Vicky Smith Q&A

One of the best things about the Cake and Bake Show is how it finds really talented home bakers. Last year’s winner Vicky is entirely self-taught, and by her own admission ‘just plays around and sees what works’. We caught up with her to squirrel out some top baking tips for you….

Who taught you to bake? Mum used to bake, but I kind of learned from books and now the internet. It’s at your fingertips with google. I love experimenting with new things and flavours, and then adding my own twist.

How did you learn the techniques you use? Trial and error mostly! You Tube is very good for tutorials.

What’s your speciality when it comes to baking? It’s probably capturing realism. Making a 3D cake and making people look twice is fun.

What’s your favourite thing to bake? For taste and flavour, my lemon and poppyseed cupcakes topped with meringue and filled with lemon curd. The thing I dislike most is decorating in fondant – I’m too much of a perfectionist.

Where do you find your inspiration? I start by researching, looking at pictures, playing around with what others have done, then imagine something creative but different – and usually over the top! In my opinion, you can never have too much of a good thing where cake is concerned.

Oh Vicky, we couldn’t agree with you more! Check out her recipes for some incredible cupcakes below:

Coconut and Lime Kiwi Cupcakes by Vicky Smith

Rose and Turkish Delight Strawberry Cupcakes

Chocolate, Banana and Tia Maria Cupcakes