Putting back the mug, samples the cakes (8)

I believe the answer is:

pastries

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'putting back the mug samples the cakes' is the definition.
I can't tell whether this definition defines the answer.

'back the mug samples the cakes' is the wordplay.
'back' says the letters should be written backwards.
'the mug' becomes 'sap'.
'samples the cakes' becomes 'tries' (I am not sure about this - if you are sure you should believe this answer much more).
'sap' written backwards gives 'pas'.
'pas'+'tries'='PASTRIES'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for pastries that I've seen is " Bakery items".)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.