Mary Berry Chocolate Tray Bake

Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake is a rich, moist chocolate cake baked in a tray and topped with a delicious chocolate frosting. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or just a special treat for the family. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this recipe is ideal for any level of baker.

What Is Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake?

Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake is a classic British sheet cake with a chocolate sponge base topped with smooth chocolate icing. Baked in a rectangular tray, this cake is great for serving a crowd, and it’s easy to slice into individual squares or bars. The combination of cocoa powder in the batter and glossy chocolate icing on top makes this cake wonderfully indulgent.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Cappuccino Cake
• Mary Berry Beetroot and Chocolate Cake
• Mary Berry Banana and Chocolate Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for Sharing: It makes enough for a crowd and is ideal for parties and gatherings.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: Both the cake and frosting have a delicious chocolatey taste.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common ingredients for an easy-to-make dessert.
• Quick and Easy: These are straightforward steps with a short baking time.
• Versatile: Can be decorated with sprinkles, nuts, or chocolate shavings.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake

For the Chocolate Sponge

• 225g self-raising flour – Provides structure to the cake.
• 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
• 225g caster sugar – Sweetens the cake.
• 50g cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor to the sponge.
• 225g butter (softened) – Adds moisture and richness.
• 4 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and helps the cake rise.
• 2 tbsp milk – Keeps the batter smooth and helps achieve the right consistency.

For the Chocolate Icing

• 100g dark chocolate (chopped) – For a rich chocolate glaze.
• 3 tbsp milk – Thins out the icing for a spreadable consistency.
• 50g butter – Adds a creamy texture to the icing.
• 200g icing sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing.

Optional Decorations

• Chocolate sprinkles or shavings – For added texture and decoration.
• Chopped nuts – For a crunchy topping.
• Fresh berries – Adds a burst of color and fresh flavor.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tray

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease a rectangular baking tray and line it with parchment paper, allowing a bit of overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together with an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Milk

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the milk to help loosen the batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be smooth and even.

Step 6: Pour into the Tray and Smooth

Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring it reaches the edges.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should feel springy to the touch.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the icing.

Step 9: Prepare the Chocolate Icing

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate and butter over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method), stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat, then whisk in the milk and sifted icing sugar until you have a thick, glossy icing.

Step 10: Spread the Icing

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the chocolate icing evenly over the top with a spatula.

Step 11: Decorate (Optional)

Sprinkle the top with chocolate shavings, sprinkles, or chopped nuts for a decorative finish.

Step 12: Slice and Serve

Slice the cake into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy your rich, chocolatey tray bake!

What Goes Well with Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake

• Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a refreshing contrast.
• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, perfect with a rich chocolate cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Complements the chocolate flavor and adds a cool contrast.
• Coffee or Espresso: Pairs beautifully with chocolate for a balanced dessert.
• Salted Caramel Drizzle: Adds a sweet and salty twist.

Expert Tips for the Best Chocolate Tray Bake

• Use Good-Quality Cocoa Powder: The quality of the cocoa powder will enhance the chocolate flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Fold the ingredients gently to keep the cake light.
• Cool Completely Before Icing: Ensure the cake is cool to avoid melting the icing.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try nuts, berries, or chocolate shavings for added texture and flavor.
• Store Properly: Cover the tray and bake to keep it fresh and moist for longer.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake

• Add Orange Zest: Add the zest of an orange to the batter for a chocolate-orange twist.
• Mint Chocolate: Mix a few drops of mint extract into the icing for a refreshing flavor.
• Nutty Chocolate Cake: Fold chopped walnuts or hazelnuts into the batter for a crunchy texture.
• Double Chocolate: Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey bites.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop small spoonfuls of peanut butter on top of the batter and swirl before baking.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for Longer Storage: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freeze for Future Enjoyment: Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

How Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake Healthier?

• Reduce Sugar: Use a natural sweetener or reduce the sugar in the batter and icing.
• Use Dark Chocolate with Higher Cocoa: Opt for dark chocolate with 70% or higher cocoa for less sugar.
• Add Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute part of the self-raising flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Limit the Icing: Skip the icing or use a light dusting of cocoa powder for fewer calories.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the chocolate tray bake a day ahead. Simply bake the cake, allow it to cool completely, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Add the icing and decorations on the day you plan to serve for the freshest presentation.

How Do I Keep Chocolate Tray Bake Moist?

To keep the tray bake moist, be sure not to overbake it, as this can dry out the sponge. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature, which helps retain moisture. If the cake needs to be kept longer, you can refrigerate it but bring it to room temperature before serving.

Can I Freeze the Chocolate Tray Bake?

Yes, you can freeze the chocolate tray to bake. Once cooled and iced, cut it into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw slices at room temperature before serving.

What Can I Use Instead of Butter in Chocolate Tray Bake?

If you prefer not to use butter, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vegetable oil, which will keep the cake moist. Alternatively, use half butter and half Greek yogurt for a lighter option without compromising moisture.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Chocolate Tray Bake is a rich, easy-to-make chocolate cake that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist chocolate sponge and smooth chocolate icing, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with fresh berries or ice cream, and enjoy a simple yet delicious treat that everyone will love!

More Recipes By British Baking Recipes

• Mary Berry Battenberg Cake
• Mary Berry Gingerbread
• Mary Berry Chocolate Swiss Roll
• Mary Berry Banana and Carrot Cake

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