Leo

July 23 - August 22

The proud and courageous sign of the Lion is associated with the Sun itself, bringer of warmth and light. Those born under this sign have an undeniable presence, holding centre stage and gaining honour by a brilliant performance. Flamboyant and generous, their creative talent and charismatic leadership is always inspiring, although their noisy roar and apparent arrogance can be daunting. These playful gamblers live life to the full and yet, despite their numerous frolics and flirtations, they value loyalty above all else.

Leo rules the heart and this sumptuous Grape and Orange Gateau, crowned with the fruits of the Sun, is brimming with vitality to strengthen the spirit of life. Present it with pomp and ceremony - and you'll surely hear your big cat purring!

GRAPE AND ORANGE GATEAU

Ingredients

• 175g (6oz) margarine
• 175g (6oz) castor sugar
• 3 eggs
• 150g (5oz) self-raising flour, sieved
• 25g (1oz) cocoa powder, sieved
• 1½ x 5ml spoon (1½ teaspoons) baking powder
• 3 oranges
• 125g (4oz) of green and black grapes
• 175g (6oz) curd cheese

Method of preparation

Place the margarine, sugar, eggs, flour, cocoa, baking powder and grated rind of 1 orange into a bowl and beat until well mixed. Place the mixture in a greased and lined 1kg (2lb) loaf tin. Bake in middle of oven 160°C, 325°F, Gas No. 3 for about 60 minutes. Turn out. When cold, cut into 3 horizontal layers. Beat together the curd cheese, finely grated rind and juice of 1 orange. Divide evenly and spread on top of each layer of cake. Remove the pith from the first orange, and segment. Retain a few grapes for decoration and place the rest together with chopped orange segments over 2 layers then place on top of each other. Place the top layer over and decorate with remaining grapes and orange twists.

© 2010 Maggie Hyde