Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake Recipe

Last updated on April 5, 2024

Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake
Yields: 1 Serving Difficulty: Easy Prep Time: 15 Mins Cook Time: 20 Mins Total Time: 35 Mins

Step into my cozy kitchen, where the sweet, chocolaty aroma of baking fills the air. Today I’m whipping up the Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake, perfect for casual family dinners or intimate evenings curled up by the fire with someone special. As I simply combine butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and cocoa powder all in one bowl, then pop the batter straight into the oven, I’m amazed by how such a straightforward recipe delivers the ultimate decadent chocolate indulgence.

Forkful by forkful, this tender, beautifully risen cake never fails to satisfy cravings and comfort loved ones gathered around my table.

So come join me in making memories as rich as this cake we get to savor together. Even novice bakers will discover that Mary’s magic recipe sweetly celebrates the joy of coming home.

What is Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake Recipe?

Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake Recipe is a simple and delicious chocolate cake recipe that you can make in a few minutes. You just need to put all the ingredients in a bowl and beat them together, then bake the cake in two sandwich tins. You can fill the cake with apricot jam and whipped cream, or any other filling of your choice. This cake is moist, fluffy, and rich in chocolate flavor, and it is perfect for any occasion.

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Why You Love this Recipe

The Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake Recipe stands out for its remarkable simplicity and deliciousness.

Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  • Ease of Preparation: This recipe is quick and straightforward, with no complex steps like creaming butter and sugar or separating eggs.
  • Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: It utilizes common ingredients likely already in your kitchen, making it convenient and accessible.
  • Customizable: The recipe is highly adaptable, allowing for a variety of fillings and toppings to suit different tastes and occasions.
  • Universally Appealing: It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, thanks to its rich, beloved chocolate flavor.

Ingredients:

You need the following ingredients to make Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake:

  • 225g/8oz unsalted butter softened, plus extra for greasing
  • 225g/8oz caster sugar, plus extra for sprinkling
  • 4 free-range eggs
  • 220g/7Âľoz self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 50g/1Âľoz cocoa powder
  • 4 tbsp apricot jam
  • 300ml/10½fl oz whipping cream softly whipped

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the cake tins

  • Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas 4.
  • Lightly butter two loose-bottomed 20cm/8in sandwich tins and line the bases with baking paper.

Step 2: Make the cake batter

  • Put the butter, sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, and cocoa in a large bowl and beat for 2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  • Divide the mixture evenly between the prepared tins and level the tops with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake and cool the cakes

  • Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cakes are well risen and spring back when lightly pressed.
  • Leave to cool slightly in the tins, then turn out onto a wire rack, peel off the baking paper, and leave to cool completely.

Step 4: Assemble and serve the cake

  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread with the apricot jam.
  • Spoon over the whipped cream and spread it evenly.
  • Place the other cake layer on top and press down gently.
  • Sprinkle some caster sugar over the top of the cake and serve. Enjoy!
Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake
Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake

What Do I Serve With Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake

When it comes to serving the Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake, the possibilities are delightful and diverse:

  • Fresh Fruits: Pair with strawberries, raspberries, bananas, or cherries for a fresh, fruity contrast.
  • Creamy Additions: Complement the cake with ice cream, custard, whipped cream, or yogurt.
  • Saucy Toppings: Elevate it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, Nutella, or peanut butter.
  • Extra Garnishes: Finish with nuts, sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or mini marshmallows for added texture and visual appeal.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake

Achieving perfection in the Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake is within reach with these expert tips:

  • Butter Consistency: Ensure the butter is soft for easy beating, but avoid using it melted or overly warm to maintain the cake’s structure.
  • Sifting Dry Ingredients: Sift flour, baking powder, and cocoa together to prevent lumps and guarantee a uniform distribution throughout the batter.
  • Batter Mixing: Mix the batter just enough to combine the ingredients; overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cake.
  • Testing for Doneness: Use a skewer to check if the cake is baked properly. The skewer should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.
  • Cooling the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool completely before filling and assembling to prevent the filling from melting or seeping into the cake layers.
  • Even Baking: Rotate the cake tins halfway through baking to ensure even rising and color.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Use ingredients at room temperature to ensure they mix evenly and provide a smoother batter.
  • Accurate Measurements: Be precise with ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

Variations of Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake

Experiment with these variations to add a unique twist to the classic Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake:

  • Ingredient Add-Ins: Enhance the batter with chocolate chips, dried fruits, nuts, or spices for additional flavor and texture.
  • Jam Flavors: Try different jam flavors like raspberry, blackcurrant, or orange for a unique filling twist.
  • Cream Alternatives: Experiment with various creams such as mascarpone, cream cheese, or coconut cream for diverse textures and flavors.
  • Layering Options: Create a multi-layer cake with three or four layers, or opt for cupcakes for individual servings.
  • Frosting Varieties: Top the cake with ganache, buttercream, or cream cheese frosting, adding an extra layer of flavor and richness.
  • Glaze or Syrup Drizzles: Drizzle your cake with a glaze or syrup for added moisture and a sweet finish.
  • Flavor Infusions: Infuse the cake batter or cream with essences like vanilla, almond, or orange for a subtle flavor enhancement.
  • Decorative Touches: Embellish the cake with edible flowers, fruit slices, or themed decorations for special occasions.

How do I store Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake Leftovers?

Room Temperature Storage:

  • For short-term storage (up to 2 days), keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature.
  • Ensure the cake is completely cooled before storing it to prevent condensation.

Refrigeration:

  • For storage up to 5 days, refrigerate the cake.
  • Place the cake in an airtight container or wrap individual slices in plastic wrap.
  • Refrigeration is especially recommended if your cake has cream or fruit fillings.

Freezing:

  • For long-term storage (up to 3 months), freeze the cake.
  • Wrap the cake or individual slices securely in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil.
  • Store wrapped cake slices in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag.
  • Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.

Additional Tips:

  • If your cake has a frosted top, freeze it uncovered for about an hour first, then wrap it to prevent the frosting from sticking to the wrap.
  • For cream-filled cakes, freezing is recommended to maintain the texture and taste of the cream.

How do I reheat Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake Leftovers?

Thawing (if frozen):

  • Thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours before reheating.
  • Ensure the cake is completely thawed to maintain texture and flavor.

Microwave Reheating:

  • Place a slice of cake on a microwave-safe plate.
  • Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a paper towel to retain moisture.
  • Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat as it can dry out the cake.

Oven Reheating:

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • Place the cake slices on a baking tray and cover lightly with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  • Heat for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.
  • This method is ideal for maintaining the cake’s texture, especially for larger portions or full cakes.

Serving Suggestions:

  • After reheating, let the cake stand for a minute before serving.
  • Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat.

Nutrition Value List (Per Serving, Based on 10 Servings):

  • Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving (varies based on ingredients and portion size).
  • Total Fat: Around 18-22g, with saturated fat constituting about 10-12g.
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 80-100mg per serving.
  • Sodium: Roughly 150-200mg.
  • Total Carbohydrates: About 40-50g, with sugars making up 20-25g of this.
  • Dietary Fiber: Around 2-3g.
  • Protein: Approximately 5-6g per serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake

Can I make the Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake gluten-free?

Yes! To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising flour blend. Additionally, add 1 teaspoon of xanthan gum if your flour blend doesn’t include it, to ensure the cake holds together well.

How can I make the cake more moist?

Try adding yogurt or sour cream. Including about 1/4 cup of plain yogurt or sour cream in the batter can enhance the cake’s moisture. These ingredients also contribute to a richer texture.

Can I bake this cake in a different type of pan?

Absolutely. While the recipe calls for sandwich tins, you can use a bundt pan, a loaf tin, or even cupcake tins. Just adjust the baking time accordingly – smaller or thinner cakes will bake faster.

Is it possible to reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar. If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the sugar by up to 1/4 without significantly affecting the texture. However, keep in mind that this will also lessen the cake’s overall sweetness.

Why did my cake turn out dry?

If your cake is dry, it could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. To prevent this, ensure you measure your ingredients accurately and keep an eye on the baking time. The cake is done when a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Also, be sure not to open the oven door too often during baking, as this can cause heat loss and uneven baking.

What can I do if my cake doesn’t rise properly?

A cake that doesn’t rise well often results from old baking powder or improper mixing. Make sure your baking powder is fresh, as it loses potency over time. When mixing, beat the ingredients just enough to combine them – overmixing can deflate the batter.

My cake is too dense. What went wrong?

A dense cake can result from overmixing the batter or not incorporating enough air into the eggs and sugar. Remember to beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy before adding other ingredients. Also, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature to aid in proper mixing.

How can I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

To prevent sticking, thoroughly grease your baking tins and line them with parchment paper. Ensure the cake has cooled slightly before attempting to remove it from the tin. If it’s still sticking, run a knife around the edge of the cake to gently release it from the sides of the tin.

Conclusion

The Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake is a wonderfully versatile and straightforward recipe that promises a deliciously moist and fluffy chocolate cake with minimal fuss. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging in a chocolatey treat, this cake is sure to impress. Its adaptability to various dietary needs and preferences, along with the option to personalize it with different fillings and toppings, makes it a reliable go-to recipe for any baker. By following a few simple tips and tricks, you can easily create a cake that’s both delightful to the palate and pleasing to the eye, ensuring it becomes a cherished recipe in your collection.

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