ON YOUR MARKS, GET SET, BAKE!

The Great British Bake Off is my idea of perfect TV. The technical challenges leave me biting my nails in anticipation and the showstoppers take my breath away. I almost cried when one contestant's creme brulee curdled, gasped in amazement at a gingerbread Colosseum and drooled with envy at a lavender and apple tart tatin. I can't wait to try these recipes; the inventiveness of the bakers astounds me every week. What also astounds me is that Mary Berry is 77 and still baking. I hope I continue to do something I love into my old age (and look as good doing it!)

{photo from BBC Food}

Since I've been back at University my own baking adventures have stretched to a reliable favourite of lemon drizzle cake, and a very indulgent and wicked newcomer. Most people I've talked to seem to have heard of this Nirvana of baking delight. Slutty brownies are so called because they are ridiculously easy to make...and most people would do anything to get one! I first discovered the recipe on one of my favourite blogs The Londoner and have been eager to try it ever since, but only recently have I given in to sinfully chocolately temptation. They are gooey, sticky bites of scrumptiousness and you feel very naughty after a few mouthfuls, especially as they are so easy to make. Buy cookie dough mix, follow instructions, layer into a tray. Place Oreos on top. Buy brownie mix, follow instructions, pour over Oreos. Bake for 30 mins. Done. I know, this isn't really proper baking for all you purists out there reading this in disgust, but they are SO GOOD. Every now and again a girl needs a little bit of indulgence to get her through the trials and tribulations of modern day life. 

{photos from The Londoner}

My own attempt

I find baking is strangely therapeutic, and I get a huge sense of satisfaction from making something that people can't wait to eat. Consequently, my housemate and I have decided to try and bake at least once a week. Next on the list: this gorgeous little number from another of my favourite blogs The Perfect Bake, written by my old University Netball club captain. Her chocolate and stem ginger Rocky Roads look heavenly. I can't wait to try the combination of dark chocolate, ginger and biscuity crispness. Yum.

{photos by Charlotte Page from The Perfect Bake}