Welcome to the delightful world of baking with Mary Berry’s Traybake Chocolate Recipe! This recipe is a testament to simplicity and deliciousness, combining the rich flavors of chocolate in a fuss-free, easy-to-make cake. Ideal for any gathering, this traybake will satisfy your chocolate cravings and impress your guests with its moist, tender crumb and indulgent chocolate icing.
What is Mary Berry Traybake Chocolate Recipe?
Mary Berry’s Traybake Chocolate Recipe is a delightful, easy-to-make chocolate cake that’s perfect for any occasion. It features a soft, moist base made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, flour, cocoa powder, and eggs, topped with a rich, creamy chocolate icing. Ideal for serving a crowd, this traybake is a go-to choice for its convenience and delicious taste.
- Related: Mary Berry Chocolate Courgette Cake
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simple to make with no complex techniques.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its universally appealing chocolate flavor is a hit with all ages.
- Versatile: Perfect for any event, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
- Easily Customizable: Adaptable to various toppings and flavors.
- Comforting Classic: Offers that classic chocolatey comfort we all crave.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Traybake Chocolate
For the Cake:
- 250g softened butter (because everything’s better with butter, right?)
- 250g caster sugar (sweetness, here we come!)
- 225g self-raising flour (the secret to a fluffy rise)
- 25g cocoa powder (chocolate heaven!)
- 4 large eggs (to bind our lovely cake together)
- A dash of milk (just enough to get that perfect consistency)
For the Icing:
- 200g dark chocolate (the good stuff, please!)
- 200ml double cream (for that creamy dreaminess)
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Traybake Chocolate
1. Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C. Grease and line your baking tray for easy cake removal.
2. Create the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the eggs, flour, cocoa powder, and a splash of milk. Mix until you have a smooth, even batter.
3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared tray, smoothing out the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean.
4. Make the Icing: While the cake cools, prepare the icing. Melt the dark chocolate and double cream together, stirring until you have a smooth, glossy mixture.
5. Ice the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the chocolate icing over the top. Smooth it out for an even layer.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Slice the traybake into squares and serve. This cake is perfect as it is, or you can pair it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Traybake Chocolate
Pair this delightful traybake with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
- A dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess.
- Fresh berries for a touch of tartness and color.
- A drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Traybake Chocolate
- Quality Ingredients: Always choose the best quality chocolate and cocoa powder for a rich and deep flavor. Higher cocoa content in chocolate makes a difference.
- Even Mixing: Mix your batter evenly to avoid lumps and ensure a uniform texture throughout the cake. This helps in achieving a consistent crumb.
- Correct Baking: Overbaking is the enemy of moisture. Keep an eye on your oven and do the skewer test a few minutes before the timer goes off.
- Temperature Matters: Ingredients like butter and eggs should be at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother batter.
- Cool Completely: Patience is key. Let the cake cool entirely before applying icing to prevent it from melting and sliding off.
- Smooth Icing: For a glossy and smooth icing, gently heat it while stirring constantly. Avoid overheating to prevent the chocolate from seizing.
- Pan Preparation: Grease your baking tray well or line it with parchment paper for easy release of the cake.
- Check Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions.
Variations of Mary Berry Traybake Chocolate
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a nutty texture and rich flavor.
- Flavor Infusion: Add orange zest or extract to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist, or try coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of chili can add an exciting dimension to the chocolate.
- Fruity Fun: Fresh raspberries, strawberries, or even dried apricots can be added for a fruity contrast.
- Chocolate Chunks: Stir in chunks of white or milk chocolate for a double chocolate experience.
- Liqueur Addition: For an adult version, a splash of rum or Baileys can add a luxurious touch.
How Do I Store Mary Berry Traybake Chocolate Leftovers?
- In an Airtight Container: Store the cake in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing odors.
- Room Temperature: Best enjoyed within 3 days when stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
- Refrigeration: If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it and it will stay fresh for up to a week.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Store it away from direct sunlight to prevent the icing from melting and the cake from drying out.
- Freezing Option: You can also freeze the traybake for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in cling film or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Traybake Chocolate Leftovers?
- Briefly in Microwave: Heat slices for 10-15 seconds.
- Oven Reheat: Warm slices at 180°C for a few minutes until just heated through.
Nutritional Value (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 20-25g (Saturated Fat: 12-15g)
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g (Sugars: 25-30g)
- Protein: 4-5g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sodium: 100-150mg
FAQs
Why is my traybake cake dry and crumbly?
Dryness often occurs due to overbaking or incorrect ingredient ratios. Ensure you measure ingredients accurately and keep an eye on the baking time. Using an oven thermometer can also help in maintaining the correct temperature.
My icing is too thin; how can I thicken it?
If your icing is too runny, try chilling it in the refrigerator for a bit to thicken. Alternatively, you can gently stir in more melted chocolate until you reach the desired consistency.
How can I prevent the cake from sticking to the tray?
Properly greasing the baking tray or lining it with parchment paper can prevent sticking. Make sure to cover all the corners and sides for easy release of the cake.
The middle of my cake didn’t bake properly; what went wrong?
If the middle is undercooked, it might be due to uneven oven temperature distribution or opening the oven door too often during baking. Make sure your oven is preheated properly and try to minimize opening the oven door.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Traybake Chocolate is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is sure to yield delicious results that everyone will love. So, grab your apron, and let’s get baking! This traybake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of the joys of baking and sharing.