Prue: It's trifling but I cheat all the time when I cook

GREAT British Bake Off judge Prue Leith has admitted she cuts corners with her own puddings, even confessing "I cheat all the way".

- Mark Jefferies

Despite being a top cook, Prue, 84, says she can be lazy with her desserts.

She explained: "My family's favourite pud is trifle.

"But I cheat all the way. I spread slices of any leftover cake thickly with any jam, soak them in sherry, brandy, rum or whisky - or any of those liqueurs forgotten in the back of the cupboard.

"Next comes the custard straight out of a packet and mixed three parts custard to one of double cream.

"I prefer packet to tinned custard, and even to fresh custard from the chilled shelves, which is delicious but too liquid to hold its shape. It's years since I made the real thing.

"I then top it with more double cream, whipped this time.