As we reach week seven of series six, you probably think that you’ve seen it all on Bake Off, but prepare to be flabbergasted. Unfurl your cummerbunds and loosen your stays – it’s Victorian week.
This is the week to celebrate the majesty that is Mary, the gloriously victorious queen of baking, and to consort on the casting of a Hollywood Prince Albert. Ring in the new with this Bake Off first.
We’re starting with a signature challenge of game pies. There appears to be no vegetarian option today, so the bakers are packing fleshy chunks into hot water crusts.
Much to Mary’s dismay, Paul J has opted for a tin with smooth sides. She describes it as ‘the modern version’ and can hardly contain her disdain. He tells Mary that he is decorating the pie simply with pastry leaves. Mary dips her head in search of the nearest spittoon.
Mat is nearer the mark with a tin authentically marked 1850. It’s acquired via his mate, Dangerous Dave, from Dave’s mum Sheila. This is a tin with a history.
With her customary contradictory composure, Flora masks any nerves with an air of nonchalance. Carefully enunciating her ingredients, she adds that her decoration will be a laaa-tice. Flora tells us that her pie needs to be well filled because it shrinks. As she closes the oven door, she tells us that her pie is too full.