The Great British Bake Off Finale Party

As most of you will know, Tuesday marked the final episode of The Great British Bake Off and to celebrate, my mum decided to host a party. She invited some of her friends over and we all baked something to share. Unfortunately, the one opportunity I got to showcase my baking skills turned into a massive flop when my custard tarts came out like custard puddles - they were shallow, slightly sloggy and down right embarrassing, but it was all good fun and according to our very polite guests, they tasted good!

According to Paul Hollywood, putting the tray into some cold water will save any overcooked, failed attempt at custard tarts.

...Errrm.

Fortunately, there were a lot of other sweet treats laid out on the kitchen table that looked far more delectable. 

Strawberry and cream fruit scones made by Linda.

 Chocolate chip cookies made by Sarah, an Ed Kimber recipe (winner from series one of GBBO).

Saffron and coffee Opera cake made by my mum, inspired by Ruby's saffron and praline Opera cake.

Cinnamon roll cake made by Sarah - to.die.for.

But before we scoffed the lot, we sat in the living room to watch the final episode of this year's Bake Off.  

I didn't really want Frances to win... I thought Kimberly would, but my favourite from the start was Ruby. I bet all of their bakes taste amazing though, and it's just a TV programme. 

If you haven't already, check out Ruby's article which was published just after the final was broadcast. She is an exquisite writer and her blog is exceptional too.

Then it was time for tea and cake. I had been at an intense interview that day and this was just what I needed.

 

Sarah tucking into some Opera cake. Yummay.

The Opera cake was AH-MAZIN. I had three slices. I did. I had three slices. Just look at those layers. My mum's the best.

So pretty! And tasty. A cake filled with creamy, chocolatey, luxurious coffee and praline goodness.

This was the only photo I managed to get where my mum was in the shot (the blondie wearing the grey dress) and I had to put it up because she did such a fab job of hosting the party. I have tried to convince her to go on next year's bake off but she is completely resistant.

We were all VERY full by the end of the evening but the guests couldn't go home without some doggy bags filled with the leftover goodies. 

I love any excuse to make and eat cake, and the Great British Bake Off finale party was such a cute idea. My mum hosted one last year but I was living in Cheltenham then so this was my first. They are becoming somewhat of a tradition now, and I'm looking forward to next year's already.

Were you as hooked on GBBO as I was? Do you think the right baker won?