Mary Berry Lemon Lime Traybake Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re on the lookout for a zesty, easy-to-make treat that will brighten up your day, you absolutely need to try Mary Berry’s lemon lime traybake!

This recipe combines the tangy freshness of lemon and lime with a soft, moist sponge that’s perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a quick dessert, this traybake is a crowd-pleaser that’s as delicious as it is simple to whip up. Plus, it’s Mary Berry’s recipe, so you know it’s going to be a winner every time!

Mary Berry Lemon Lime Traybake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake, you’ll need a mixture of simple, yet vibrant ingredients that combine to create a fresh, zesty flavor profile perfect for any occasion. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

1. Butter – 225g of unsalted butter will give the traybake its rich, moist texture and tender crumb. It’s best to use softened butter to make creaming easier and to help achieve a light and airy cake.

2. Caster Sugar – 225g of caster sugar ensures a subtle sweetness that balances the citrus flavors without overwhelming them. Its fine texture also blends smoothly into the batter.

3. Eggs – 4 large eggs. These are crucial for structure and moisture. The eggs help the batter rise and bind the ingredients together while giving the traybake a soft, moist crumb.

4. Self-Raising Flour – 225g of self-raising flour is key for achieving that light, fluffy texture in the cake. The leavening agents in the flour ensure the cake rises beautifully, making it soft and airy.

5. Baking Powder – 1 tsp. Although self-raising flour already contains leavening agents, an additional teaspoon of baking powder will give the traybake a slightly extra lift, helping it rise to perfection.

6. Lemon Zest – Zest of 2 lemons. This provides the traybake with an unmistakable fresh and tangy flavor, which complements the lime in the glaze.

7. Lime Zest – Zest of 1 lime. The lime zest adds a citrusy sharpness that cuts through the sweetness of the cake, giving it a vibrant and refreshing twist.

8. Lemon Juice – 1 tbsp of freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor of the cake batter and adds an additional layer of tanginess that pairs beautifully with the lime glaze.

9. Full-Fat Greek Yogurt – 150g of full-fat Greek yogurt. The yogurt makes the cake wonderfully moist and tender while adding a slight tang that balances the sweetness.

10. Lime Juice – 2 tbsp of fresh lime juice. This will be used to create the zesty glaze that finishes the traybake off with a refreshing citrus kick.

11. Icing Sugar – 200g of icing sugar to make the glaze. This sugar dissolves easily into the lime juice, creating a smooth, sweet, and tangy topping for the cake.

Equipment Needed

For making Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake, you’ll need a few essential pieces of kitchen equipment. Here’s the rundown:

1. Baking Tray (approximately 20×30 cm or 8×12 inches) – A rectangular traybake pan works best for this recipe, as it allows the cake to bake evenly while giving it the ideal thickness for a traybake. You’ll want to line it with baking parchment to make removing the cake easier.

2. Electric Mixer (or Hand Whisk) – An electric mixer or stand mixer will be helpful for creaming the butter and sugar together. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the mixture, helping your cake rise beautifully. However, you can also use a hand whisk if you prefer to go old-school.

3. Zester or Grater – For zesting the lemons and lime. A fine zester or grater will give you thin, fragrant zest that releases all the essential oils for maximum citrus flavor.

4. Measuring Spoons and Scales – Accurate measurements are important in baking, so having a good set of measuring spoons for liquids and scales for dry ingredients is essential.

5. Sieve – A fine sieve for sifting the self-raising flour and icing sugar ensures there are no lumps, which will result in a smoother batter and glaze.

6. Cooling Rack – After baking, it’s essential to let your traybake cool on a wire rack so that it doesn’t get soggy from trapped steam. A cooling rack also ensures even cooling, preventing condensation from affecting the texture.

7. Small Bowl (for glaze) – For mixing the lime juice and icing sugar to make the zesty glaze. A small bowl makes it easier to whisk and pour over the cake.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan

   Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Line your baking tray with baking parchment, ensuring it covers the base and sides. This will make removing the traybake much easier once it’s baked.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

   In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cake its fluffy texture. You can use an electric mixer for this part to speed up the process.

3. Add the Eggs

   Crack the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. The eggs add moisture and help bind the ingredients together, so be sure to incorporate them fully before moving on to the next step.

4. Add the Zests and Yogurt

   Stir in the lemon zest, lime zest, and lemon juice. These fresh citrus ingredients will infuse the cake with their bright, tangy flavors. Then, add the Greek yogurt, which will keep the cake moist and add a lovely richness.

5. Mix the Dry Ingredients

   In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the cake to become dense.

6. Pour into the Tray & Bake

   Pour the batter into the prepared tray and level the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back when touched.

7. Cool the Cake

   Once baked, remove the traybake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tray for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. This short resting period helps the cake set a little before being removed from the pan.

8. Prepare the Glaze

   While the cake is cooling, whisk together the lime juice and icing sugar in a small bowl until smooth and combined. The glaze should be thick yet pourable-if it’s too runny, add a little more icing sugar.

9. Glaze the Cake

   Once the cake has cooled completely, pour the lime glaze over the top of the cake. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly across the surface. The glaze will set into a glossy, sweet-tart finish that complements the cake beautifully.

Expert Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before you begin mixing. This will help them blend better and create a smooth batter without any lumps or curdling.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter – When incorporating the dry ingredients, mix gently to avoid overworking the batter. Overmixing can result in a dense and heavy cake, so fold the flour in carefully.

3. Zest Before Juicing – For the best zest, always zest your fruits before juicing them. It’s much easier to zest a whole lemon or lime, and it ensures that you don’t lose any valuable zest during juicing.

4. Customizing Flavors – Feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit for a different twist. The recipe is very adaptable and works well with various citrus combinations.

5. Make Ahead – This traybake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The cake will actually become even more flavorful as the citrus flavors continue to develop.

6. Decorative Topping – For an extra flourish, you can add thin slices of lemon or lime on top of the glazed cake or sprinkle with some extra zest for a vibrant, eye-catching finish.

Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a light, fluffy texture and a zesty citrus glaze that makes it irresistible. It’s an easy-to-make, foolproof recipe that delivers on both flavor and presentation. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a picnic, or just a casual afternoon tea, this traybake will impress everyone with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture.

The combination of lemon, lime, and yogurt ensures the cake remains moist while the glaze adds an extra punch of citrusy sweetness. The recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to experiment with different citrus fruits or even add a touch of vanilla for a richer flavor. A simple yet elegant dessert, this Lemon Lime Traybake is sure to be a new favorite in your baking repertoire!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake

Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake is a classic, tangy dessert that’s both simple to make and bursting with citrus flavor. The versatility of this recipe allows for several delicious variations, so if you’re looking to mix things up or cater to different preferences, you can easily adjust the ingredients and method. Here are a few variations that are just as delicious as the original:

1. Berry Twist

   For an added fruity touch, you can swap out some of the lemon and lime for fresh berries. Adding a handful of raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries will complement the zesty citrus flavors beautifully.

   Simply fold the berries into the batter right before pouring it into the tin. The berries will add pockets of sweetness and juiciness that pair perfectly with the tanginess of the citrus.

2. Lemon and Ginger

   If you’re a fan of a bit of warmth and spice, try adding finely grated fresh ginger or ground ginger to the batter. This will give the traybake a delightful kick that balances the bright, fresh citrus flavor. A tablespoon or two of grated fresh ginger will work wonders without overpowering the delicate flavors.

3. Lime and Coconut

   For a tropical twist, try incorporating desiccated coconut into the batter. This variation adds a lovely texture to the cake while deepening the flavor profile with a subtle nuttiness. You can even garnish the traybake with a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top once it’s finished to give it a golden finish.

4. Lemon and Poppy Seed

   For a fun and textured update, adding poppy seeds to the cake is a simple yet effective way to introduce a bit of crunch. They blend beautifully into the batter, offering a slight crunch while still allowing the refreshing citrus flavor to shine through. This version is reminiscent of a classic lemon poppy seed cake and makes for a lovely variation.

5. Lemon and Blueberry Drizzle

   In place of the lime, swap in an extra lemon and make a tangy blueberry drizzle. To do this, cook fresh blueberries with sugar and a splash of water until you have a thick syrup. Drizzle it over the cake once it’s baked, allowing it to soak into the sponge for an extra burst of flavor.

6. Vegan Lemon Lime Traybake

   If you’re catering to vegan guests, you can modify Mary Berry’s recipe by using plant-based alternatives. Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.

   5 tablespoons of water per egg), and swap the butter for vegan margarine or coconut oil. You can also replace the milk with almond or oat milk. With these swaps, you’ll still get a light, zesty, and fragrant traybake without any animal products.

Each of these variations brings a new dimension to Mary Berry’s beloved recipe, and experimenting with them can be a fun way to tailor the traybake to suit different tastes or occasions.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake is a delightful dessert that’s often devoured quickly, but if you happen to have leftovers, there are some best practices for storing them to keep the cake fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how to store it properly and extend its shelf life:

1. Cool the Traybake Completely

   Before storing any leftover cake, ensure that it has completely cooled. This is crucial because if you store warm cake, the moisture will condense inside the container, leading to sogginess. Allow the traybake to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before wrapping it up.

2. Wrap Well for Freshness

   To keep your traybake fresh and moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. This helps prevent the cake from drying out and ensures that it stays soft and flavorful.

   Alternatively, you can store it in an airtight container to protect it from air exposure. Make sure the container is large enough to avoid squishing the cake, as this can distort its texture.

3. Refrigeration

   While the traybake will typically keep for a few days at room temperature, if the weather is particularly warm or if you’d like to extend its shelf life, store it in the fridge. Refrigeration can help preserve the citrusy zing for a little longer, but be mindful that cold temperatures can sometimes slightly alter the texture of the cake, making it firmer.

4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

   If you have a surplus of traybake and want to keep it for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. To freeze, cut the cake into individual slices for easy portioning.

   Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method ensures that you can enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes without losing quality. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw at room temperature or heat it up gently in the microwave.

5. Reheating Leftovers

   If you prefer your cake warm, it’s easy to reheat individual slices. Place them on a baking tray and warm them in the oven at around 160°C (320°F) for 5-10 minutes, or microwave a slice for 20-30 seconds. If you’ve topped the traybake with a glaze, be careful when reheating so that it doesn’t melt off.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your leftover Lemon Lime Traybake remains just as delicious the next day as when it was freshly baked.

What Goes Well With Lemon Lime Traybake

Lemon Lime Traybake’s fresh, zesty flavor profile makes it an incredibly versatile dessert, perfect for pairing with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you want to serve it on its own or elevate it with some additional treats, here are a few ideas to complement the bright citrus notes of this traybake:

1. Whipped Cream or Crème Fraîche

   A dollop of freshly whipped cream or smooth crème fraîche can be the perfect creamy counterpart to the tangy lemon and lime. The richness and subtle tang of the cream balance the cake’s light and zesty flavors. You can even mix in a little vanilla extract for extra sweetness or lightly sweeten the crème fraîche to enhance its creamy texture.

2. Fresh Berries

   Fresh berries like raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries add a juicy burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tart citrus. You can scatter them on top of the traybake before serving, or serve them alongside as a refreshing contrast. The juicy berries also provide a pop of color, making your dessert visually appealing.

3. Iced Tea or Lemonade

   A refreshing beverage is always a welcome accompaniment to a citrusy treat like Lemon Lime Traybake. A glass of freshly brewed iced tea, whether it’s sweetened or unsweetened, complements the cake’s flavors wonderfully. Alternatively, a cool glass of homemade lemonade or lemon-lime soda brings out the citrusy notes in the cake while providing a thirst-quenching match.

4. Vanilla Ice Cream

   For a more indulgent dessert experience, serve the traybake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The smooth, creamy vanilla provides a lovely contrast to the tartness of the lemon and lime, and as the cake warms up slightly, it pairs wonderfully with the ice cream’s cold, smooth texture. If you prefer a fruity twist, try pairing the cake with coconut or mango sorbet.

5. Candied Citrus Peel

   To double down on the citrus theme, top the traybake with a sprinkling of candied lemon or lime peel. The sweetness of the candied peel and its chewy texture contrasts nicely with the soft and airy sponge, while adding an extra burst of citrus flavor. This is also a great way to use up any leftover citrus peel from the recipe.

6. Tea or Coffee

   Lemon Lime Traybake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for an afternoon treat or a light dessert after a meal. A delicate Earl Grey tea, with its slight floral notes, complements the zesty flavors of the cake, while a strong espresso or cappuccino adds depth and richness to the citrusy sweetness.

These pairing suggestions not only enhance the flavor of the traybake but also add variety to how you can enjoy it, whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating yourself to a slice.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake is a delicious and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its easy preparation and zesty citrus flavors make it a favorite among both novice bakers and experienced chefs.

The beauty of this traybake lies in its simplicity, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for customization with different variations, from berry twists to coconut additions. By following the best practices for storage, you can extend the enjoyment of this delightful cake, ensuring that leftovers stay fresh and delicious for days.

Whether served with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a refreshing beverage, this dessert is the epitome of versatility, and it effortlessly pairs with a wide range of accompaniments. The Lemon Lime Traybake is a treat that will undoubtedly please anyone who enjoys the bright and invigorating flavors of citrus, making it a perfect dessert for any time of the year.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake?

To make Mary Berry’s lemon lime traybake, you will need butter, caster sugar, eggs, self-raising flour, lemon zest, lime zest, a small amount of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. For the icing, you will need icing sugar, lemon juice, lime juice, and a little water.

Can I Use Bottled Lemon And Lime Juice Instead Of Fresh Fruit?

While it’s best to use fresh lemon and lime zest for the most vibrant flavor, you can use bottled juice in place of fresh juice if necessary. However, fresh zest will provide a more aromatic and intense flavor.

How Long Does It Take To Bake Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake?

The traybake typically takes about 25-30 minutes to bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F. You should check the cake with a skewer to ensure it comes out clean before removing it from the oven.

Can I Make The Lemon Lime Traybake In Advance?

Yes, you can make the traybake ahead of time. It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 1 month, just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil.

What Can I Substitute For Self-raising Flour In The Recipe?

If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of plain flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder. This will mimic the leavening effect needed for the traybake.

Can I Add Extra Fruit To Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake?

Yes, you can experiment with adding small amounts of additional fruits such as blueberries or raspberries for a twist. Just make sure not to overload the batter to maintain the right texture and consistency.

How Should I Store Leftover Lemon Lime Traybake?

Store any leftover traybake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to 1 week. However, note that the cake may lose some of its moistness in the fridge.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Citrus Fruit For This Recipe?

Absolutely!

You can use oranges, grapefruits, or even a mix of different citrus fruits like blood oranges. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change depending on the fruit you choose.

What Should The Texture Of Mary Berry’s Lemon Lime Traybake Be Like?

The texture of the traybake should be light, moist, and soft, with a fine crumb. The cake will have a slight citrus flavor that’s bright but not overwhelming, and the icing adds a sweet and tangy finish.

Can I Make The Lemon Lime Traybake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the gluten-free flour you choose has a similar texture to regular flour, and you may need to add a little extra baking powder to help with the rise.