After grabbing our attention on The Great British Bake Off, it seems the world is Sandro Farmhouse’s oyster — or perhaps chocolate cake might be more apt, given the sweet treat he bakes for Attitude during his Active feature shoot. While preparing the spongy delight and teaching us how to decorate a showstopper, Sandro talked defying labels and stereotypes and revealed what’s next for him.
When did you start baking?
I started early on with my mum in the kitchen, but I did less of the baking and more licking the spoon. I was always excited. I was there for the spoon and definitely the laughter. My mum would always bake cakes that you can have with your tea or coffee. It would be a Madeira or chocolate cake — no filling, no frosting, just a simple, easy cake. When my dad died when I was 21, I found myself baking again as a response to the loss, and the magic began there.
Were there any bakers or chefs who inspired you besides your mum?
I’m a big fan of Mary Berry. I learned a lot from her, like how royalty!
