7 Classic British Desserts To Try In London

If you’re in London and love desserts, here’s a quick list of 7 must-try British classics. These timeless treats combine rich flavors and history, served in some of the city’s best spots:

Sticky Toffee Pudding: Moist sponge cake with dates and warm toffee sauce.
Eton Mess: Crushed meringue, whipped cream, and strawberries.
Treacle Tart: Buttery pastry filled with golden syrup and breadcrumbs.
Victoria Sponge Cake: Airy sponge layers with cream and strawberry jam.
Banoffee Pie: Bananas, toffee, and whipped cream in a decadent pie.
Bakewell Tart: Shortcrust pastry with raspberry jam and almond frangipane.
Trifle: Layers of sponge cake, fruit, custard, and whipped cream.

From cozy tea rooms to upscale restaurants, London offers both traditional and modern twists on these desserts. Whether you prefer indulgent puddings or light and fruity treats, there’s something for everyone. Check out places like Fortnum & Mason, The Wolseley, or Ottolenghi for some of the best versions.

Ready to indulge? Keep reading to discover where to find these iconic desserts and tips for enjoying them at their best.

Britain's Favourite Dessert Recipes | The F Word

1. Sticky Toffee Pudding

Sticky toffee pudding is a beloved British dessert made with a moist sponge cake filled with dates and topped with a rich, warm toffee sauce. The dates are softened in hot water, creating a sweet paste that adds depth to the cake batter. Combined with butter, brown sugar, and eggs, the batter becomes light and flavorful.

The toffee sauce is a simple mix of butter, heavy cream, and dark brown sugar, heated together until smooth and velvety. This indulgent topping pairs perfectly with the date-filled sponge, making it a favorite treat in London. You'll find it served everywhere, from cozy tea rooms to high-end restaurants.

2. Eton Mess

If you're looking for something lighter after enjoying Sticky Toffee Pudding, Eton Mess is a perfect choice. This classic British dessert combines just three simple ingredients: crushed meringue, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries. The magic happens when the meringue is gently folded into the cream, with strawberries added for a burst of flavor.

In London, you can try delicious takes on Eton Mess at places like The Wolseley in Mayfair or Fortnum & Mason's Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, where each venue adds its own flair to this beloved treat.

3. Treacle Tart

Treacle tart is a beloved British dessert with a rich history. It features a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with a mix of golden syrup and breadcrumbs. The golden syrup brings a caramel-like sweetness, while the breadcrumbs create a slightly chewy texture. When served warm, the filling takes on a smooth, honey-like consistency.

For a taste of tradition, visit The Goring Hotel in Belgravia, known for its classic take on this dessert. Another great option is Rules restaurant in Covent Garden, where they pair their treacle tart with vanilla bean ice cream, creating a delightful hot-and-cold combination. This dessert is a testament to London's knack for turning simple recipes into unforgettable treats.

4. Victoria Sponge Cake

This iconic British dessert, named after Queen Victoria, features two airy sponge layers filled with cream and strawberry jam.

At Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly, you’ll find a classic version served during their afternoon tea. It combines a buttery sponge with a generous layer of strawberry preserve. Over in Belgravia, Peggy Porschen adds a touch of elegance with a delicate sponge and perfectly balanced cream and jam. Meanwhile, The Wolseley in Mayfair offers a nod to tradition with a soft sponge lightly dusted with powdered sugar - an ideal choice for afternoon tea.

Check with your chosen venue for serving times to enjoy it at its freshest.

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5. Banoffee Pie

Banoffee Pie is a beloved British dessert that brings together bananas, toffee, and whipped cream in a deliciously indulgent combination. You’ll find this treat served in both traditional bakeries and stylish tearooms across London. Notable spots to try include the famous Dominique Ansel Bakery in Belgravia and Maison Bertaux in Soho.

6. Bakewell Tart

The Bakewell Tart is a classic dessert with a shortcrust pastry base, a layer of raspberry jam, almond frangipane, and a topping of sliced almonds. It’s a delicious combination of buttery pastry, sweet fruit, and nutty almond flavors.

At Ottolenghi in Notting Hill, you’ll find a modern twist on this classic. Their version uses house-made raspberry preserves and almond frangipane packed with toasted almonds. The result? A perfect blend of crisp pastry and rich, flavorful filling.

For a more traditional take, head to the tearoom at Fortnum & Mason in central London. Their Bakewell Tart stays true to its roots with raspberry jam, smooth almond frangipane, and perfectly toasted almonds.

When enjoying this dessert, look for a golden pastry base, a generous layer of jam, light almond frangipane, and a scattering of toasted almonds. For more dessert recommendations, check out London Best Eats.

7. Trifle

Trifle is a classic dessert made with layers of sherry-soaked sponge cake, fruit, custard, and whipped cream. Typically served in a glass bowl, its distinct layers create a visually appealing presentation.

The traditional recipe includes sponge cake soaked in sherry, seasonal fruits or preserves, creamy vanilla custard, and freshly whipped cream. Optional toppings like toasted nuts or candied fruit can be added for extra flavor and texture. While the dish is steeped in history, modern versions often put a fresh spin on the layered design.

This dessert beautifully blends tradition with contemporary creativity. For more British dessert experiences, check out London Best Eats.

How to Find the Best Desserts in London

Hunting for the tastiest British desserts in London? A little know-how can go a long way. London Best Eats offers a handy directory of bakeries, cafés, and restaurants to help you discover both iconic treats and hidden gems. Once you’ve got your dessert wishlist, here’s how to track them down.

Best Times to Visit

Many dessert spots in London change their menus with the seasons to feature fresh, local ingredients. These updates not only highlight seasonal flavors but also affect availability, so it’s smart to check ahead before planning your visit.

Here are a few quick tips to streamline your search online:

Browse by Area: Focus on specific neighborhoods for convenient options.
Check Reviews: Look for places with strong ratings and plenty of feedback.
Verify Hours: Double-check opening times to avoid disappointment.

Seasonal Highlights

British desserts often reflect the time of year, with menus showcasing seasonal ingredients. Here’s a quick guide to what you might find:

Spring: Berry trifles and Victoria sponge cakes with fresh fruits.
Summer: Eton mess with strawberries and other light, fruit-based treats.
Fall: Sticky toffee pudding and apple-infused desserts.
Winter: Treacle tarts and hearty puddings to warm you up.

Pro Tips

Sign up for newsletters to get updates on seasonal offerings.
Reserve a table in advance for popular spots, especially during busy times.
Visit between 2-5 PM for a quieter experience.
Ask about dessert-only menus or afternoon tea options for a special treat.

Exploring London’s dessert scene is a fun adventure that changes with the seasons. With these tips, you’ll be ready to uncover your next favorite indulgence in the city.

Summary

These seven desserts highlight the rich history of British sweets, each offering a taste of tradition. From the warm, date-filled Sticky Toffee Pudding for chilly nights to the refreshing Eton Mess ideal for summer, these dishes reflect both flavor and London's evolving food culture.

The Victoria Sponge and Bakewell Tart emphasize the charm of simple ingredients, while Banoffee Pie proves that newer recipes can honor classic roots. Don’t miss the Treacle Tart with its golden syrup filling or the beautifully layered Trifle - both are iconic choices.

Whether it’s your first time in London or a return visit, these desserts provide a delicious glimpse into British culinary history. Each one tells a story of London's dessert heritage.