Mary Berry golden syrup cake is a delicious and moist cake, made with golden syrup, butter, and self-raising flour. It is also very easy to make, with only one bowl and one cake tin required. You don’t need any special skills or equipment to bake this cake. All you need is a microwave, a wooden spoon, a skewer, and an oven.
In this article, I will show you how to make Mary Berry’s golden syrup cake, with a complete step-by-step guide. You will also learn some tips and tricks to make your cake even better.
Let’s get started!
What is Mary Berry Golden Syrup Cake Recipe?
Mary Berry golden syrup cake is a classic British cake, made with golden syrup, butter, and self-raising flour. It is named after Mary Berry, a famous British baker, author, and television personality, who published this recipe in her book Mary Berry’s Baking Bible in 2009. This cake is delicious and moist, with a rich and sweet flavor. It is also very easy to make, with only one bowl and one cake tin required.
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Why You Love this Recipe
There are many reasons to love this recipe for Mary Berry golden syrup cake.
Here are some of them:
- Simple Preparation: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Requiring just one bowl and one cake tin, it’s a fuss-free process that doesn’t demand elaborate techniques. Melting the butter and golden syrup together, then combining them with the other ingredients, creates a smooth, easy-to-handle batter.
- Versatile Use: Whether it’s a casual tea-time snack, a birthday treat, or a festive dessert, this cake fits the bill. It pairs wonderfully with a range of accompaniments like whipped cream, ice cream, or custard, and welcomes additions like nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate chips.
- Delicious and Moist: The cake’s rich, sweet flavor, owed largely to the golden syrup, is its hallmark. This ingredient imparts a unique caramel-like taste, while the butter ensures the cake remains soft and tender.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Golden Syrup Cake Recipe
To make Mary Berry golden syrup cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- 175 g (6 oz) butter
- 150 g (5 oz) golden syrup
- 150 g (5 oz) light muscovado sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 225 g (8 oz) self-raising flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
Useful Equipment
- A microwave-safe bowl
- A wooden spoon
- A 900 g (2 lb) loaf tin
- Baking parchment
- A skewer
- A wire rack
Instructions Make Mary Berry Golden Syrup Cake
To make this recipe, you need to follow these steps:
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the loaf tin
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (140°C fan, gas mark 3).
- Grease the loaf tin and line it with baking parchment.
Step 2: Melt the butter, golden syrup, and sugar in the microwave
- Put the butter, golden syrup, and sugar in the microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the butter has melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir well with the wooden spoon.
Step 3: Add the eggs and flour to the mixture
- Add the eggs and beat well.
- Then, sift in the flour and salt and fold in gently.
- The batter should be smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Pour the batter into the loaf tin and bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin and level the surface.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the cake is golden and firm to the touch.
- A skewer inserted in the center should come out clean.
Step 5: Cool the cake and slice
- Leave the cake to cool slightly in the tin, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Cut into slices and enjoy!
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Golden Syrup Cake?
While Mary Berry’s golden syrup cake is a treat in itself, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate its indulgence.
Here are refined suggestions to complement its flavors:
- Whipped Cream with a Twist: Instead of just plain whipped cream, try infusing it with orange zest or a splash of brandy for an extra flavor kick. This cream not only adds lightness but also a subtle, sophisticated twist to each slice.
- Ice Cream Varieties: Beyond vanilla, consider pairing with salted caramel or cinnamon ice cream. These flavors contrast beautifully with the cake’s sweetness, offering a creamy and nuanced taste experience.
- Homemade Custard: A velvety homemade custard, perhaps with a hint of vanilla or almond extract, can add both warmth and a rich, smooth texture to the cake, enhancing its comfort-food appeal.
- Lemon Curd Enhancement: For an extra zing, mix the lemon curd with a bit of lime zest or ginger. This not only adds tanginess but also a refreshing and slightly spicy note that cuts through the cake’s richness.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Golden Syrup Cake
To ensure your golden syrup cake is as perfect as Mary Berry’s, consider these expert tips:
- Ingredient Quality: The key to the cake’s delightful flavor lies in high-quality ingredients. Choose artisanal golden syrup and premium butter for a notable difference in taste and texture.
- Gentle Mixing: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Fold in your ingredients gently, ensuring everything is combined without being overworked. This approach maintains the cake’s desired fluffiness.
- Baking Precision: Avoid a dry cake by precisely timing the baking. Start checking for doneness slightly before the recommended time. The cake should be a golden color with a springy touch, and a skewer should come out clean when inserted in the center.
- Storage Savvy: Store your cake smartly to retain its freshness. Room temperature is ideal for up to three days, but for longer storage, the refrigerator works best. When freezing, ensure it’s wrapped securely to prevent freezer burn.
Variations of Mary Berry Golden Syrup Cake
Expand your baking repertoire with these inventive takes on the classic recipe:
- Nutty Twist: Introduce a crunchy element by adding finely chopped hazelnuts or pistachios to the batter. They provide not only texture but also a delightful nutty flavor.
- Fruit-Infused Versions: Incorporate dried cherries or blueberries for a burst of tartness. If using fresh fruits like diced apple or pear, toss them in cinnamon before adding to the batter for a spiced, fruity note.
- Chocolate Chip Fusion: Chocolate chips can be a delightful addition. For a more gourmet twist, try using dark chocolate chunks and finishing the cake with a sprinkle of sea salt post-baking.
- Spiced Ginger Variant: Elevate the ginger flavor by adding a dash of black pepper or cardamom alongside the ginger. These spices offer warmth and complexity, perfect for colder months or a cozy tea time.
How do I store Mary Berry Golden Syrup Cake Leftovers?
Proper storage of your Mary Berry golden syrup cake ensures that you can enjoy its moistness and flavor for days after baking.
Here’s an optimized approach:
- Cooling the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial to prevent moisture buildup, which can make the cake soggy.
- Slicing or Whole Storage: You can either slice the cake or keep it whole. Slices are convenient for quick serving, while keeping it whole can help retain more moisture.
- Wrapping for Freshness: Wrap the cake or individual slices in cling film or plastic wrap. Make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent air exposure. Alternatively, placing the cake in an airtight container offers the same benefit.
- Choosing the Right Storage Location: For short-term storage, keep the cake at room temperature, ideally in a cool, dry place for up to 3 days. If you need to store it for a longer period, the fridge is suitable for up to 5 days.
How do I reheat Mary Berry Golden Syrup Cake Leftovers?
To bring back the warmth and freshness of the cake, follow these reheating instructions:
- Oven Preheating: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan, gas mark 4).
- Preparing for Reheating: Remove the cake or slices from the plastic wrap and place them on a baking sheet. If the cake feels a bit dry, you can lightly cover it with aluminum foil to help retain moisture during reheating.
- Reheating Duration: Bake for about 10-15 minutes. The goal is to warm the cake without drying it out. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t overheat.
Enjoy the cake as it regains its soft, warm texture, almost as if it’s freshly baked!
Nutrition value (per slice, based on 16 slices):
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
- Fat: 13g (with 7g being saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Sugars: 29g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 0.4g
- Salt: 0.3g
FAQs
Can I substitute the golden syrup with something else?
Yes, you can substitute golden syrup with honey or maple syrup, though the flavor will differ slightly. Golden syrup has a unique caramel-like taste, so using honey or maple syrup will change the cake’s flavor profile. However, these are the closest substitutes in terms of texture and sweetness.
What if I don’t have self-raising flour?
If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can make your own. For every cup of all-purpose flour, add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the baking powder and salt.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising flour blend. Be sure to check the blend is suitable for cakes, as some may be formulated for bread or other baked goods.
How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?
The cake is done when it’s golden brown and firm to the touch. A skewer or toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean. Start checking a few minutes before the end of the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
Can I freeze the golden syrup cake?
Yes, the cake freezes well. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. If desired, you can briefly warm it in the oven for a fresh-baked feel.
Final Words
I hope you enjoyed this article and learned how to make Mary Berry’s golden syrup cake, with a complete step-by-step guide. This cake is delicious and moist, with a rich and sweet flavor. It is also very easy to make.