Mary Berry Tiffin Recipe

Last updated on December 3, 2023

Mary Berry Tiffin Recipe
Yields: 1 Serving Difficulty: Easy Prep Time: 20 Mins

Mary Berry Tiffin is a classic British treat that consists of a crunchy biscuit base, topped with a rich chocolate layer. It’s also known as chocolate fridge cake, chocolate biscuit cake, or chocolate concrete. It’s one of Mary Berry’s favorite recipes, and she has shared it in her books and TV shows.

Mary Berry Tiffin is a no-bake dessert that is very easy to make. You only need a few ingredients, and you don’t need an oven or any special equipment. You just need a saucepan, a bowl, a spoon, and a tin. You can also customize the recipe by adding different types of biscuits, nuts, dried fruits, or chocolate. The result is a decadent and satisfying treat that is perfect for tea time, parties, or any occasion.

What is Mary Berry Tiffin Recipe?

Mary Berry Tiffin is a delightful no-bake dessert that can be prepared in just 20 minutes. It features a crunchy biscuit base, perfectly complemented by a rich chocolate layer on top. This treat is also popularly known as chocolate fridge cake, chocolate biscuit cake, or chocolate concrete. Its quick and simple preparation makes it an ideal choice for a last-minute dessert or a sweet treat for any occasion.

More by Mary Berry:

Why You Love this Recipe

Mary Berry Tiffin is a treat you’re sure to adore for its:

  • Ease of Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal equipment. With just a saucepan, bowl, spoon, and tin, you can whip up this dessert without any baking involved.
  • Flexibility: Cater this recipe to your taste by selecting your preferred biscuits and enriching the base with a variety of nuts, dried fruits, or different chocolate types. The decoration options are endless, allowing for a personalized touch with toppings like extra chocolate drizzle, nuts, coconut, or colorful sprinkles.
  • Deliciousness: The contrast between the crunchy, chewy biscuit base and the smooth, creamy chocolate layer creates an irresistible combination. Rich in flavor, this dessert is both satisfying and indulgent.
  • Versatility for Occasions: Perfect for advance preparation, Mary Berry Tiffin can be stored in the fridge or freezer. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert, snack, or even as a thoughtful gift, it’s a delightful treat for any gathering, or to simply enjoy on your own.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Tiffin Recipe

To make Mary Berry Tiffin, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 150g butter, cubed, plus extra for greasing the tin
  • 3 tbsp caster sugar
  • 3 tbsp golden syrup
  • 6 tsp cocoa powder
  • 225g biscuits, crushed (you can use digestive, rich tea, or any other plain biscuits)
  • A handful of raisins (optional)
  • 110g milk chocolate
  • 110g dark chocolate

Equipment

To make Mary Berry Tiffin, you will need the following equipment:

  • A 15-20cm square tin
  • Baking parchment
  • A large saucepan
  • A wooden spoon
  • A microwave-safe bowl
  • A sharp knife

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Tiffin Recipe

To make Mary Berry Tiffin, follow these instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the tin

Butter and line a 15-20cm square tin with baking parchment. Make sure the parchment overlaps the edges of the tin, so you can easily lift the tiffin out later.

Step 2: Make the biscuit base

In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, sugar, golden syrup, and cocoa powder. Stir until smooth and well combined. Remove from the heat and add the crushed biscuits and raisins (if using). Mix well until the biscuits are coated with the chocolate mixture.

Step 3: Transfer the mixture to the tin

Pour the biscuit mixture into the prepared tin and spread it evenly. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon or your hands, to compact the mixture and create a smooth surface.

Step 4: Make the chocolate topping

Put the milk and dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 20 seconds, then stir. Repeat this until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn or seize.

Step 5: Pour the chocolate over the biscuit base

Pour the melted chocolate over the biscuit base and spread it evenly with a palette knife or a spoon. Make sure the chocolate covers the entire surface and reaches the corners of the tin.

Step 6: Refrigerate the tiffin

Put the tin in the fridge and chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight, until the tiffin is set and firm.

Step 7: Cut into squares

Once the tiffin is set, take it out of the fridge and lift it out of the tin using the parchment paper. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into squares. You can make them as big or as small as you like.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Your Mary Berry Tiffin is ready to enjoy! You can serve it as it is, or with some whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries. You can also store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Mary Berry Tiffin
Mary Berry Tiffin

What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Tiffin

While Mary Berry Tiffin is a delight on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments can enhance the experience:

  1. Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly whipped cream, flavored with sugar and vanilla, can add a sweet, airy contrast to the tiffin’s richness.
  2. Ice Cream: Complement the tiffin with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. Vanilla or chocolate ice cream pairs wonderfully, offering a creamy, cool element that contrasts with the dessert’s texture and temperature.
  3. Fresh Berries: Serve the tiffin alongside fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of natural tartness and freshness. Enhance the dish further with a drizzle of berry sauce or jam for an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color.

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Tiffin Recipe

Achieve the finest Mary Berry Tiffin with these expert suggestions:

  1. Select High-Quality Chocolate: The essence of this dessert is its chocolate, so opting for high-grade chocolate is crucial. Whether it’s milk, dark, white, or flavored, choose a type that melts well. The quality of chocolate directly influences the tiffin’s taste.
  2. Finely Crushed Biscuits: Ensure biscuits are crushed into small, even crumbs. This aids in forming a cohesive mixture with the chocolate. A food processor, rolling pin, or even hands can be used for this purpose. Avoid large chunks to prevent the tiffin from being uneven or crumbly.
  3. Firmly Press the Mixture: For a solid base, compact the biscuit mixture thoroughly in the tin. Use a spoon’s back or your hands to ensure it’s evenly spread, filling corners and eliminating air gaps.
  4. Chill Until Set: Refrigerate the tiffin until it solidifies. This step is key for easy cutting and maintaining its shape. For extended storage, freezing is an option; just thaw in the fridge before serving.

Variations of Mary Berry Tiffin Recipe

Experiment with these delightful variations to add a twist to the classic Mary Berry Tiffin:

  1. Rocky Road Tiffin: Incorporate mini marshmallows, chopped nuts, and chocolate chips into the base for a Rocky Road version. Enhance it further with a white chocolate drizzle on top.
  2. Fruit and Nut Tiffin: Mix in chopped dried fruits like apricots, cranberries, or cherries, along with nuts such as almonds, pistachios, or walnuts. A sprinkle of shredded coconut on top adds texture and flavor.
  3. Ginger Tiffin: Swap plain biscuits with ginger snaps or ginger nuts for a spicy kick. Include chopped crystallized ginger in the base and finish with a dark chocolate drizzle for a rich contrast.

chocolate tiffin recipe mary berry

How do I store Mary Berry Tiffin Leftovers?

If you have any leftovers of Mary Berry Tiffin, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

Here are some tips on how to store them properly:

  • In the fridge. You can store the tiffin in the fridge for up to a week. You can keep the tiffin in the tin, or cut it into squares and transfer it to a container. You want to make sure the container is airtight, to prevent the tiffin from drying out or absorbing any odors from the fridge. You can also wrap the tiffin in cling film or foil, to protect it from moisture and air.
  • In the freezer. You can store the tiffin in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can freeze the tiffin in the tin, or cut it into squares and transfer it to a freezer bag or a container. You want to make sure the bag or container is airtight, to prevent the tiffin from freezer burn or ice crystals. You can also wrap the tiffin in cling film or foil, to protect it from moisture and air.

How do I reheat Mary Berry Tiffin Leftovers?

If you want to reheat Mary Berry Tiffin leftovers, you can do so in the microwave or the oven.

Here are some tips on how to reheat them safely and effectively:

  • In the microwave. You can reheat the tiffin in the microwave for a few seconds, to make it softer and gooier. You want to use a microwave-safe plate or container, and cover the tiffin with a paper towel, to prevent it from splattering or drying out. You want to microwave the tiffin in short intervals, and check it frequently, to avoid overheating or burning the tiffin. You can also sprinkle some water on the tiffin, to add some moisture and prevent it from drying out.
  • In the oven. You can reheat the tiffin in the oven for a few minutes, to make it warmer and crispier. You want to use an oven-safe dish or tray, and cover the tiffin with foil, to prevent it from browning or drying out. You want to preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F (320°F fan), and bake the tiffin for 5 to 10 minutes, or until it is warm and slightly melted. You can also sprinkle some water on the tiffin, to add some moisture and prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition value per serving (approximate):

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 100 mg

Other Famous Recipes to Try

FAQ

Is Tiffin Cake the same as Rocky road?

Tiffin cake and rocky road are similar, but not exactly the same. They both have a biscuit base and a chocolate topping, but rocky road usually has more ingredients, such as marshmallows, nuts, and cherries. Tiffin cake is simpler and more traditional, and usually only has raisins as an optional addition.

Can you use different types of biscuits to make Tiffin cake?

Yes, you can use different types of biscuits to make Tiffin cake, as long as they are plain and not too soft. You can use digestive, rich tea, shortbread, ginger snaps, or any other biscuits you like. You can also mix different types of biscuits, to create different flavors and textures.

Is it possible to make a gluten-free version of Mary Berry Tiffin?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of Mary Berry Tiffin by using gluten-free biscuits. Many stores offer a range of gluten-free biscuit options that can be substituted directly for regular biscuits in the recipe. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I make Mary Berry Tiffin without golden syrup?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry Tiffin without golden syrup, although it adds a unique flavor and texture. As an alternative, you can use honey, corn syrup, or maple syrup. These substitutes will slightly alter the taste but still produce a delicious dessert.

Conclusion

Mary Berry Tiffin is a delicious and easy dessert that you can make in no time. It’s a classic British treat that is perfect for any occasion. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover biscuits or chocolate you have in your pantry. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients and toppings, and enjoy it with your family and friends. I hope you liked this recipe and found it helpful for your food blog. If you have any questions or feedback, please let me know in the comments below. Thank you for reading and happy baking!

Notes

Prep time: 15 minutes Chilling time: 2 hours or overnight Servings: 16 squares

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