Mary Berry Iced Chocolate Traybake With Fudge Icing Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re in the mood for a deliciously indulgent treat, Mary Berry’s iced chocolate traybake with fudge icing is a must-try!

It’s the perfect combination of rich, chocolatey goodness and smooth, velvety fudge icing that’ll satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving something comforting, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, easy to make, and promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Plus, with Mary Berry’s trusted expertise, you know you’re in for a classic, foolproof bake that’s sure to impress!

Mary Berry Iced Chocolate Traybake With Fudge Icing Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake with Fudge Icing, you’ll need to gather a variety of ingredients that work together to create a rich, indulgent dessert. These ingredients combine to form a moist, chocolatey sponge, and a smooth, creamy fudge icing that beautifully complements the cake. Here’s the complete list of what you’ll need:

For The Traybake Cake

1. Self-Raising Flour (200g)

   Self-raising flour is essential as it already contains a leavening agent like baking powder, helping your traybake rise beautifully and become light and fluffy.

2. Cocoa Powder (50g)

   Unsweetened cocoa powder provides the base of the chocolate flavor in the cake, ensuring a rich and satisfying taste without being overly sweet.

3. Caster Sugar (200g)

   Caster sugar, a finer sugar than regular granulated, dissolves more easily and helps to achieve a smoother texture in the cake.

4. Butter (200g, softened)

   Butter adds moisture and flavor to the cake, helping to create a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

5. Eggs (3 large)

   Eggs provide structure to the cake, helping it rise and set as it bakes while also adding richness.

6. Milk (150ml)

   Milk adds moisture and helps to balance out the dry ingredients, creating a tender and smooth batter.

7. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp)

   A dash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the cake, complementing the chocolate while offering a subtle aromatic sweetness.

8. Baking Powder (1 tsp)

   Although self-raising flour already includes leavening, adding a little extra baking powder ensures the cake rises nicely and has the perfect texture.

For The Fudge Icing

1. Butter (100g, softened)

   Butter is the key ingredient in the fudge icing, giving it a creamy, rich consistency.

2. Icing Sugar (200g)

   Icing sugar, also known as powdered sugar, dissolves easily into the butter, creating a smooth and silky icing texture.

3. Cocoa Powder (30g)

   Cocoa powder in the icing deepens the chocolate flavor, making the icing even more decadent and flavorful.

4. Milk (3 tbsp)

   The milk helps to loosen the icing to the right consistency, making it spreadable and easy to work with.

5. Golden Syrup (2 tbsp)

   Golden syrup adds a slight caramel flavor and helps the icing set with a glossy finish.

6. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp)

   A small splash of vanilla extract in the icing enhances the flavor, giving it a subtle but noticeable depth.

Equipment Needed

To make this delicious traybake, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment. Having the right tools will make the baking process smoother, and help you achieve the best results. Here’s the full list of what you’ll need:

1. Baking Tray (Approximately 30×23 cm)

   A standard baking tray is perfect for this recipe. The dimensions allow the cake to cook evenly, ensuring it rises nicely and cooks through without being too thick or too thin. It’s essential to line it with parchment paper or grease it properly to prevent sticking.

2. Mixing Bowls (2-3 medium-sized)

   You’ll need at least two mixing bowls: one for the cake batter and one for the fudge icing. A third can be useful for separating dry and wet ingredients.

3. Electric Mixer or Whisk

   While you can mix by hand, an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer will make the process much faster and give you a lighter, fluffier batter. It’s especially helpful for beating butter and sugar together to create a smooth, creamy consistency.

4. Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer

   Sifting the dry ingredients, like the flour and cocoa powder, ensures they’re lump-free and evenly distributed throughout the batter. This helps the cake texture remain smooth and consistent.

5. Spatula or Wooden Spoon

   A spatula is ideal for mixing and scraping down the sides of bowls, while a wooden spoon can be used for stirring in the wet and dry ingredients when preparing the cake batter.

6. Palette Knife or Offset Spatula

   This tool is perfect for spreading the fudge icing smoothly over the cooled cake. Its flat blade helps you achieve an even, professional-looking finish.

7. Cooling Rack

   After the cake is baked, it’s important to let it cool on a cooling rack so that the air circulates around it and it doesn’t become soggy. This also helps it cool faster.

8. Measuring Cups and Spoons

   Precise measurements are key to getting the right texture and flavor in both the cake and the icing. A set of measuring cups and spoons will ensure you’re adding just the right amounts of each ingredient.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake With Fudge Icing

Making Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake with Fudge Icing is an enjoyable process that rewards you with a mouthwatering treat at the end. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect traybake.

Step 1: Preheat The Oven And Prepare The Tray

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease your baking tray (approximately 30×23 cm) with butter or line it with parchment paper. This ensures that the cake doesn’t stick and that it comes out cleanly after baking.

Step 2: Prepare The Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed and free from lumps.

In another bowl, use your electric mixer or hand whisk to cream the butter and caster sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until everything is combined, and you have a smooth, slightly runny batter.

Step 3: Bake The Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread it out evenly using a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake it, as this can make the cake dry.

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tray for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before icing.

Step 4: Make The Fudge Icing

While the cake cools, prepare the fudge icing. In a saucepan, melt the butter and golden syrup over low heat.

Once melted, remove from the heat and whisk in the cocoa powder, icing sugar, and milk. The mixture should be smooth and glossy. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

Stir in the vanilla extract, then allow the icing to cool slightly to thicken. It should be the perfect consistency to spread over the cake without running off.

Step 5: Ice The Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the fudge icing generously over the top using a palette knife. Smooth it out evenly across the surface, covering the entire cake. For a professional finish, try to make the icing level and smooth, with just a slight overhang at the edges.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy!

Cut the cake into squares or slices, and serve. This traybake can be kept in an airtight container for several days, making it a great option for parties, gatherings, or as a simple treat for yourself!

Expert Tips

To ensure that your Iced Chocolate Traybake with Fudge Icing turns out perfectly every time, here are a few expert tips to keep in mind:

1. Sift the Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder can be clumpy, which might lead to uneven distribution in the batter. Sifting it first ensures a smooth, even cake.

2. Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, use butter, eggs, and milk that are all at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle, resulting in a dense or uneven cake.

3. Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

4. Test the Cake for Doneness: Ovens vary, so check the cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.

5. Let the Icing Set: After spreading the icing, let it set at room temperature before cutting the cake. This helps it firm up and prevents it from smudging when you slice.

Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake with Fudge Icing is a wonderful, easy-to-make dessert that combines a rich, chocolatey sponge with a smooth, indulgent fudge icing. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you crave something sweet, this traybake is sure to impress. With its simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and expert tips, it’s an ideal recipe for bakers of all levels.

This traybake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a treat for the eyes, with its glossy, velvety icing and perfectly baked sponge. So, grab your apron and your ingredients, and get ready to create a show-stopping dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake With Fudge Icing

Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake with Fudge Icing is a classic indulgence-rich, decadent, and just the right balance of chocolate and sweetness. While the original recipe is a crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of creative ways to modify or enhance it, depending on personal preferences or available ingredients. Here are a few easy recipe variations that can elevate this beloved treat.

1. Add Fruits For A Fresh Twist

You can easily infuse the traybake with a burst of natural sweetness by incorporating fresh fruits. Sliced bananas, raspberries, or even chunks of strawberries work wonderfully with the fudgy texture of the cake. Simply fold the fruit into the batter before baking, or lightly sprinkle the fruit on top before icing for a fresh contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.

2. Experiment With Nuts And Seeds

For a bit of crunch and texture contrast, consider adding a handful of chopped nuts or seeds. Walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts bring a nice bite and complement the chocolate flavor.

You can also sprinkle toasted seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds on top of the fudge icing before it sets. This variation adds an unexpected yet delightful savory note to balance the cake’s sweetness.

3. Swap The Cocoa For White Chocolate

If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, swap the cocoa powder in the traybake for white chocolate. This version creates a milder, sweeter flavor and pairs beautifully with a white chocolate or even a creamy vanilla icing. The fudge icing can also be substituted with a white chocolate ganache for a richer, more indulgent treat.

4. Infuse With Flavored Liquor Or Extracts

For an extra layer of flavor, consider infusing the cake batter or the icing with a touch of liquor or extract. A teaspoon of rum, bourbon, or even Irish whiskey can bring a sophisticated, adult twist to the traybake. Alternatively, try adding vanilla, almond, or orange extract to the batter for a subtle change that will complement the chocolate without overpowering it.

5. Make It Vegan

For those following a plant-based diet, you can easily adapt the recipe to be vegan-friendly by swapping the eggs and butter for plant-based alternatives. Use flax eggs or chia eggs to replace the eggs, and replace the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil.

Ensure that the chocolate used is dairy-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe. For the icing, swap regular butter for a plant-based counterpart, and use coconut cream or non-dairy milk to create the fudge consistency.

6. Change The Icing

While the original fudge icing is smooth and glossy, why not shake things up a bit?

A salted caramel icing would pair wonderfully with the chocolate traybake, adding a delightful contrast between sweet and savory. Alternatively, an espresso or coffee-flavored icing could bring out a deeper, more complex flavor in the cake, making it perfect for coffee lovers.

7. Go Gluten-Free

If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute regular flour with a good-quality gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that works well for cakes to maintain the texture and crumb of the traybake. You might need to add a bit more liquid to the batter to achieve the desired consistency, but the result will still be just as satisfying.

By experimenting with these variations, you can customize the Iced Chocolate Traybake to suit your mood or occasion. Whether you’re catering to dietary needs or simply feeling adventurous in the kitchen, these modifications make the recipe versatile enough for all tastes.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

After indulging in a slice (or several) of Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake, chances are you’ll have some leftovers to store. Proper storage ensures that the traybake stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible, preserving its fudgy texture and decadent icing. Here are the best practices to store your leftovers and make the most of them.

1. Cool Before Storing

Before storing the traybake, always allow it to cool completely. If it’s still warm when you store it, condensation can form inside the storage container, which could make the cake soggy and affect its texture. Let the traybake rest for at least an hour before cutting it into squares and transferring it to storage.

2. Use Airtight Containers

For optimal freshness, store the traybake in an airtight container. This helps to seal in moisture and prevents the cake from drying out.

You can stack the pieces of traybake with parchment paper between each layer to avoid them sticking to one another. If you don’t have an airtight container, wrapping the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil will also work well.

3. Refrigeration For Longer Freshness

While the traybake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, refrigeration is a good option if you want to extend its shelf life. The cake will stay fresh for up to a week when refrigerated. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving, as the fudge icing may harden slightly in the fridge.

4. Freezing For Extended Storage

If you find yourself with a large batch and want to store it for an even longer period, freezing is a great option. Cut the traybake into individual slices, and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.

Then place all the wrapped slices into a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply remove the slices from the freezer and let them thaw for about 30 minutes to an hour. You’ll get nearly the same texture as fresh, and the chocolatey goodness will still shine through.

5. Avoid Storing In Direct Sunlight

It’s also important to store your traybake away from direct sunlight or sources of heat. Sunlight can melt the icing, making it too soft, and can also affect the overall texture of the cake, causing it to dry out faster.

By following these simple storage guidelines, you can ensure that your leftovers remain as fresh and indulgent as when they were first made. Storing the traybake properly allows you to savor every last bite, whether you’re enjoying it the next day or weeks down the line.

What Goes Well With Iced Chocolate Traybake With Fudge Icing

While Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake with Fudge Icing is a delight on its own, it can be paired with a variety of beverages and sides to elevate the overall experience. Here are a few complementary options that pair perfectly with this rich, indulgent treat.

1. Coffee Or Espresso

There’s nothing quite like the pairing of a rich chocolate cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a bold espresso. The bitterness of the coffee balances out the sweetness of the traybake, bringing out the cake’s deep chocolate flavor. A cappuccino or flat white would work wonderfully too, as the creamy milk complements the fudgy icing.

2. Milk (or Plant-Based Alternatives)

For a classic pairing, serve the traybake with a cold glass of milk. The richness of the milk complements the chocolatey sweetness of the cake and helps to mellow out the indulgence. If you prefer plant-based options, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk make great choices, offering a slightly different flavor profile that still pairs wonderfully with the chocolatey goodness.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

For a true indulgence, serve a slice of the traybake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy texture of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the fudgy, dense cake. If you’re feeling extra decadent, try drizzling some chocolate sauce or caramel over the top.

4. Berries Or Fruit Compote

The richness of the cake calls for something fresh to balance it out. Fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries offer a tart contrast to the sweet chocolate.

A warm fruit compote, made from berries, apples, or stone fruit, also works wonderfully when served alongside the traybake. The slight tanginess of the fruit cuts through the sweetness and offers a refreshing contrast.

5. Tea

For those who prefer a more subdued pairing, a nice cup of tea is always an excellent choice. Earl Grey, with its fragrant citrus notes, can cut through the richness of the cake, while a classic English Breakfast or Darjeeling brings out the chocolate’s deeper tones. For a more herbal option, chamomile or mint tea can provide a refreshing and light accompaniment.

6. Whipped Cream Or Clotted Cream

If you’re looking to truly treat yourself, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or clotted cream is the perfect complement. The richness of the cream enhances the texture of the traybake and adds a luxurious finish. You could even flavor the whipped cream with vanilla or a touch of cinnamon for extra depth.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake with Fudge Icing is a timeless treat that satisfies both the chocolate lover and the casual baker alike. Whether you’re enjoying it in its classic form or experimenting with new flavors and variations, this traybake is endlessly adaptable.

With the right storage techniques, you can make the most of leftovers, keeping your cake fresh and ready to enjoy for days. And when it comes to pairing, there’s no shortage of options-coffee, tea, ice cream, or even a simple glass of milk can elevate the experience.

This traybake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen, share something delicious with loved ones, and indulge in a little slice of happiness.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake With Fudge Icing?

The main ingredients include flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, sugar, eggs, butter, milk, and vanilla extract for the traybake. For the fudge icing, you’ll need butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and milk.

Can I Substitute Any Ingredients In This Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute dairy-free butter and milk to make it dairy-free. You can also use a gluten-free flour blend if you’re avoiding gluten, although the texture may vary slightly.

How Long Should I Bake The Traybake For?

Mary Berry recommends baking the traybake for about 25-30 minutes at 180°C (160°C fan-assisted) or 350°F (320°F fan-assisted). Be sure to check with a skewer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Can I Make The Fudge Icing In Advance?

Yes, you can make the fudge icing in advance. Allow it to cool and store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days before spreading it on the traybake.

What Is The Best Way To Store The Iced Chocolate Traybake?

Once the traybake is iced, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, you can refrigerate it, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving.

Can I Freeze The Iced Chocolate Traybake With Fudge Icing?

Yes, you can freeze the traybake without the icing for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Once defrosted, you can add the fudge icing before serving.

How Thick Should The Fudge Icing Be?

The fudge icing should have a smooth, spreadable consistency. If it is too thick, you can add a little more milk to thin it out. If it is too thin, add more powdered sugar to achieve the right texture.

Can I Add Other Toppings Or Decorations To The Iced Chocolate Traybake?

Absolutely!

You can top the traybake with chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even mini marshmallows. Just be sure the fudge icing has set before adding any extra toppings.

What Size Tray Should I Use For Mary Berry’s Iced Chocolate Traybake?

Mary Berry recommends using a 30 x 23 cm (12 x 9 inch) rectangular baking tray for this recipe. This size ensures the traybake bakes evenly and has the right thickness.

Is This Iced Chocolate Traybake Suitable For A Crowd?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for serving a crowd!

It makes a generous amount of cake, and you can cut it into squares for easy serving. The traybake can also be doubled if you need a larger batch.