Blackcurrant Bakewell Slices

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Certainly! Here’s a big, detailed recipe for a Blackcurrant Twist on Mary Berry’s Bakewell Slices, complete with history, formation, full method, romantic conclusion, and more. 🍇🍰

Blackcurrant Bakewell Slices: A Romantic Culinary Classic with a Berry Twist

Introduction

Bakewell Slices, a variation of the iconic British Bakewell Tart, are a beloved tea-time treat that have graced many family tables since the 19th century. Traditionally filled with raspberry jam, frangipane (almond sponge), and topped with flaked almonds, this version takes a delightful turn by introducing blackcurrant jam, which adds a tart-sweet vibrancy that elevates the original.

Infused with tradition, elegance, and a touch of romance, this recipe is not just about baking – it’s about crafting a slice of history with a fresh burst of modern flavor. Whether you’re baking for a Sunday picnic, an afternoon tea, or someone you love, these Blackcurrant Bakewell Slices are sure to leave a lasting impression.

A Brief History of the Bakewell

The Bakewell Tart originated in the town of Bakewell, Derbyshire, in the 1800s. Legend tells of a kitchen mistake – a cook misunderstood instructions and instead of mixing jam into a pudding, spread it atop the pastry before adding a frangipane mixture. The result? A happy accident that led to the invention of the Bakewell Tart.

Over time, variations like the Bakewell Slice emerged – a rectangular, traybake-friendly version perfect for sharing. By replacing raspberry jam with blackcurrant, we honour the original while embracing creativity.

Ingredients

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

  • 175g (6oz) plain flour
  • 75g (3oz) cold butter, diced
  • 2–3 tbsp cold water

For the Filling:

  • 4–5 tbsp blackcurrant jam
  • 100g (3½oz) soft butter
  • 100g (3½oz) caster sugar
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 100g (3½oz) ground almonds
  • 25g (1oz) plain flour
  • ½ tsp almond extract (optional)

For the Topping:

  • 50g (2oz) flaked almonds
  • Icing sugar, for dusting (optional)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry

  1. Place the flour in a mixing bowl and rub in the butter using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
  2. Add water a little at a time until the dough just comes together.
  3. Knead briefly, shape into a disc, wrap in cling film, and chill for 20–30 minutes.

Step 2: Blind-Bake the Base

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas Mark 4.
  2. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface and line a 20x30cm (8x12in) rectangular baking tin.
  3. Prick the base with a fork, line with baking parchment, and fill with baking beans.
  4. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the parchment and beans, and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Add the Jam

  • Spread the blackcurrant jam evenly over the warm pastry base. Let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Frangipane

  1. Beat together the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.
  2. Gradually add the eggs, beating well.
  3. Fold in the ground almonds, flour, and almond extract.
  4. Spoon the mixture over the jam and smooth the surface.

Step 5: Top and Bake

  • Sprinkle the flaked almonds on top.
  • Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the sponge is golden and firm to the touch.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

  • Let it cool in the tin. Dust with icing sugar if desired.
  • Slice into squares or bars.

Formation: Layers of Love

Each layer in this slice tells a story:

  • The shortcrust pastry is the steady base – dependable, crisp, and strong, like the foundation of any great love.
  • The blackcurrant jam is bold and tart – the spark, the passion, the surprise.
  • The almond sponge is the comforting embrace – soft, sweet, and warm.
  • The flaked almonds are the flourish – the delicate details that make it all worthwhile.

For the Lovers

Baking is often best when shared. Picture this: a lazy Sunday, tea gently steaming in porcelain cups, and you and your partner sharing a plate of Blackcurrant Bakewell Slices.
You bake together – one stirring the sponge, the other rolling the dough.
The kitchen filled with laughter, flour on your noses, a quiet kiss before the tray goes in the oven.

These slices aren’t just dessert. They’re an edible love letter.

Conclusion

Mary Berry may have crafted the quintessential Bakewell Slice, but the Blackcurrant Twist gives it a new chapter in its storied past. With its balance of buttery base, rich almond filling, and zingy jam, this recipe is perfect for those who crave tradition with a touch of rebellion.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker, a first-time explorer, or a romantic in search of shared sweetness, this recipe promises warmth, comfort, and delight – one lovingly baked slice at a time.

Would you like a printable PDF version of this recipe or a gluten-free variation?

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