The best supermarket Victoria sponges for Bake Off cheats, put to the taste test

Reportedly Queen Victoria’s favourite cake, this humble sponge sandwich with a jam and buttercream filling remains a pantry staple.

But are shop-bought “cheat” options worth serving up to friends as you gather to watch Bake Off – or are you better off arming yourself with a mixing bowl and spatula to make your own?

More Food

£5.39, Ocado (serves 4-5)

With a majestic rise, golden- brown top and thick layer of solid buttercream (it could do with more jam), this cake looks home-made. Top with berries to seal the deal.

8/10

Sainsbury’s TTD

£2.75, Sainsbury's (serves 6)

This flat, rather sad-looking, sludgy sponge has barely any cream filling – though the raspberry jam is delicious, tart and tangy. It looks far from home-made, with little to no rise.

6/10

Marks & Spencer

£2.80, M&S (serves 6)

With a rustic, cracked top, this offering boasts a creamy, soft layer of vanilla buttercream with distinctive strawberry jam. The crumbly, feather-light sponge is good for sharing over a brew.

7/10

Waitrose 1

£3.89, Waitrose (serves 10)

The best looking, with an oozing, appetising jam and an even quantity of buttercream. It has a grainy, textured top, copiously dusted with sugar. A real treat.

9/10

Booths

£2.85, Booths (serves 6)

The bounciest, fluffiest sponge and a light-brown, caramelised exterior. It falls apart on the fork, and isn’t too sweet. 

8/10