Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake Recipe

The Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake is a luscious and indulgent dessert that combines the rich, buttery flavors of caramel with a hint of sea salt, all nestled in a moist and tender cake base. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a special treat, this traybake is easy to make and sure to impress with its irresistible taste and beautiful presentation. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed at room temperature, this salted caramel traybake is a delightful addition to any dessert table.

What is Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake?

Mary Berry’s Salted Caramel Traybake is a decadent dessert featuring a soft and moist cake infused with buttery caramel flavor and topped with a generous drizzle of homemade salted caramel sauce. The combination of sweet caramel and the subtle crunch of sea salt creates a perfect balance of flavors, making this traybake a favorite among dessert enthusiasts. Its easy-to-serve format makes it ideal for sharing at parties or enjoying as a comforting treat at home.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Banana Muffins
• Mary Berry Butterscotch Tart
• Mary Berry Egg Custard Tart

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The rich caramel paired with a touch of sea salt creates a sophisticated and satisfying taste.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for all baking levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: The traybake format is ideal for serving multiple people, making it great for parties and gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream.
• Beautiful Presentation: Its glossy caramel topping adds an elegant touch to any dessert spread.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake

For the Cake:

• Self-raising flour: 225g (8 oz), for a light and fluffy base.
• Caster sugar: 200g (7 oz), for sweetness.
• Butter: 100g (3.5 oz), softened, for richness.
• Eggs: 3 large, to bind the ingredients.
• Milk: 150ml (5 fl oz), to create a moist batter.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon, for flavor.
• Baking powder: 1 teaspoon, to help the cake rise.
• Salt: A pinch, to enhance the flavors.

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• Caster sugar: 200g (7 oz), to create the caramel base.
• Butter: 100g (3.5 oz), unsalted, for richness.
• Double cream: 200ml (7 fl oz), to make the sauce smooth and creamy.
• Sea salt: 1 teaspoon, to add a hint of saltiness.

Equipment

• Traybake tin: 23cm x 33cm (9in x 13in), lined with parchment paper.
• Mixing bowls: For preparing the cake and caramel sauce.
• Electric mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar.
• Spatula: For folding in ingredients and spreading the batter.
• Saucepan: For making the caramel sauce.
• Whisk: For stirring the caramel and batter.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cooling rack: To allow the traybake to cool evenly.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F/gas mark 4. Line a 23cm x 33cm (9in x 13in) traybake tin with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined to keep the batter light and fluffy.

3. Bake the Cake

1. Pour batter into Tin: Pour the prepared batter into the lined traybake tin, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool: Remove the traybake from the oven and let it cool completely in the tin on a cooling rack.

4. Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

1. Caramelize the Sugar: In a saucepan, heat the caster sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts into a smooth, amber-colored caramel.
2. Add Butter: Carefully add the butter to the caramel, stirring until fully melted and combined.
3. Incorporate Cream: Gradually pour in the double cream while stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble up, so proceed with caution.
4. Add Sea Salt: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the sea salt until well combined. Allow the sauce to cool slightly until it thickens to a pourable consistency.

5. Assemble the Traybake

1. Pour Caramel Sauce Over Cake: Once the traybake has cooled, pour the salted caramel sauce evenly over the top, allowing it to seep into the cake slightly.
2. Spread Evenly: Use a spatula to gently spread the caramel sauce across the surface, ensuring an even layer.
3. Set the Sauce: Allow the traybake to sit at room temperature until the caramel sauce sets, or place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to speed up the process.

6. Serve the Tartbake

1. Remove from Tin: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the traybake out of the tin.
2. Slice and Serve: Cut the traybake into squares or rectangles and serve as desired. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold ice cream complements the warm, rich caramel perfectly.
• Whipped Cream: Adds a light and airy contrast to the dense caramel.
• Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing tartness.
• Espresso or Coffee: A hot cup of coffee or espresso pairs wonderfully with the sweet caramel.
• Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Good quality butter and cream enhance the richness of the caramel sauce.
• Monitor Caramel Carefully: Keep a close eye on the sugar as it melts to prevent burning. Remove from heat as soon as it reaches an amber color.
• Avoid Overmixing: When preparing the cake batter, mix until just combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture.
• Chill the Caramel: Allow the caramel sauce to cool slightly before pouring to prevent it from making the cake soggy.
• Evenly Spread the Caramel: Use a spatula to ensure the caramel sauce is evenly distributed over the traybake for consistent flavor in every bite.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the caramel layer for an extra chocolatey twist.
• Nut Topping: Sprinkle toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts over the caramel before it sets for added texture.
• Sea Salt Sprinkle: Add an extra sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the caramel for enhanced flavor.
• Fruit Layers: Incorporate a layer of sliced bananas or caramelized apples between the cake and caramel sauce for added depth.
• Spiced Caramel: Infuse the caramel sauce with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake

• Room Temperature: Store the traybake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the traybake in the refrigerator for up to a week. The caramel sauce will firm up, making it easier to slice.
• Freezing: The traybake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake

• Microwave: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a quick treat.
• Oven: Reheat the entire traybake in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 10 minutes to enjoy warm and gooey caramel.
• Room Temperature: Allow the traybake to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake Healthier?

• Reduce Sugar: Cut down the caster sugar in both the cake and caramel sauce, or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the self-raising flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
• Lower-Fat Dairy: Use reduced-fat butter and cream to decrease the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts into the caramel sauce for added protein and healthy fats.
• Portion Control: Make smaller traybakes or individual mini traybakes to enjoy the rich flavors without overindulging.

Nutrition Value (per slice)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 22g
• Fiber: 2g

FAQs

Can I make Mary Berry salted caramel traybake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the traybake ahead of time. Prepare and bake the traybake, then allow it to cool completely. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious.

How do I prevent the caramel from burning in the sauce?

To prevent the caramel from burning, cook the sugar over medium heat and stir constantly until it melts evenly. Remove the saucepan from the heat as soon as the sugar turns a smooth amber color. Be cautious, as caramel can quickly go from perfect to burnt.

Can I use a different type of sugar for the caramel sauce?

Yes, you can use different types of sugar such as brown sugar or coconut sugar for the caramel sauce. Each type of sugar will impart a slightly different flavor and color to the caramel, so choose according to your preference.

What is the best way to pour the caramel sauce over the traybake?

To pour the caramel sauce evenly, allow it to cool slightly so it thickens but is still pourable. Pour it slowly over the center of the traybake and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface. This ensures that the caramel covers the entire traybake uniformly.

Final Words

The Mary Berry Salted Caramel Traybake is a sumptuous and elegant dessert that beautifully marries the sweet, buttery notes of caramel with a hint of salty sophistication. Its easy-to-prepare format and delightful flavors make it a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration. With its rich, creamy caramel and tender cake base, this traybake is sure to become a beloved favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy the harmonious blend of sweet and salty in every delicious bite!

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