk chocolate and a few tablespoons of cocoa powder will take this loaf to new heights. The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the citrus, evoking the popular chocolate-orange combination we all know and love.

6. Vegan Option: To make this loaf vegan-friendly, simply replace the eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water), and swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. You’ll still achieve a moist and flavorful loaf, with all the richness of the original recipe.

These variations allow you to experiment with flavors while keeping the integrity of Mary Berry’s classic loaf. You can adjust the sweetness, texture, and even the dietary profile based on your personal preferences, making it a versatile treat suitable for a wide range of occasions.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

When it comes to storing leftover Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf, ensuring it stays fresh and maintains its delicious texture is essential. Proper storage methods not only help preserve the loaf but also extend its shelf life, ensuring that every slice remains just as tasty as the first. Here are the best practices for storing leftovers:

1. Cool Completely Before Storing: The most important step in storing any baked good is to let it cool completely. If you try to store the loaf while it’s still warm, condensation will form inside the storage container, leading to sogginess and loss of texture. Let the loaf rest on a wire rack for an hour or so before putting it away.

2. Airtight Container: The best way to preserve the freshness of your Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf is to store it in an airtight container. This prevents air from entering, which could cause the loaf to dry out or become stale. A well-sealed container will keep it moist for up to 3-4 days at room temperature.

3. Wrap in Cling Film or Parchment Paper: If you don’t have an airtight container, wrapping the loaf tightly in cling film or parchment paper can also work well. This helps lock in moisture and protect the loaf from air exposure. You could then place the wrapped loaf in a resealable plastic bag for an added layer of protection.

4. Refrigeration for Extended Freshness: If you want to keep your loaf fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate it. However, be mindful that refrigeration can slightly alter the texture, potentially making it a bit firmer. To prevent this, you could wrap the loaf tightly and then allow it to come to room temperature before serving. Refrigerated, it should stay good for about a week.

5. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: Freezing is the best way to preserve leftover slices of Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf for an extended period. Slice the loaf before freezing, as this makes it easier to defrost only what you need. Wrap individual slices in cling film and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can defrost slices at room temperature or quickly warm them in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

6. Reheating Leftovers: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover loaf, you can reheat it gently in a microwave or in the oven. If you’re reheating individual slices, a few seconds in the microwave should be enough to soften them. For larger portions, a low oven temperature (around 150°C/300°F) for 10-15 minutes will help restore some of the original moisture and warmth.

Following these practices will help maintain the flavor and texture of your loaf, ensuring that any leftovers are just as enjoyable as the fresh slices.

What Goes Well With Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf

While the Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf is delicious on its own, there are a number of accompaniments that can enhance the experience and elevate the flavors of this delightful bake. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy tea or a casual brunch, these ideas will complement the loaf beautifully:

1. Whipped Cream or Clotted Cream: The richness of freshly whipped cream or indulgent clotted cream pairs perfectly with the zesty, slightly sweet loaf. A dollop on the side adds a luxurious touch and balances the loaf’s texture with its creamy, velvety consistency.

2. Fresh Berries or Fruit Compote: For a refreshing, slightly tangy contrast to the loaf’s rich, moist texture, serve it with a side of fresh berries-such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries. Alternatively, you can top the loaf with a homemade fruit compote made from mixed berries or even stewed apples or pears. The acidity from the fruit highlights the citrus notes in the loaf.

3. Orange Marmalade or Citrus Jam: Since the loaf already has orange zest incorporated into it, topping it with a spoonful of orange marmalade or a citrus-based jam enhances the orange flavor and adds a lovely spreadable component. The sweetness and slight bitterness of marmalade create a delightful balance with the loaf.

4. Tea or Coffee: A classic pairing with any baked good, especially one as fragrant as this, is a warm cup of tea or coffee. The subtle citrus notes of the loaf pair beautifully with Earl Grey or English Breakfast tea, while a bold cup of freshly brewed coffee can bring out the loaf’s more nuanced flavors.

5. Yogurt or Cottage Cheese: For a more savory or lighter accompaniment, serve slices of the loaf with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. The creaminess of yogurt or the mild tang of cottage cheese offers a nice contrast to the loaf’s sweetness, while still enhancing its overall richness.

6. Cheese: A surprising but fantastic pairing with Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf is cheese. A mild soft cheese like cream cheese or even brie complements the citrus notes, and a sharp cheese, such as cheddar, creates an interesting contrast of flavors.

These combinations are versatile, allowing you to adjust based on the season or your personal taste preferences. Whether you’re craving something sweet, tart, or savory, there’s a perfect pairing to suit every occasion.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf is a delightful variation on the classic Victoria sponge, offering a balance of rich texture and bright citrus flavor. Its versatility allows for a range of easy adaptations to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

From spiced variations to vegan-friendly substitutions, there’s no limit to how you can customize this loaf to your liking. By following the best practices for storing leftovers, you can enjoy the loaf for days to come, keeping it as fresh and flavorful as when it was first baked.

Pair it with anything from whipped cream to a hot cup of tea, and you have a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s enjoyed on its own or dressed up with delightful toppings, this loaf is sure to please and make an impact at any table.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf?

The ingredients for this loaf include wholemeal flour, self-raising flour, unsalted butter, caster sugar, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and baking powder. The combination of these ingredients creates a light yet hearty loaf with a citrusy flavor.

Can I Use Regular Flour Instead Of Wholemeal Flour In Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf?

While you can substitute regular all-purpose flour for wholemeal flour, the loaf will have a different texture and flavor. Wholemeal flour contributes to a denser texture and a more rustic, earthy flavor. Using regular flour will result in a lighter, fluffier loaf.

How Long Should I Bake Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf?

The loaf typically needs to be baked for about 45 to 50 minutes at 180°C (350°F), but baking times may vary depending on your oven. It’s important to check the loaf towards the end by inserting a skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, the loaf is done.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this loaf gluten-free by substituting the wholemeal flour and self-raising flour with gluten-free flour blends. Make sure to also use a gluten-free baking powder to maintain the rise and texture of the loaf.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf Dairy-free?

To make the loaf dairy-free, you can replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil, margarine, or a plant-based butter. Ensure that the other ingredients, such as eggs and orange juice, are suitable for a dairy-free diet.

Can I Add Nuts Or Dried Fruit To Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf?

Yes, you can personalize the loaf by adding chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, or dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or apricots. If adding dried fruit, make sure to coat them in a little flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the loaf during baking.

What Is The Best Way To Store Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf?

To store the loaf, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge, or freeze it for up to three months.

Can I Frost Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf?

While Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf is delicious on its own, you can certainly frost it with a simple glaze or frosting. A basic orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice would complement the citrusy flavors of the loaf.

What Makes Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf Different From A Traditional Victoria Sponge?

Mary Berry’s Orange Wholemeal Victoria Loaf is a variation of the traditional Victoria Sponge, but it uses wholemeal flour and orange zest, giving it a denser texture and a refreshing citrus twist. A Victoria Sponge is usually a lighter, more airy cake made with white flour, whereas the loaf form adds a hearty, satisfying element.

Can I Substitute The Orange Zest With Lemon Zest In This Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the orange zest with lemon zest for a different citrus flavor. This will give the loaf a more tart and tangy profile, but it will still pair wonderfully with the wholemeal flour.