Mary Berry 3-Layer Victoria Sponge Recipe

Mary Berry’s 3-Layer Victoria Sponge is the ultimate showstopper for any occasion. With its soft, buttery sponge, generous layers of jam and cream, and a light dusting of icing sugar, this triple-tiered version takes the classic British favorite to a whole new level. Perfect for birthdays, afternoon tea, or celebrations, this cake combines elegance with simplicity — exactly what Mary Berry is known for.

What is Mary Berry’s 3-Layer Victoria Sponge?

The 3-Layer Victoria Sponge is a light, airy cake made with equal parts flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, filled with whipped cream and strawberry jam. Mary Berry’s version maintains the traditional taste but adds extra height and beauty with three perfectly baked layers stacked together.

Other Mary Berry Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Sponge Fruit Flan
• Mary Berry Gluten Free Victoria Sponge
• Mary Berry Victoria Sponge
• Mary Berry All-in-One Victoria Sponge

Why This Recipe is Worth Trying

• Classic British elegance – A timeless tea-time treat.
• Beautiful presentation – Three layers make it visually stunning.
• Soft and light texture – Perfectly balanced sponge every time.
• Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples.
• Versatile – Ideal for celebrations or casual get-togethers.

Essential Ingredients to Make Mary Berry 3-Layer Victoria Sponge

For the sponge:

• 300g self-raising flour
• 300g caster sugar
• 300g unsalted butter, softened
• 6 large eggs
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

For the filling:

• 250ml double cream, whipped
• 6 tbsp strawberry jam (or raspberry jam)
• Icing sugar, for dusting

Handy Kitchen Tools for Best Results

• Three 20cm round sandwich tins
• Electric whisk or stand mixer
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula for spreading
• Sieve for dusting icing sugar

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mary Berry 3-Layer Victoria Sponge

Step 1: Prepare the tins

Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease and line three 20cm round tins with baking paper.

Step 2: Make the sponge batter

In a large bowl, beat butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, vanilla, and milk together using an electric whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Divide and bake

Divide the mixture evenly between the tins. Level the tops and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and springy to the touch.

Step 4: Cool the cakes

Leave cakes in tins for 5 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the filling

Whip the double cream until soft peaks form. Set aside with the jam ready to spread.

Step 6: Assemble the layers

Place one sponge on a serving plate, spread a layer of jam, followed by cream. Repeat with the second layer. Top with the final sponge and dust with icing sugar.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Slice into generous portions and serve with tea or coffee.

What I Got Wrong (And How I Fixed It)

• Uneven layers – I didn’t weigh batter evenly. Measuring by weight gave perfect layers.
• Dry sponge – Overbaked slightly. Reducing the baking time by a few minutes kept it moist.
• Cream too runny – Whipping cream to soft peaks (not stiff) gave the right texture.

Healthier Ways to Make Mary Berry 3-Layer Victoria Sponge

• Use light butter or margarine instead of full-fat butter.
• Reduce sugar by 10–15%.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of cream for a lighter filling.
• Swap jam for mashed fresh fruit.

Ingredient Substitutions for Mary Berry 3-Layer Victoria Sponge

• Self-raising flour → 300g plain flour + 2 tsp baking powder.
• Butter → Margarine or dairy-free spread for a lighter option.
• Jam → Lemon curd or berry compote for variation.
• Cream → Mascarpone mixed with a little icing sugar.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve With Victoria Sponge

• Earl Grey tea – Classic British pairing.
• Fresh strawberries – Adds freshness.
• Clotted cream – For extra indulgence.
• Lemon curd drizzle – Enhances flavour.
• Iced coffee – Perfect for summer.

Expert Tips for 3-Layer Victoria Sponge Success

• Weigh batter evenly – Ensures consistent layers.
• Don’t overmix – Keeps sponge light.
• Check early – Avoid overbaking.
• Cool completely – Prevents cream from melting.
• Use good-quality jam – Makes a difference in taste.
• Store in a cool place – Keeps texture soft.

Creative Ways to Customize 3-Layer Victoria Sponge

• Add fresh fruit slices between layers.
• Flavour the sponge with lemon zest or orange essence.
• Replace cream with buttercream frosting.
• Decorate the top with berries and mint leaves.
• Make it festive with a chocolate drizzle or edible flowers.

Storing 3-Layer Victoria Sponge the Right Way

• Store in an airtight container in a cool place for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate if filled with fresh cream (consume within 24 hours).
• Freeze unfilled sponges for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat Victoria Sponge (If Needed)

• Microwave method – Warm individual slices for 10 seconds to refresh.
• Oven method – Heat the unfilled sponge at 140°C for 5 minutes to revive the texture.
• From frozen – Defrost at room temperature before filling.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

• Calories: ~430 kcal
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 25g
• Fibre: 1g
• Sugar: 30g

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FAQs

How do you get even layers in a 3-layer Victoria sponge?

To get even layers, weigh the cake batter equally into each tin before baking. Level the surface with a spatula so all three layers rise uniformly.

How do you keep a Victoria sponge moist?

Avoid overbaking and measure ingredients accurately. Adding a tablespoon of milk or baking the cakes slightly under golden ensures a soft, moist crumb.

Can you make the sponge layers in advance?

Yes, you can bake the sponge layers up to two days in advance. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in cling film and store at room temperature until ready to assemble.

What is the best filling for a 3-layer Victoria sponge?

A classic combination of whipped double cream and strawberry jam works best. You can also use buttercream or lemon curd for a flavour twist.

Wrapping It Up

Mary Berry’s 3-Layer Victoria Sponge is an elevated take on a British classic. With its soft sponge, layers of cream and jam, and elegant presentation, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any celebration. Simple to bake yet impressive to serve, this recipe combines timeless tradition with irresistible taste — a true Mary Berry masterpiece.