There's a common misconception that the most famous dessert to ever come from the U.K. is pudding, and while the Royal family might have the best recipe for it, it's certainly not the only dish that is worthy of a sweet reputation. The U.K. has many claims to fame when it comes to satisfying a person's sweet tooth and many of them are unknown outside of Europe. Sticky toffee pudding is certainly an exception to the pudding rule but that's not the only dessert you'll find on the menu when you travel abroad.
At the center of Britain's core - one that's likely covered in toffee and topped with fruit - are these desserts that have been part of the tradition for decades, and some, for centuries. If you have the chance to visit and indulge in any number of these sweets then we highly recommend it... but don't just take our word for it, have a look for yourself!
Jam Roly-Poly
In some parts of the world, this is referred to as a jelly roll but in the U.K., it's called a jam roly-poly. This cutely-named dish consists of a sponge caked that's rolled with jam in the middle, as the name implies, and is often served with school lunches. For many in the U.K., it's a nostalgic dish that brings back memories of childhood. It's often served with warm custard.
Knickerbocker Glory
One trend you'll notice about U.K. desserts is that their names are usually tied to the history of the dish or a common British saying or slang. Knickerbocker glory was first created in the 1930s and is essentially an ice cream sundae that's layered rather than having all the toppings spooned over the top as they would be in the U.S.
Syllabub
Syllabub has been around for centuries and the earliest-known record of it goes back to the 16th century, where it was served in the form of a drink initially. Nowadays, it's rare to find as it's been somewhat phased out but if you do find it, it usually consists of a creamy fluff, lemon juice, wine, and a fruit topping. Its flavor is light yet decadent, but altogether a unique experience.
Fruit Fool
This dessert is one of the simplest that comes from the U.K. At the base of this dish is a generous helping of custard or for a lighter version, whipped cream. On top of that, a scoop of mixed berries can be found, along with rhubarb. It's also incredibly easy to make and it's still made to this day with varying interpretations, including different fruit mixes and flavored custards or whipped cream. It's also quite visually stunning as the centerpiece on a table despite the fact that it consists, really, of two ingredients.
Banoffee Pie
Since the 1970s, this pie has had a reputation in the U.K. as one of the best combinations of fruit and toffee ever created. That's not to say that it's popular with everyone - those who don't enjoy bananas or feel that toffee should remain untainted by fruit probably won't take to this vintage dessert. However, this pie is somewhat of a sweet culinary staple in terms of the U.K.'s most original desserts and it's still served in restaurants across the region today.
Eton Mess
Commonly misheard as 'eatin' mess,' this dessert is somewhat of mess but is created that way intentionally. A favorite of the Royal family, rumor has it that Eton College is responsible for the name and creation of this dish - as it's said that someone once dropped a strawberry-topped meringue and served it anyway, hence the unique name. Therefore, the dessert consists of broken pieces of meringue, strawberries, and whipped cream.
Sticky Toffee Pudding
It's true that we said we wouldn't mention pudding but sticky toffee pudding is truly a dessert in its own right, aside from the fact that the name 'pudding' is in its name. Toffee is one of the most beloved flavors in the U.K. and anyone will tell you that it's a staple in nearly any sweet dish. This brown sugar-butter combination is sweet, sticky, and delightfully indulgent, and its addition to a dense, cake-like base is nothing short of dreamy.
Treacle Tart
Some people might be wondering why treacle tart sounds so familiar and if you're a Harry Potter fan, then that might be why. A favorite of the main character, treacle tart consists of a syrup-sweetened base with a crust that's slightly savory, flaky, and the perfect balance to a sweet and chewy filling.