The Great British Bake Off has become a cultural phenomenon, capturing the hearts and taste buds of audiences around the world. The show features amateur bakers competing in a series of challenges, from signature bakes to technical challenges, all under the watchful eye of the judges. Along the way, viewers get a taste of the delicious and creative recipes that the contestants come up with. Here are some of the most popular recipes from the show that you can try at home.

Victoria Sponge

The Victoria Sponge is a classic British cake that has been a favorite for generations. The recipe is simple but delicious, consisting of two layers of sponge cake filled with jam and whipped cream. To make the sponge cake, you will need:

• 225g self-raising flour
• 225g unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 225g caster sugar
• 4 medium eggs
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Strawberry jam, for filling
• Whipped cream, for filling

Preheat the oven to 180C/350F. Grease and line two 20cm/8in cake tins. In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and add the vanilla extract. Sift in the flour and baking powder, and fold in gently. Add the milk to loosen the mixture.

Divide the mixture between the two tins and smooth the surface. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. Leave to cool in the tins for a few minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

To assemble the cake, spread the jam over one of the sponges and top with whipped cream. Place the other sponge on top and dust with icing sugar.

Pecan and Maple Syrup Flapjacks

Flapjacks are a traditional British treat, similar to granola bars, made with oats, butter, and sugar. This recipe adds pecans and maple syrup for a delicious twist. To make the flapjacks, you will need:

• 225g unsalted butter
• 225g demerara sugar
• 225g rolled oats
• 100g pecans, chopped
• 100g golden syrup
• 50g maple syrup

Preheat the oven to 180C/350F. Grease and line a 20cm/8in square cake tin. In a pan, melt the butter, sugar, golden syrup, and maple syrup together over a low heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved.

In a bowl, mix together the oats and chopped pecans. Pour the melted mixture over the oats and stir until everything is combined.

Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin and press down firmly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Leave to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares and serve.

Sourdough Bread

Sourdough bread has become increasingly popular in recent years, and the Great British Bake Off has featured several challenges involving this delicious and nutritious bread. To make sourdough bread, you will need:

• 500g strong white bread flour
• 300g sourdough starter
• 10g salt
• 300ml warm water

In a bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sourdough starter. Gradually add the water, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-15 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.