Mary Berry Apple Traybake

Mary Berry’s Apple Traybake is a moist, comforting cake that’s perfect for sharing. Made with fresh apples and a hint of warm spices, this simple traybake is a great option for family gatherings, teatime, or an easy dessert.

What is Mary Berry’s Apple Traybake?

Mary Berry’s Apple Traybake is a light sponge cake filled with juicy apple slices and a touch of cinnamon. Baked in a large tray or sheet pan, this cake is easy to cut into squares, making it ideal for serving a crowd.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Dutch Apple Cake
• Mary Berry Dorset Apple Cake
• Mary Berry Apple and Cinnamon Cake

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Family-Friendly Dessert: Simple, delicious, and easy to make.
• Perfect for Autumn: Ideal for when apples are in season.
• Moist and Fluffy Texture: The apples add natural moisture.
• Quick to Make: No complicated steps; just mix, bake, and serve.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great with cream, custard, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry’s Apple Traybake

• 225g (1 cup) Unsalted Butter (softened): Adds richness and a moist texture.
• 225g (1 cup) Caster Sugar: Sweetens the cake and balances the tart apples.
• 275g (2 1/4 cups) Self-Raising Flour: Creates a light and fluffy texture.
• 1 tsp Baking Powder: Gives the cake extra lift.
• 4 Large Eggs: Provide structure and help the cake rise.
• 2 tsp Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor.
• 2-3 Medium Apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): Adds sweetness and moisture.
• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon (optional): Adds warmth and complements the apples.
• Powdered Sugar (for dusting, optional): Adds a simple and elegant touch.

Equipment Needed

• 9×13-Inch Baking Tray: For baking the traybake.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the ingredients.
• Electric Mixer or Whisk: For creaming butter and sugar.
• Spatula: To spread the batter evenly in the pan.
• Peeler and Knife: For preparing the apples.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry’s Apple Traybake

Step 1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Tray

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking tray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2. Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3. Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4. Add the Dry Ingredients

Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder into the bowl. Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake light and airy.

Step 5. Add the Apples

Fold in the thinly sliced apples and ground cinnamon (if using) until the apples are evenly distributed in the batter.

Step 6. Pour the Batter and Spread Evenly

Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 7. Bake the Traybake

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.

Step 8. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

Allow the cake to cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar for a decorative finish, if desired.

Step 9. Slice and Serve

Cut the traybake into squares and serve plain, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

What Goes Well With Apple Traybake

• Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, a perfect pairing.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – A cool contrast to the warm cake.
• Custard – A comforting, classic combination.
• Caramel Sauce – Drizzle on top for extra indulgence.
• Hot Tea or Coffee – Complements the apple flavors nicely.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Apple Traybake

For a perfect apple traybake, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Tart Apples – Granny Smith or Braeburn apples add a nice balance of tartness.
• Avoid Overmixing – Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender crumb.
• Cool Before Slicing – Let the cake cool completely for cleaner slices.
• Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar – For extra flavor, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
• Serve Slightly Warm – Apple traybake tastes especially delicious when served warm.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry’s Apple Traybake

Try these variations for different flavors and textures:

• Add Sultanas or Raisins – Add sweetness and texture.
• Use Brown Sugar – Substitute caster sugar with brown sugar for a caramel-like flavor.
• Top with Crushed Nuts – Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch.
• Add Ginger – Mix in a pinch of ground ginger for an extra warming spice.
• Lemon Zest – Add a hint of lemon zest for a citrusy twist.

Best Practices to Store Apple Traybake

• Store at Room Temperature – Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for Longer Storage – Store in the fridge for up to 5 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freeze for Up to 2 Months – Wrap slices individually and freeze. Thaw at room temperature.

Best Practices to Reheat Apple Traybake

• Oven Reheat – Warm in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5-10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
• Microwave Reheat – Microwave individual slices for about 15 seconds.
• Serve Warm – Apple traybake is delicious when slightly warm.

How Can I Make Apple Traybake Healthier?

• Use Whole Wheat Flour – Substitute part of the self-raising flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Reduce Sugar – Use less caster sugar to lower the sweetness.
• Add Fresh Berries – Mix in raspberries or blueberries for natural sweetness.
• Serve with Greek Yogurt – Instead of cream or ice cream, try Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Add Chia Seeds – Stir in chia seeds for added nutrients.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 260
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 20g

FAQs

What Type of Apples Work Best for Mary Berry’s Apple Traybake?

Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp are best for this traybake. These varieties hold their shape during baking and add a nice balance of sweetness and tartness to the cake.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Apple Traybake?

Yes, apple traybake can be frozen. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for a freshly baked taste.

How Do I Keep My Apple Traybake Moist?

To keep the apple traybake moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’re making it in advance, add a slice of bread to the container; this helps retain moisture and keeps the cake soft.

Can I Make Apple Traybake Ahead of Time?

Yes, apple traybake can be made a day in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container at room temperature. The cake stays moist and often tastes better the next day as the flavors develop.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Apple Traybake is a simple yet delightful dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of apples and warm spices. Whether you’re serving it as a dessert, an afternoon snack, or a treat with tea, this traybake is sure to be a hit. Enjoy each bite of this moist, flavorful cake!

More Recipes By British Baking Recipes

• Mary Berry Fairy Cakes
• Mary Berry’s Death By Chocolate Cake
• Mary Berry Chocolate Fudge Cake
• Paul Hollywood Cinnamon Rolls

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