Mary Berry Dorset Apple Traybake Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a deliciously simple yet irresistible treat, you absolutely have to try Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake!

With its perfect blend of sweet, tender apples and a light, buttery sponge, this recipe is a comforting classic that’s ideal for any occasion.

What makes it even better?

It’s incredibly easy to make, and the end result is a traybake that’s not only full of flavor but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Plus, the warmth of cinnamon and apples makes it a cozy choice for any season, making it a must-try for anyone who loves baking or simply indulging in a homemade dessert.

Mary Berry Dorset Apple Traybake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s classic Dorset Apple Traybake, you’ll need a selection of fresh ingredients that come together to produce a beautifully moist and comforting cake. The following are the key ingredients for this delicious bake:

1. Self-Raising Flour: The foundation of any cake, self-raising flour is used to provide the right amount of rise and fluffiness without needing additional leavening agents. It ensures that the traybake has a light, airy texture.

2. Caster Sugar: Caster sugar is fine-grained sugar that dissolves quickly, creating a smooth and even sweetness throughout the batter. It adds to the cake’s delicate crumb and balances the tartness of the apples.

3. Butter: Softened butter gives the cake a rich, moist texture and adds depth to the flavor. It’s important to ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy incorporation into the batter.

4. Eggs: Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients together, helping to create a smooth batter, and providing structure to the cake. They also contribute moisture, making the finished cake tender.

5. Baking Powder: Although self-raising flour already has some leavening, baking powder provides an extra lift to ensure the traybake rises perfectly. It’s essential for achieving that ideal soft and spongy texture.

6. Apples: A central component of the recipe, the apples are what give the cake its signature flavor and moisture. Mary Berry suggests using eating apples like Bramleys, which hold their shape well when baked and provide a tart contrast to the sweetness of the batter.

7. Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic spice to the cake that complements the apples beautifully. It brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit and enhances the overall flavor profile.

8. Milk: Milk helps loosen the batter to the right consistency and adds moisture to the cake. It works in harmony with the other ingredients to ensure a smooth, velvety texture.

9. Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice helps balance the sweetness of the cake while adding a bright, zesty flavor. It also helps to prevent the apples from oxidizing before baking.

10. Vanilla Extract: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor and gives the cake a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the apples and cinnamon.

11. Demerara Sugar: This crunchy, golden-brown sugar is sprinkled on top of the cake before baking. It adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of caramel-like sweetness to the top of the traybake, elevating its texture and flavor.

These simple, yet flavorful ingredients are all you need to create a delightful traybake that captures the essence of Dorset’s famous apple orchards.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake, you’ll need the following pieces of kitchen equipment to ensure the process is smooth and the result is perfect:

1. Baking Tray (approx. 9×13 inches): A rectangular baking tray, roughly 9×13 inches in size, is essential for spreading out the cake batter and achieving an even bake. This size allows the cake to rise evenly while remaining moist, creating the ideal traybake texture.

2. Mixing Bowls: A large mixing bowl is necessary to combine the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, cinnamon, etc.) and the wet ingredients (eggs, butter, milk, etc.). You’ll also need a smaller bowl for the dry ingredients and another to whisk the eggs, helping to keep everything organized.

3. Electric Mixer (Optional): While you can mix everything by hand, an electric hand mixer or stand mixer will make the process faster and more efficient. It will help beat the butter and sugar together to a smooth consistency and ensure the batter is well-combined without overworking the ingredients.

4. Spatula or Wooden Spoon: You’ll need a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients together. These tools help you fold in the dry ingredients gently and ensure that the batter doesn’t become too dense.

5. Peeler and Knife: For preparing the apples, a sharp knife and a vegetable peeler will help you easily peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks. You want them to be uniform in size so they cook evenly and add a consistent texture to the cake.

6. Grater: A grater is helpful for zesting the lemon, which adds a refreshing note to the flavor. You’ll also need it to finely grate the apple if you prefer a smoother texture for the batter.

7. Cooling Rack: After baking, allow the traybake to cool on a wire rack. This ensures even cooling, which prevents the cake from becoming soggy by trapping steam underneath.

8. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to a successful bake. Having a set of measuring cups and spoons ensures you’re using the correct proportions of each ingredient.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake

Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this lovely Dorset Apple Traybake. The recipe is straightforward, yet the result is absolutely delicious.

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F), or 160°C (320°F) for a fan-assisted oven. This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the cake.

2. Prepare the Tray: Grease your baking tray with butter or line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and ensures easy removal after baking.

3. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks or slices, depending on your texture preference. Set them aside in a bowl with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.

4. Make the Batter: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft and airy cake. Use an electric mixer to beat them together for around 2-3 minutes.

5. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This prevents the mixture from curdling.

6. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, cinnamon, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with adding the milk to create a smooth batter.

7. Incorporate the Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples into the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the batter light and fluffy.

8. Bake the Traybake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the demerara sugar over the top to give the cake a lovely, crunchy texture once baked. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for around 40-45 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and a skewer comes out clean when inserted into the center.

9. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tray for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares or slices.

Expert Tips

To ensure your Dorset Apple Traybake turns out perfectly every time, consider these expert tips:

• Use the Right Apples: Choosing the right variety of apples is key. Mary Berry recommends Bramley apples, which are tart and break down beautifully in the bake. However, if you prefer a sweeter cake, you can use a mix of Bramleys and a sweeter variety like Gala or Cox’s Orange Pippin.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When folding in the dry ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a dense and heavy cake, so mix until just combined. The less you handle the batter, the fluffier the traybake will be.

• Let the Cake Cool: Cooling the traybake on a wire rack helps prevent it from becoming soggy, as air can circulate around it and allow excess moisture to evaporate.

• Experiment with Spices: While cinnamon is the traditional spice for this traybake, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth and complexity. A pinch of ground cloves can also add a lovely depth of flavor.

• Don’t Skip the Demerara Sugar: The crunchy topping of demerara sugar adds a lovely texture contrast to the soft cake. If you don’t have it, brown sugar can work as a substitute, but it won’t offer quite the same crunch.

Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake is a quintessentially British dessert, perfect for autumn gatherings, family tea times, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. The combination of moist, cinnamon-spiced cake and tender apples creates a balanced and comforting treat that never goes out of style.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is accessible and rewarding, with its rich flavor and simple preparation. With the right ingredients, equipment, and a few expert tips, you’ll be able to recreate this delightful classic with ease, bringing the heart of Dorset to your kitchen.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake

Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake is a classic dessert that has captured the hearts of many with its simple yet delightful flavors. While the traditional recipe is undeniably delicious, there are several easy and creative variations that you can try to put your own spin on this crowd-pleasing treat.

1. Spiced Apple Traybake

   For a warm, comforting twist, consider adding a blend of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the batter. The addition of these spices enhances the apple’s natural sweetness, making it perfect for autumn and winter months. You can either sprinkle the spices directly into the batter or mix them with the flour before adding it to the wet ingredients.

2. Sultanas or Raisins

   Adding dried fruit such as sultanas or raisins provides a chewy contrast to the tender apples in the traybake. Simply stir in about 100g of dried fruit into the batter along with the chopped apples. The natural sweetness of the raisins or sultanas pairs beautifully with the tartness of the apples, making each bite more flavorful.

3. Nutty Apple Traybake

   If you love a bit of crunch in your dessert, try folding in chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts. The nuts add a delightful texture to the cake and give it a rich, toasty flavor. Lightly toast the nuts before mixing them into the batter to enhance their nuttiness and bring out their full flavor.

4. Caramelized Apple Topping

   While the traybake itself is delicious, you can elevate it by adding a caramelized apple topping. Slice the apples thinly and cook them in butter and brown sugar until they soften and turn golden brown.

   Once they’ve cooled slightly, arrange them over the baked traybake for an extra layer of richness and sweetness. The caramelized apples not only add an extra dimension of flavor but also create an appealing, glossy finish.

5. Apple and Blackberry Traybake

   For a fruity twist, try adding blackberries along with the apples. The tartness of the blackberries balances the sweetness of the apples, creating a complex and refreshing flavor profile.

   Toss the blackberries in a little flour before mixing them into the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom. You could also top the traybake with a few blackberries for a stunning visual effect.

6. Vegan Dorset Apple Traybake

   If you’re looking for a plant-based version, you can easily make the Dorset Apple Traybake vegan. Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.

   5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a plant-based butter or oil. You can also opt for non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk. To ensure the cake remains just as moist, consider adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the batter.

These variations open up a world of possibilities, whether you’re catering to dietary preferences or simply seeking a new twist on a beloved recipe. The beauty of Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake lies in its versatility and how well it adapts to different flavor combinations.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Dorset Apple Traybake, like many cakes, tends to taste best fresh from the oven, but it’s also wonderfully forgiving and can be enjoyed for several days after baking. If you find yourself with leftovers, proper storage is essential to keep the traybake fresh and moist.

1. Allow the Traybake to Cool

   Before storing your Dorset Apple Traybake, allow it to cool completely. If you store the cake while it’s still warm, the moisture from the steam can cause it to become soggy and affect the texture. Cooling also prevents condensation from forming in your storage container, which could lead to unwanted moisture.

2. Airtight Storage

   To keep your traybake fresh, store it in an airtight container. An airtight box will help preserve the cake’s moisture while also preventing it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the surrounding environment. If you don’t have an airtight container large enough, wrap the traybake tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

3. Refrigeration

   If you plan to keep the Dorset Apple Traybake for more than a couple of days, storing it in the fridge is a good idea. The cold will help prolong its freshness.

   However, be sure to place it in an airtight container to prevent the cake from drying out. The fridge can sometimes make cakes feel a bit firmer, but you can always microwave a slice for a few seconds to bring it back to room temperature or enjoy it warm.

4. Freezing for Longer Storage

   Dorset Apple Traybake also freezes well, which makes it a great option if you want to prepare it ahead of time or save some for later. Slice the cake into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

   When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or heat it in the microwave or oven. This is a great way to extend the life of your cake without sacrificing its flavor and texture.

5. Serving After Storage

   When serving leftover Dorset Apple Traybake, check the texture and moisture level. If it has become slightly dry, a drizzle of custard, cream, or a scoop of ice cream can bring back its delicious appeal. Additionally, a quick reheat in the microwave for a few seconds can bring back some of the traybake’s soft, fresh-from-the-oven texture.

By following these storage tips, you can make sure that your Dorset Apple Traybake remains as enjoyable as it was on the first day.

What Goes Well With Dorset Apple Traybake

Dorset Apple Traybake is a versatile dessert that pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re looking to serve it as part of an afternoon tea, after a hearty meal, or as a sweet treat to share with friends, here are some ideas on what goes beautifully with this classic cake:

1. Custard

   A warm, creamy custard is a timeless pairing with apple-based desserts, and it works wonderfully with Dorset Apple Traybake. The smoothness and slight sweetness of custard complement the texture and flavor of the traybake, making each bite rich and indulgent. You can use store-bought custard or make your own for an extra special touch.

2. Clotted Cream

   For an indulgent British touch, serve the traybake with clotted cream. Its richness and thick, velvety texture add a luxurious element to the dessert.

   The cream’s slight sweetness perfectly balances the slight tartness of the apples in the traybake. It’s a simple yet satisfying combination.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

   The cool, creamy contrast of vanilla ice cream makes a fantastic pairing with the warm, spiced flavors of the traybake. The richness of the ice cream complements the cake without overpowering the apple flavor, making it a family-friendly favorite. You can also experiment with other flavors like caramel or cinnamon ice cream for an extra twist.

4. Whipped Cream

   Light, fluffy whipped cream can be a refreshing accompaniment to the Dorset Apple Traybake, offering a soft, airy texture that contrasts with the dense and moist cake. A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the cream can elevate the presentation and flavor, enhancing the overall experience.

5. Tea or Coffee

   A hot cup of tea or coffee is always an excellent partner for a cake like Dorset Apple Traybake. The slight bitterness of the coffee or the subtle floral notes of a tea like Earl Grey or Darjeeling balance the sweetness of the cake. If you’re looking to create a more sophisticated pairing, consider serving it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.

6. Caramel Sauce

   Drizzling a little warm caramel sauce over the top of the traybake can add a luscious, buttery flavor that pairs wonderfully with the apples. The rich, golden sweetness of the caramel works beautifully with the soft and tender cake, enhancing its overall flavor.

These additions elevate the experience of enjoying Dorset Apple Traybake, making it a truly memorable dessert.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake is a beloved classic that showcases the simple joy of apples in a cake. Whether you choose to stick with the traditional version or experiment with different variations, this traybake is versatile enough to suit a wide range of tastes and occasions. From adding spices or dried fruit to trying vegan alternatives, there are plenty of ways to personalize this recipe.

Proper storage ensures that any leftovers remain just as delicious as the first slice, while serving it with accompaniments like custard, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream elevates the dessert to new heights. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a tea party, or just a sweet treat for yourself, Dorset Apple Traybake is sure to be a hit every time.

FAQs

What Is Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake Recipe?

Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake is a delicious, moist cake that features chunks of fresh apples, a soft sponge base, and a light, buttery flavor. It’s traditionally made with Bramley apples, which give it a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake.

What Kind Of Apples Are Best For Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake?

The recipe typically calls for Bramley apples, which are tart and cook well in baked goods. However, you can also use other varieties like Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart apples, depending on your taste preference.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Flour In This Recipe?

For the best results, it’s recommended to use plain flour as specified in the recipe. However, if you prefer, you can substitute some of the flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.

How Do I Make The Dorset Apple Traybake Extra Moist?

To ensure your Dorset Apple Traybake is moist, be sure to use fresh, juicy apples and avoid over-mixing the batter. Additionally, adding a little bit of sour cream or yogurt can help add extra moisture to the cake.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake In Advance?

Yes, you can make the traybake in advance. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

What Can I Substitute For The Eggs In The Dorset Apple Traybake Recipe?

If you need an egg substitute, you can use alternatives like unsweetened applesauce, mashed banana, or a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) for each egg. Keep in mind, this may slightly alter the texture.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake?

Yes, you can freeze the traybake. Allow it to cool completely, then slice it and wrap it in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

It should stay fresh for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature.

How Can I Add More Flavor To Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake?

You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the batter. Additionally, a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, can provide a delightful crunch and extra richness.

Why Does My Dorset Apple Traybake Sink In The Middle?

A sink in the middle of the traybake could be caused by over-mixing the batter or opening the oven door too early during baking. Make sure the ingredients are gently folded together, and avoid checking the cake before the recommended baking time.

How Should I Serve Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake?

Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of custard for an extra indulgent treat.