Keeping your bake fresh: storage tips from the kitchen

Buttercream cakes are happiest in a cool room in their box, out of direct sunlight. The fridge dries sponge out and dulls the flavour, so only chill if the room is very warm or the filling contains fresh cream.

If you do refrigerate, take the cake out at least an hour before serving so the buttercream softens back up.

Giant cookies keep beautifully for three to four days in an airtight container. Ten seconds in the microwave brings back that just-baked gooey middle.

Tray bakes — brownies, millionaire's, flapjack — like an airtight tin at room temperature and are usually at their best on days two and three.

Leftover cake freezes well: wrap slices individually and they'll keep for a couple of months.