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Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- General
- Daily Mirror
Mary Berry's 'easiest ever' chocolate cake recipe takes just 5 minutes to prepare
The beloved queen of British baking has shared what she calls her 'easiest ever' chocolate cake recipe. If you're craving something sweet but don't have the time - or patience - for a complicated bake, Mary Berry has you covered. The beloved queen of British baking has shared what she calls her 'easiest ever' chocolate cake recipe, and the best part? It takes just five minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake int he oven. Whether you're a beginner baker or just in a hurry, this foolproof recipe delivers rich, chocolatey goodness with minimal effort. Featured on BBC Good Food, this straightforward chocolate cake has earned 108 four-star reviews and serves eight to 10 people, making it perfect for any social gathering. Plus, it requires less than half an hour of preparation time and bakes in the oven at 180C or 160C Fan for under 30 minutes. The website states: "Using her preferred all-in-one method, Mary's easiest ever chocolate cake recipe is simply filled with cream and jam. This is a light and airy chocolate cake for those who don't like it too rich. It's a great base for whipped cream and fresh fruit or jam." Ingredients For the cake: 225g unsalted butter, softened 225g caster sugar Four free-range eggs 220g self-raising flour 1tsp baking powder 50g cocoa powder For the filling: 4tbsp apricot jam, or any jam of choice. 300ml whipping cream, softly whipped. Method 1. To start, lightly butter two loose-bottomed sandwich tins and line them with baking parchment to avoid sticking. The Mary's recipe recommends using 20cm tins or eight inches, which is a standard cake tin size. the butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder and cocoa powder in a large bowl and beat for two minutes, or until just blended. The recipe suggests using an electric mixer for this step, but a wooden spoon will suffice. 3. Distribute the mixture evenly between the tins. Flatten the surface using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Creating a slight dip in the middle can also promote an even bake. 4. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until fully cooked. The recipe indicates that the tops of the cakes should spring back when lightly touched with a finger. 5. Once baked, select the cake with the best top and place the other one top down onto a serving plate. Spread your chosen jam and whipped cream onto the cake before placing the other cake on top. You can also decorate with more cream, or fruit such as strawberries or raspberries. The layers of the chocolate sponge cake can be frozen for a month if they are unfilled and properly wrapped in clingfilm. When you're ready to use the cake, allow it to defrost at room temperature before unwrapping and filling it with your chosen ingredients.
BBC News
13-07-2025
- Health
- BBC News
Which Bread be di healthiest to chop?
For many pipo, bread na necessary evil. E be one of di foods wey pipo dey chop pass worldwide. For dis part of di world, e dey act as pairing wit plenti tins but pipo dey like look am wit side eye say e no dey healthy. Infact many pipo wey wan lose weight, di first tin dem go tell demselves na make we comot bread from our diet. But bread get plenti types and while dia be some wey be say get plenti sugar and no dey make pipo gain weight, odas dey wey studies show say dey help reduce Body Mass Index (BMI) and belle fat. Nutritionist Jenna Hope tell BBC Good Food say "different type breads dey linked wit different health benefits". Ultra-processed bread? For di late 1950s, scientists for one of di Chorleywood factory for di UK develop way to produce dough faster dan bifor. Dem add hard fats, addtional yeasts and chemicals like enzymes, oxidants (to strengthen di dough) and emulsifiers (wey go help di oda chemicals combine), bifor dem mix dia ingredients for high speed. Dis new technique make am quicker and cheaper to make bread wit Britain wheat wey get low-protein. Dis extra addition like di emulsifiers give di bread longer shelf life too, wey be why today, dem dey use di Chorleywood method take make 80% of di bread wey we dey chop. Many of di breads wey dey supermarket wey dem dey use di Chorleywood method make dey referred to as Ultra Processed food. Dem no be any exact defination for ultra processed food but many academics advise sat if di food get five or more ingredients plus including ingredients wey you no get inside kitchen, e likely be UPF. Foods wey be UPFs dey normally dey linked wit plenti health conditions but researchers say e no make sense to just join all of dem togeda see as enenmy, dis na bicos of di way di foods dem dey call UPFs dey mix-mix different food groups togeda. Wholegrain bread For you to fit understand wetin we go tok about di bread make we first explain wheat grains give you. Wheat grains get plenti layers, like id germ wey dem dey call di embryo of di wheat; e dey rich in protein, di outeer shell wey dem dey call bran and di starch endosperm wey dey store food for the embryo. For normal bread dem dey only use di endosperm of di grain but di whole grain dey use all di grain wey get polyphenols (a group of chemicals with antioxidant properties), essential nutrients like vitamin E, folate and magnesium, as well as fibre, protein and healthy fats and na wia all im health benefits dey come from. Di health benefits include: Sourdough Sourdough na one of di bread wey dey take long time to bake. BBC Melissa Hogenboom tok say wen she make am, "di entire process from activating my starter - wey be wen you mix am wit flour and water and water for am to wake - to wen I comot di bread from oven, fit take reach 36 hours". Basically ehn, di ingredients for sourdough na flour, salt and water wey dem mix wit sourdough starter (mixture of bacteria and yeast) wey dey act as natural raising agent. Pipo wey don chop am like di taste but e also get health benefits. Healthier White Bread White bread na one of di most popular type of bread for world even though e no get di nutritional value of di wholegrain but researchers dey try change am. Dem don create new wholemeal bread wey tast and look like white bread. Di plan na to enrich di bread wit small peas, beans and various cereals togeda wit di bran and wheat germ wey dem dey comot for white bread flour. but one of di researchers, Catherine Howarth of Aberystwyth University tok for 2024 say na "delicate balancing act". Dis na as di team dey add oda grains wey get plenti nutirients like teff, sorghum and millet plus quinoa. Dem aslo dey reason Green peas and chickpeas for extra protein. Di bread fit take anoda two years bifor e coot. How to choose beta healthy bread
Scotsman
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Best Scottish Ice Cream 2025: Here's the only Scottish ice cream parlour to have been named one of the 24 best in Britain
Britain's best ice cream spots have been named - but only one Scottish venue made the cut. Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Now here's a scoop... With another heatwave in the post, BBC Good Food has put together a handy list of the best ice cream parlours across the UK. Introducing the list, the publication's food experts said: 'The UK is home to a host of artisan ice cream parlours and historic gelaterias, each offering unique flavours and experiences. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Whether you're after bold, contemporary flavours or nostalgic classics, we've rounded up the ice cream shops that showcase the best of British ice cream craft, perfect for indulging your sweet tooth.' In total, BBC Good Food has selected 24 ice cream parlours – but only one Scottish venue has made the cut. Coming in at No.6 on the list is Edinburgh's own Alandas Gelato. In its description of this much-loved spot, BBC Good Food writes: 'Located on Edinburgh's historic Forrest Road, the shiny gelato parlour combines Scottish ingredients with Italian craftsmanship, churning Scottish cream and milk from East Lothian into gelato in its on-site micro-factory. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Alandas's gelato is served in waffle cones, cups or shakes, and ranges in flavour from lavender & white chocolate ganache, to cranachan and Scottish whiskey & caramel. There's also hot Belgian chocolate on tap, supplying the creamiest hot chocolates around.' Topping the list is Jack's Gelato in Cambridge. BBC Good Food says: 'This sleek Cambridge-based gelato parlour is renowned for its queues, but it's worth joining them. Serving inventive flavours made in small batches, ingredients are carefully considered, like coffee beans from Essex-based The Coffee Officina or Pump Street chocolate in the stracciatella.' Alandas gelato | Only one Scottish ice cream parlour made BBC Good Food's list BBC Good Food's list of the best ice cream parlours in the UK: 1 - Jack's Gelato, Cambridge 2 - Gelato Gusto, Brighton 3 - Moomaid of Zennor, St Ives 4 - Morelli's, Broadstairs 5 - Swoon, Cardiff 6 - Alandas Gelato, Edinburgh 7 - Morelli's, Belfast 8 - Caliendo's Gelato, London 9 - Darlish, St Albans and Hatfield 10 - Ginger's Comfort Emporium, Manchester 11 - Joe's Ice cream, Swansea (and other locations) 12 - Snugburys, Cheshire 13 - Jolly Nice, Gloucestershire 14 - Cadwaladers, Cardiff (and other locations) 15 - Ruby Violet, London 16 - Harbour Bar, Scarborough 17 - Gelupo, London 18 - Krum Gelato, Chester 19 - The Little Ice Cream Shop, Cumbria 20 - Romeo & Giulietta, London 21 - Heavenly Chocolate Emporium, Carmarthenshire 22 - La Gelatiera, London 23 - Glaslyn, Snowdonia
Wales Online
03-07-2025
- Business
- Wales Online
One of Wales' best ice cream shops closes suddenly
One of Wales' best ice cream shops closes suddenly Swoon is an award-winning gelato parlour and the one in Cardiff has been recently named as one of the best in the UK After being named one of the best in the UK the ice cream shop has closed its doors (Image: Richard Swingler ) A popular ice cream parlour in Cardiff has closed after being named as one of the best in the UK. Swoon, formerly situated in Duke Street Arcade across from Cardiff Castle, has shut its doors with no plan of reopening. The gelato chain has stores across England and opened its first shop in Wales in the city centre in 2023. Recently featuring on the BBC Good Food's list of the best ice cream parlours in the UK Swoon in Cardiff was commended for its Italian-influenced flavours and seasonal specials that "lure regulars back in." An employee at Swoon confirmed the closure of the Cardiff store saying "there are no plans to reopen it". Never miss a Cardiff story by signing up to our daily newsletter here See pictures of what Swoon looked like when it first opened in Cardiff here. The store opened in Cardiff in 2023 (Image: Richard Swingler ) Swoon has ice cream parlours in Bath, Bristol, and London. Article continues below Featuring 11 staple flavours on their menu as well as changing seasonal flavours Swoon was a popular choice on a hot day in the Welsh capital. As well as artisan gelato Swoon served a variety of cakes, desserts, and Italian coffees. BBC Good Food named five ice creams shops in Wales amongst the best in the UK. They were: Swoon Joe's Cadwaladers Glaslyn Heavenly Chocolate Emporium Pat Powell and her brother Bruno Forte founded Swoon in 2016 (Image: Swoon ) Swoon was also named by food critic Renae Smith, talking to Daily Mail, as one of the best in the UK. Article continues below She chose the amarena cherry cheesecake flavour and said it was "tart, sweet, decadent, dangerously addictive." Now the freezers lay bare with the tables stacked inside the shop in Cardiff.
Time Business News
03-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Is Ceremonial Cacao Really Good for You? A Deep Dive into its True Health Benefits
Ceremonial cacao has surged in popularity as more individuals seek natural, holistic alternatives for mental clarity, emotional well-being and physical vitality. Originating from ancient Mesoamerican and South American traditions, this powerful superfood has found its way into modern wellness circles. But is ceremonial cacao really good for you? In this comprehensive guide, we explore its health benefits, spiritual roots, and how brands like Cacao Adventures are honouring tradition while bringing premium ceremonial cacao to conscious consumers worldwide. Ceremonial cacao is made from 100% pure cacao paste, derived from heirloom cacao beans, minimally processed to preserve its potent bioactive compounds. Unlike commercial chocolate, it contains no additives, refined sugars or dairy. Its preparation and consumption are rooted in centuries-old ceremonies among indigenous communities in Central and South America. Today, premium producers such as Cacao Adventures ensure their ceremonial cacao is sustainably sourced, ethically traded, and stone-ground to preserve its integrity and spirit, offering a product as close to the original tradition as possible. Ceremonial cacao is dense in vital nutrients and compounds beneficial to both body and mind: Magnesium – Supports muscle function, heart health, and relaxation. – Supports muscle function, heart health, and relaxation. Iron – Crucial for oxygen transport and cellular energy. – Crucial for oxygen transport and cellular energy. Zinc – Enhances immune function and wound healing. – Enhances immune function and wound healing. Flavanols – Potent antioxidants that reduce inflammation and improve circulation. – Potent antioxidants that reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Theobromine – A mild stimulant that improves energy, mood, and focus. Source: BBC Good Food: Health benefits of cacao – magnesium, iron, zinc and flavanols Ceremonial cacao promotes the natural release of dopamine, serotonin, and anandamide, resulting in feelings of euphoria and peace. The experience is often described as 'heart-opening,' especially when paired with meditation or breathwork. Thanks to its magnesium content and calming theobromine, ceremonial cacao can soothe the nervous system and ease anxiety. It offers gentle stimulation without the jitteriness associated with caffeine. The flavanols in ceremonial cacao have been clinically shown to reduce blood pressure and improve vascular health. With regular, mindful consumption, it may contribute to a healthier heart and enhanced blood flow. Theobromine acts as a natural stimulant and vasodilator, delivering oxygen and nutrients more efficiently throughout the body—perfect for pre-yoga sessions, dance, or light workouts. Users report a grounded yet elevated energy after consuming cacao, with no crashes or overstimulation. Ceremonial cacao plays a central role in heart-centred rituals designed to promote healing, connection and expanded consciousness. Traditionally used by Mayan and Aztec cultures, these ceremonies are now embraced globally by those seeking deeper self-awareness. While both come from the cacao bean, the difference is vast: Ceremonial Cacao Commercial Chocolate Pure cacao paste (no additives) Contains sugar, milk, emulsifiers Stone-ground, low-heat processed Highly processed and diluted Used in ritual and healing Used for flavour and snacking Cacao Adventures' ceremonial cacao is stone-ground and crafted to preserve its natural oils and therapeutic compounds, ensuring a deeply nourishing experience every time. In general, ceremonial cacao is safe and well-tolerated. However, because of its high theobromine content, it's advised to begin with a lower dose (around 20g) and increase slowly, particularly for those with sensitivity to stimulants or cardiovascular conditions. Cacao Adventures includes helpful guidance and dosage recommendations with every product, making it accessible for newcomers and seasoned practitioners alike. Crafting a sacred cacao drink is as much a ritual as it is nourishment: You'll need: 2 tablespoons ceremonial-grade cacao (chopped or in paste form) 1 cup hot water (not boiling—about 170°F works best to preserve nutrients) 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste—cayenne works too) Pinch of sea salt Optional: 1 teaspoon raw honey or agave Steps: Place 3-5 coins of Cacao Adventures Ceremonial Grade Cacao in a cup and cover them slightly with hot water, let it sit for one minute, then stir. Blend it together: In a small pot or blender, combine the cacao, hot water, cinnamon, chili, and salt. Stir over low heat until the cacao dissolves, or blend for a frothy texture (a nod to the froth prized in ancient recipes). A milk frother works great too. Taste and adjust: Add honey if you like a touch of sweetness, but go light—let the cacao shine. Set an intention: Before sipping, take a moment. In ceremonies, this is key—whether it's gratitude, clarity, or just savoring the moment. Ceremonial cacao isn't just good for you—it's also good for the planet when sourced responsibly. Cacao Adventures works closely with indigenous farming cooperatives, ensuring fair wages, biodiversity, and reforestation efforts. Every purchase supports not only your wellness but also the preservation of ancestral knowledge and ecological sustainability. Ceremonial cacao is a powerful ally for anyone seeking deeper physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. With its rich nutritional profile and ability to foster clarity and joy, it stands as a true superfood for the soul. Brands like Cacao Adventures are leading the way in delivering ethically sourced, energetically pure cacao to individuals and communities around the world. Whether for personal rituals or group ceremonies, their offerings allow us to connect more fully—with ourselves, each other, and the Earth. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
