This Chocolate Victoria Sandwich follows the same principle as the traditional Victoria sponge, but with added cocoa powder for a chocolatey variation. The sponges are soft, airy, and moist, sandwiched together with chocolate buttercream or cream filling. Mary Berry’s version uses the all-in-one mixing method, making it quick, easy, and foolproof — ideal for home bakers who love classic flavours with a rich twist.
175g self-raising flour
175g caster sugar
175g unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
40g cocoa powder
1½ tsp baking powder
2 tbsp milk
150g unsalted butter, softened
300g icing sugar, sifted
2 tbsp cocoa powder
1–2 tbsp milk
Optional: 2 tbsp chocolate spread for a glossy texture
For decoration:
Icing sugar or cocoa for dusting
Grated chocolate or curls (optional)
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease and line two 20cm sandwich tins with baking parchment.
Add the flour, sugar, butter, eggs, cocoa, baking powder, and milk into a large mixing bowl. Beat together using an electric whisk for about 1 minute until smooth and well combined.
Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared tins. Smooth the tops with a spatula for an even bake.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cakes are springy to the touch and a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean.
Leave the sponges to cool in the tins for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before filling.
Beat the butter until light and creamy. Add sifted icing sugar and cocoa gradually, mixing well. Add milk to reach a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Place one sponge on a serving plate. Spread half of the buttercream evenly over it. Place the second sponge on top and spread the remaining buttercream over the top or leave it plain with a dusting of icing sugar.
For a finishing touch, dust lightly with cocoa or icing sugar. Garnish with grated chocolate if desired.