Mary Berry Butterscotch Cake Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’ve ever craved the perfect balance of sweetness and richness in a cake, then Mary Berry’s butterscotch cake recipe is definitely worth trying!

This recipe is a dream for those who love the indulgent flavor of butterscotch paired with a light, fluffy sponge.

The best part?

It’s surprisingly simple to make, yet it delivers a show-stopping dessert that’ll wow anyone lucky enough to taste it. With its melt-in-your-mouth texture and a gorgeous drizzle of butterscotch sauce, it’s a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion-whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out!

Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake: A Classic Delight

Mary Berry, the renowned British baker and television personality, has become synonymous with classic, indulgent cakes that boast rich flavors and perfect textures. One of her most popular creations is the Butterscotch Cake, a moist, buttery treat with a rich, caramel flavor that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Below, we dive deep into each section of preparing this delightful dessert, from gathering the ingredients to mastering the technique.

Mary Berry Butterscotch Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients, which come together to form a beautifully rich and moist cake.

1. Butter: The base of this cake’s delicious texture comes from butter, which helps in both flavor and tenderness. Use unsalted butter for better control over the seasoning. It should be softened at room temperature to ensure it blends easily with the other ingredients.

2. Sugar: Both granulated sugar and soft brown sugar are used in the recipe. The brown sugar imparts a slight molasses flavor, contributing to the cake’s deep, butterscotch taste. The granulated sugar is there to sweeten the batter while helping with texture.

3. Flour: You will need self-raising flour to give the cake its light, airy rise. Self-raising flour already contains a leavening agent, so you don’t need to add baking powder separately.

4. Eggs: Fresh large eggs are essential for binding the ingredients and providing structure to the cake. They also help in creating that rich golden color.

5. Butterscotch Sauce: The star of the cake-this sauce is made from a combination of butter, sugar, and cream. It is what gives the cake its iconic butterscotch flavor and moistness.

6. Milk: Whole milk adds to the moisture and helps achieve the desired consistency of the batter. You may need to adjust the quantity slightly depending on your flour’s absorbency.

7. Vanilla Extract: For a depth of flavor, a splash of vanilla extract will enhance the sweetness of the cake without overpowering the butterscotch essence.

8. Salt: Just a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors of the cake.

Optional additions like chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) or chocolate chips can be added to create additional textures and flavor layers, though these are not part of the traditional recipe.

Equipment Needed

The right tools make all the difference in the kitchen, especially when trying to create the perfect Mary Berry Butterscotch Cake. Here’s a breakdown of the equipment required:

1. Mixing Bowls: You will need large mixing bowls to combine your wet and dry ingredients. A good-sized bowl for the cake batter and a separate one for the butterscotch sauce is ideal.

2. Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk: While you can certainly mix by hand, using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer will save time and give you a smoother batter. It’s important to ensure that the butter and sugar are well creamed to create a light texture.

3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking. A good set of measuring cups and spoons will help you ensure the right proportions of ingredients for a balanced flavor and structure.

4. Cake Tins: You’ll need two round 8-inch cake tins (or an equivalent size). Line them with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides to prevent sticking.

5. Saucepan: A small saucepan is needed for making the butterscotch sauce. The sauce will be gently cooked over low to medium heat to prevent burning and ensure a smooth consistency.

6. Cooling Rack: Once baked, the cakes need to cool to room temperature on a cooling rack before frosting. This ensures the frosting doesn’t melt and that the cake maintains its structure.

7. Spatula and Piping Bag: For assembling the cake and decorating it with frosting, a spatula will help spread the buttercream or frosting evenly. If you plan to decorate with a more intricate design, use a piping bag fitted with your choice of nozzle.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake

Making Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake is straightforward, but it requires attention to detail to get it just right. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving cake perfection.

Step 1: Preheat The Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F) for a fan-assisted oven, or 180°C (350°F) for a conventional oven. Line your cake tins with baking parchment and lightly grease them to ensure easy removal of the cakes once baked.

Step 2: Cream The Butter And Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and both types of sugar (granulated and brown) until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, helping the cake rise beautifully.

Step 3: Add The Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated and prevents the mixture from curdling. If the mixture starts to look a little separated, add a tablespoon of flour to bring it back together.

Step 4: Sift In The Dry Ingredients

Sift the self-raising flour into the mixture to ensure there are no lumps. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness, and gently fold everything together using a spatula or the lowest setting on your mixer.

Step 5: Add Milk And Vanilla

Slowly pour in the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and has a soft consistency. It should easily drop from a spoon but not be too runny.

Step 6: Bake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake tins. Level the tops and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their tins for about 10 minutes, then transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make The Butterscotch Sauce

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the butterscotch sauce by melting butter, brown sugar, and double cream in a saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to prevent burning, and cook until the mixture thickens slightly. Allow it to cool before using it to decorate the cake.

Step 8: Frost And Assemble

Once the cakes are fully cooled, spread a layer of butterscotch sauce between the layers and on top of the cake. You can pipe additional buttercream frosting or drizzle more butterscotch sauce for a decorative effect.

Expert Tips

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps them blend more evenly, preventing a lumpy batter and giving your cake a smooth texture.

2. Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. A gentle fold with a spatula is often the best method.

3. Check for Doneness: All ovens vary, so keep an eye on the cakes during the final 10 minutes of baking. A toothpick or skewer should come out clean when inserted into the middle of the cake.

4. Use Quality Butterscotch Sauce: For the best results, make your own butterscotch sauce rather than relying on store-bought. It’s easy to make, and the flavor is far superior.

5. Chill the Frosting: If you plan to pipe the frosting onto your cake, chill it for 10-15 minutes before using it. This helps it hold its shape and prevents it from becoming too runny.

Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a heavenly dessert. Its combination of rich butterscotch sauce, moist cake, and light frosting makes it a standout choice for any occasion-whether it’s a family gathering, a special event, or simply a treat to brighten up your day.

With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be able to recreate this British classic with confidence. The expert tips and techniques shared above will guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your cake turns out just as delectable as Mary’s!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake

Mary Berry’s iconic Butterscotch Cake is a timeless treat, known for its indulgent flavor and delightful texture. While the traditional recipe itself is a perfect balance of sweetness and richness, there are many ways you can elevate or tweak it to suit your tastes or match different occasions. Here are a few easy and delicious recipe variations you can try:

1. Nutty Butterscotch Cake

   For those who enjoy a bit of crunch in their cake, adding nuts is a fantastic way to enhance the flavor and texture. Chopped walnuts or pecans complement the sweetness of the butterscotch beautifully.

   You can either fold them into the batter or sprinkle them on top of the cake before baking. This adds a delightful contrast to the soft and moist crumb of the cake.

2. Butterscotch And Banana Cake

   Combining the sweet, caramel-like flavor of butterscotch with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas creates a rich, moist cake. Add mashed ripe bananas to the batter, along with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, to create a flavor profile that’s both comforting and indulgent. The bananas will also help keep the cake extra moist, ensuring it stays soft for days.

3. Butterscotch Swirl Cheesecake Cake

   If you’re looking to take your butterscotch cake to the next level, try incorporating a cheesecake element. Make a simple cheesecake filling with cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla, and swirl it into the batter before baking.

   This creates a rich, creamy contrast to the light and fluffy butterscotch cake. To enhance the butterscotch flavor, drizzle a bit of butterscotch sauce over the top before serving.

4. Vegan Butterscotch Cake

   For those following a plant-based diet, a vegan version of Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake is easy to make by substituting key ingredients. Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) in place of the traditional dairy components.

   You can also opt for flax eggs or chia seeds as egg replacements. To ensure the cake remains as flavorful as the original, you might consider using a vegan butterscotch sauce made from coconut cream, brown sugar, and vanilla.

5. Butterscotch And Salted Caramel Cake

   If you’re a fan of the sweet-and-salty combination, try adding a salted caramel twist to your butterscotch cake. You can drizzle salted caramel sauce over the top of the cake after it’s baked or swirl it into the batter for a more integrated flavor. The addition of sea salt cuts through the richness of the butterscotch, offering a delightful balance that’s both luxurious and comforting.

These variations add unique twists to an already delicious recipe, allowing you to cater to different dietary preferences or simply enjoy a fresh take on a classic dessert. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these variations bring something extra to the table.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake is one of those indulgent desserts that tends to disappear quickly, but in case you have leftovers, knowing how to store them properly ensures the cake stays fresh and tasty. Here are some best practices for storing your leftover cake:

1. Room Temperature Storage

   If you plan to consume the leftover cake within a couple of days, storing it at room temperature is perfectly fine. Make sure the cake is fully cooled before wrapping it in an airtight container or covering it tightly with plastic wrap.

   If possible, place a layer of parchment paper between the cake layers to prevent them from sticking together. Stored this way, the cake should stay fresh for about 2-3 days.

2. Refrigeration

   If you expect to keep the cake for a longer period, refrigerating it is the best option. Butterscotch cake can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5-7 days. Refrigerating the cake can help retain moisture, but keep in mind that the cold may affect the texture of the frosting or toppings if not wrapped well.

3. Freezing For Long-Term Storage

   For even longer storage, freezing is the best option. If you have leftover cake that you don’t plan to eat in the next few days, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months.

   First, ensure the cake is completely cooled. Then, wrap each individual slice or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil.

   Alternatively, you can place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe zip-top bag to protect it from freezer burn. To thaw, simply leave the cake in the fridge overnight and allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

4. Maintaining Freshness Of Toppings

   If your butterscotch cake is topped with frosting or butterscotch sauce, these toppings may lose their texture when stored for extended periods. To preserve the freshness of the frosting, you may choose to store it separately and apply it to the cake just before serving. This ensures the frosting doesn’t become too firm or melt, maintaining the cake’s appealing presentation and flavor.

By following these best practices, your leftover Mary Berry Butterscotch Cake will stay fresh and delicious for several days, allowing you to enjoy this sweet treat for longer.

What Goes Well With Butterscotch Cake

Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake is so flavorful and rich that it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, drinks, and additions that complement its sweetness and texture. Here are some ideas to take your dessert experience to the next level:

1. Whipped Cream

   The light and airy texture of whipped cream balances the dense, rich flavors of the butterscotch cake beautifully. A simple dollop of freshly whipped cream, lightly sweetened and perhaps a touch of vanilla extract, provides a luxurious and creamy contrast to the sweet cake. For an extra twist, you can infuse the cream with cinnamon or nutmeg for an autumnal touch.

2. Ice Cream

   For those who love decadent desserts, a scoop of vanilla, caramel, or cinnamon ice cream makes a perfect pairing with butterscotch cake. The cold, creamy ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the warm, moist cake, enhancing its flavors. If you want a bit of crunch, try adding crushed nuts or a drizzle of chocolate sauce over the ice cream.

3. Fruit Compote

   A tangy fruit compote can cut through the sweetness of the butterscotch cake, providing a refreshing contrast. A compote made with berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, or even poached pears, adds a slight tartness that helps balance the richness of the cake. The natural sweetness of the fruit also complements the caramelized flavor of the butterscotch.

4. Tea Or Coffee

   A warm beverage like a cup of black tea or freshly brewed coffee is an excellent choice to accompany butterscotch cake. The bitterness of coffee or the slight astringency of tea balances the sweet richness of the cake. If you prefer a more indulgent option, try pairing it with a rich latte or cappuccino, where the smooth milkiness harmonizes with the cake’s flavor.

5. Caramel Sauce Or Butterscotch Drizzle

   For a truly indulgent treat, serve your butterscotch cake with a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce or extra butterscotch sauce. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a luscious, gooey texture that makes every bite even more irresistible.

By pairing Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake with complementary sides or drinks, you can create an elevated dessert experience that will impress guests or make an everyday treat feel like a special occasion.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake is a classic dessert that has stood the test of time, beloved for its moist texture, rich flavor, and decadent sweetness. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with different variations, this cake remains a versatile and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. From adding nuts or bananas to making it vegan or swirling in cheesecake filling, there are countless ways to personalize the cake to your liking.

By following the best practices for storing leftovers, you can enjoy the cake for days to come, preserving its flavor and texture. And when it comes to what pairs well with it, the possibilities are endless, from whipped cream and fruit compote to ice cream or a hot beverage.

No matter how you enjoy it, Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake is sure to remain a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire, bringing joy and deliciousness to your table every time you make it.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake?

Mary Berry’s butterscotch cake requires ingredients like unsalted butter, light brown sugar, eggs, self-raising flour, baking powder, buttermilk, and a pinch of salt. You’ll also need golden syrup and vanilla extract for the butterscotch flavor.

How Do You Make The Butterscotch Icing For The Cake?

To make the butterscotch icing, melt butter with brown sugar in a saucepan until smooth. Then, add cream and cook for a few minutes. Remove from heat, and allow it to cool slightly before mixing in icing sugar to form a smooth consistency.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Sugar In Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake Recipe?

While light brown sugar is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can substitute it with dark brown sugar for a deeper molasses flavor. You can also use granulated sugar, but it might affect the richness of the butterscotch flavor.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake Without Buttermilk?

Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before using it as a replacement.

What Is The Best Way To Store Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake?

Store Mary Berry’s butterscotch cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake without the icing and thaw it at room temperature before serving.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that it also contains a leavening agent. Just check the consistency of the batter and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it’s not too thick or thin.

How Long Does Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake Take To Bake?

The baking time for Mary Berry’s butterscotch cake is typically around 25-30 minutes at 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Check the cake by inserting a skewer in the center – if it comes out clean, it’s done.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake In Advance?

Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days. For best results, decorate with the butterscotch icing just before serving.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Butterscotch Cake?

Mary Berry’s butterscotch cake is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Can I Make The Butterscotch Cake As Cupcakes Instead Of A Whole Cake?

Yes, you can turn the butterscotch cake into cupcakes. Simply divide the batter evenly into cupcake liners and bake for about 18-20 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean. Once cooled, top with the butterscotch icing.