Description
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.
Ingredients
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
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!