Mary Berry Treacle Tart Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a classic dessert that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious, you should definitely try Mary Berry’s treacle tart recipe. Mary Berry, known for her simple yet foolproof recipes, has perfected this iconic British treat with a golden, buttery pastry and a sweet, gooey filling that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the taste of rich, syrupy goodness with a hint of zest from the lemon. Plus, it’s always a hit at family gatherings or afternoon teas!.

Mary Berry Treacle Tart Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart is a quintessential British dessert, loved for its delightful combination of sweet syrup, buttery pastry, and a touch of tangy lemon. To make this delicious treat, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Shortcrust Pastry – You can either buy pre-made shortcrust pastry or make your own from scratch. The pastry forms the base of the tart and should be crisp and slightly crumbly. If making your own, you’ll need butter, plain flour, and a little cold water to bring it all together.

2. Golden Syrup – This is the key ingredient in treacle tart. Golden syrup gives the tart its distinctive sweet flavor and rich, golden color. It has a slightly less intense sweetness than honey, which makes it perfect for this dessert.

3. Lemon Juice & Zest – The acidity from the lemon juice helps to balance out the sweetness of the golden syrup and brings a refreshing burst of flavor. The zest adds an aromatic fragrance, elevating the tart’s overall depth.

4. Breadcrumbs – White breadcrumbs, preferably from fresh bread, help to thicken the syrup filling and add a delightful texture. They give the filling a slightly gooey consistency while ensuring that the tart doesn’t become overly runny.

5. Eggs – Beaten eggs are used to bind the filling ingredients together, helping to set the syrup as it bakes. They also contribute a light richness to the filling.

6. Butter – A small amount of butter is added to the syrup filling for richness and a smooth consistency.

7. Salt – A pinch of salt is essential to balance the sweetness and enhance the other flavors in the tart.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart, you will need a few essential pieces of equipment to ensure that the process goes smoothly and the result is perfect:

1. 9-inch Tart Tin or Fluted Tart Pan – A good-quality tart tin with a removable base is essential for getting a crisp and even base. The fluted edges also give the tart a beautiful, professional finish.

2. Rolling Pin – If you’re making your own pastry, you’ll need a rolling pin to roll it out evenly. A marble rolling pin is ideal as it stays cool and doesn’t warm up the pastry as you work with it.

3. Mixing Bowls – You’ll need a few bowls for mixing the filling ingredients, as well as a separate bowl for beating the eggs. A large bowl for the syrup mixture and a smaller one for any dry ingredients is ideal.

4. Grater or Zester – For the lemon zest, you’ll need either a fine grater or a zester to extract the oils from the lemon peel without getting any of the bitter white pith.

5. Whisk or Fork – To beat the eggs and mix the ingredients together thoroughly, a simple whisk or fork will do the trick. You’ll need to make sure everything is well combined before adding it to the pastry shell.

6. Baking Paper & Baking Weights – When blind-baking the pastry, you’ll need baking paper or parchment and some baking weights (or uncooked rice/beans) to prevent the pastry from puffing up during baking.

7. Pastry Brush – After baking the tart, you might want to brush a thin layer of butter or glaze over the top for a beautiful, glossy finish.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart

Making Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart involves two main stages: preparing the pastry and making the filling. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you recreate this iconic British dessert at home.

1. Make The Shortcrust Pastry

   • If making your own pastry, combine 225g of plain flour with 110g of cold butter in a food processor or by hand. Cut the butter into small cubes and rub it into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
   • Add a tablespoon of cold water and pulse or mix gently until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, form it into a disc, and wrap it in cling film. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare The Tart Tin

   • Roll the chilled pastry out on a floured surface to about 3mm thickness. Use your rolling pin to lift the pastry and line your tart tin, gently pressing the edges into place. Trim any excess pastry hanging over the edge.
   • Prick the base with a fork and place a sheet of baking paper inside the tart shell, filling it with baking weights or dried beans. Blind-bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for a further 5 minutes until lightly golden.

3. Make The Treacle Filling

   • While the pastry is cooling, prepare the filling. In a saucepan, melt 200g of golden syrup and 50g of butter over low heat, stirring gently until the butter is fully melted.
   • Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice and a little lemon zest to balance the sweetness.
   • Once the syrup mixture is combined, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly before whisking in the 2 beaten eggs and 75g of breadcrumbs. Add a pinch of salt and mix until smooth.

4. Assemble The Tart

   • Pour the treacle mixture into the baked pastry case. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even filling.
   • Bake the tart at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden on top. The center should still have a slight wobble.

5. Finishing Touches

   • Once the tart has cooled for a few minutes, remove it from the tart tin. Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.

Expert Tips

• Perfect Pastry: To avoid a soggy bottom, make sure your pastry shell is blind-baked properly. If you’re worried about overcooking, you can even brush a thin layer of melted butter over the base of the pastry before adding the filling. This helps seal the pastry and keeps it crisp.

• Lemon Zest: While zesting the lemon, be careful not to include the bitter white pith. The zest should be thin and aromatic to impart the perfect citrusy note to the tart.

• Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs are preferred for the best texture. Avoid using store-bought breadcrumbs, as they can be too dry and can affect the consistency of the filling.

• Golden Syrup Substitutes: If you don’t have golden syrup, you can substitute it with light corn syrup, though the flavor may be slightly different. It’s worth noting that golden syrup has a unique flavor profile that’s hard to replicate fully.

• Storage: Treacle tart can be made ahead of time. Once it’s cooled completely, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to a month-just let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart is a wonderful dessert that combines the simplicity of ingredients with an impressive and comforting outcome. The sweet, syrupy filling, coupled with the delicate pastry, makes it a beloved treat for all occasions.

Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a special celebration, or simply as a weekend indulgence, this classic British dessert is sure to be a hit. With a few expert tips and a little patience, you can create a treacle tart that’s both delicious and memorable.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart

Treacle tart is a beloved British dessert that has stood the test of time, and Mary Berry’s recipe for this iconic treat is a classic. However, there are plenty of ways to make this sweet, gooey, and sticky dessert even more exciting by adding a personal twist. Here are some simple variations you can try to elevate or alter the flavor of your treacle tart.

1. Citrus Infusion:
   If you’re looking to give your treacle tart a fresh, zesty twist, consider incorporating citrus flavors. Adding finely grated lemon or orange zest to the filling will infuse the dessert with a bright, aromatic quality that balances out the richness of the syrup. A splash of lemon juice in the filling also works well, providing a bit of tartness to counteract the sweetness.

2. Spiced Treacle Tart:
   Another easy variation is to add warm spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. These spices will give the tart a cozy, comforting flavor profile, perfect for autumn and winter. A pinch of ground cinnamon mixed into the filling or a dash of ground ginger can bring a lovely depth and warmth to the traditional recipe.

3. Nutty Treacle Tart:
   For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, adding nuts to the filling or topping the tart with crushed nuts is a fantastic variation. Chopped hazelnuts, pecans, or walnuts pair wonderfully with the rich syrup. You can either fold the nuts into the filling itself or sprinkle them on top of the tart before baking to add texture and flavor. Toasted almonds can also provide a delightful contrast.

4. Chocolate Treacle Tart:
   For chocolate lovers, try incorporating a small amount of melted dark chocolate into the filling. This addition can give the treacle tart a deep, rich flavor without overwhelming the sweetness of the golden syrup. You could also drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the baked tart or fold it into the pastry for an added indulgence.

5. Pear or Apple Treacle Tart:
   If you’re looking for a fruity variation, consider adding thin slices of pears or apples to the bottom of the tart shell before pouring the treacle mixture over them. The sweetness of the fruit complements the rich, syrupy filling beautifully, adding another layer of flavor. Pears, with their subtle floral notes, work particularly well with the treacle’s deep, caramel-like flavor.

6. Gingerbread Treacle Tart:
   A delightful twist on the traditional recipe involves adding a touch of gingerbread flavor to the crust. Mixing some ground ginger and cinnamon into the pastry dough gives the base a spiced, warm flavor that pairs beautifully with the classic syrup filling. It’s like having two comforting desserts in one!

These easy variations give Mary Berry’s treacle tart a fun, personalized twist while still respecting the timelessness of the original recipe. Feel free to experiment and adapt the flavors to your preferences or seasonal ingredients.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Treacle tart is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with its golden crust and sticky, sweet filling. However, if you have leftovers, it’s important to store them properly so you can enjoy the dessert at its best on the next day (or several days later). Here are some best practices for storing your treacle tart:

1. Cooling Down the Tart:
   Before storing, always allow your treacle tart to cool to room temperature. If you store it while it’s still warm, condensation may form inside the container, which can lead to a soggy crust. Patience here is key-let the tart sit for about 30 minutes to an hour after baking.

2. Using an Airtight Container:
   To keep the treacle tart fresh, place it in an airtight container once it’s cooled. This helps preserve its texture, keeping the crust from becoming too dry or soggy. If you don’t have an airtight container, wrapping the tart tightly in plastic wrap or foil is another good option.

3. Refrigeration:
   Although treacle tart can be stored at room temperature for a couple of days, if you plan to keep it longer than that (more than 2 days), it’s best to refrigerate it. The filling contains eggs, so refrigeration will help preserve its freshness and prevent spoilage. Keep in mind that while refrigeration can extend the life of the tart, it may affect the texture of the filling slightly, making it a little firmer when chilled.

4. Freezing Treacle Tart:
   If you want to store your treacle tart for a longer period, freezing is an option. However, freezing may alter the texture of the pastry slightly. To freeze, wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Treacle tart can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm it gently in the oven at a low temperature to restore some of its fresh-baked flavor.

5. Reheating Leftovers:
   When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover treacle tart, it’s best to warm it slightly. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and place the tart on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave, but be mindful not to overheat them, as this can lead to the syrup becoming too runny.

By following these best practices, your treacle tart leftovers can remain delicious for a few days or even weeks, allowing you to savor this scrumptious treat long after the first slice.

What Goes Well With Treacle Tart

Treacle tart is a rich and indulgent dessert on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides or drinks can elevate the experience and bring out the best in the flavors. Here are some excellent pairing ideas for your treacle tart:

1. Clotted Cream or Whipped Cream:
   The richness of clotted cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream is a classic accompaniment to treacle tart. The creamy texture balances out the sticky sweetness of the treacle filling and adds a soft, velvety mouthfeel. You can also drizzle a little honey over the cream for an extra layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tart.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream:
   If you’re craving something cold to contrast the warmth of the tart, a scoop of vanilla ice cream is an excellent choice. The creamy, mild flavor of the ice cream complements the deep, caramel notes of the treacle tart while providing a refreshing balance. For a more decadent treat, you can try salted caramel ice cream to add a touch of savory richness.

3. Fresh Berries:
   Fresh berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries, are a great way to add some tartness and color to your plate. Their bright, slightly tangy flavor cuts through the sweetness of the tart and adds a refreshing contrast. The juiciness of the berries enhances the overall balance of flavors, making every bite more dynamic.

4. Custard:
   A traditional English custard is another delightful companion for treacle tart. The rich, smooth custard pairs perfectly with the dense, sticky filling, creating a wonderfully indulgent dessert duo. You can make your custard from scratch using egg yolks, sugar, milk, and a touch of vanilla, or opt for store-bought custard for convenience.

5. Tea or Coffee:
   Since treacle tart is a British classic, pairing it with a cup of tea is a must. A strong English breakfast tea, Earl Grey, or even a herbal tea like chamomile provides a gentle bitterness that balances the sweet, syrupy richness of the tart. For coffee lovers, a freshly brewed espresso or a smooth cappuccino works wonderfully to cut through the sweetness and add an aromatic depth to the dessert experience.

6. Sherry or Dessert Wine:
   For an adult twist, a glass of sherry or a sweet dessert wine like a late-harvest Riesling can be the perfect drink pairing. The nutty, fruity notes of these wines complement the caramelized flavor of the treacle, adding an extra layer of sophistication to your dessert. Opt for a medium-dry or sweet variety to balance the sweetness of the tart.

These pairings can enhance the treacle tart experience, adding complexity and variety while maintaining the comfort and warmth that this dessert brings.

Conclusion

Treacle tart, with its sticky-sweet golden syrup filling and flaky pastry, is a beloved British dessert that has endured through generations. Mary Berry’s version remains a classic for its simplicity, but as we’ve seen, there’s plenty of room for creativity and personalization. Whether you’re infusing your tart with citrus, spicing it up with ginger, or adding a chocolate twist, there are countless ways to make this treat your own.

When it comes to leftovers, don’t worry-you can keep your treacle tart fresh for days with proper storage and even freeze it for future indulgence. And when you’re ready to enjoy a slice, consider pairing your treacle tart with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a hot cup of tea for the ultimate dessert experience.

In conclusion, treacle tart is a versatile and comforting dessert that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply indulging in a homemade treat, it’s a timeless classic that never goes out of style.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart Recipe?

Mary Berry’s treacle tart recipe typically requires shortcrust pastry, golden syrup, lemon juice, breadcrumbs, and a pinch of salt. The combination of golden syrup and breadcrumbs creates the rich and sticky filling that is characteristic of a classic treacle tart.

Can I Use A Pre-made Pastry For Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart Recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-made shortcrust pastry to save time. However, making your own pastry will give you a more authentic and buttery flavor that complements the sweet filling perfectly.

How Long Should I Bake The Treacle Tart For?

Mary Berry suggests baking the treacle tart at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden and the filling is set. Be sure to check the tart towards the end of baking to avoid overcooking the filling.

What Is The Purpose Of The Breadcrumbs In Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart?

The breadcrumbs help to absorb some of the liquid from the golden syrup, giving the filling its signature texture and preventing it from becoming too runny. They also add a slight bite to the otherwise smooth and sticky filling.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart Recipe In Advance?

Yes, you can make the treacle tart in advance. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it before baking or after it’s baked and cooled, making it a great option for preparing ahead of time.

What Should I Serve With Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart?

Treacle tart is traditionally served with a dollop of clotted cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also serve it with whipped cream or fresh berries for added flavor and texture contrast.

How Can I Make The Treacle Tart Filling Less Sweet?

If you find the filling too sweet, you can reduce the amount of golden syrup slightly. Adding a bit more lemon juice can also help to balance the sweetness by adding a touch of acidity.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Syrup In Place Of Golden Syrup?

Golden syrup is key to the distinct flavor of treacle tart, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with light corn syrup or honey. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still work as a sweet, sticky filling.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Treacle Tart Recipe Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free shortcrust pastry and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just ensure all the ingredients you use are certified gluten-free.

What Should I Do If My Treacle Tart Filling Is Too Runny?

If your treacle tart filling is too runny, it may not have been baked long enough. Ensure that the filling has fully set before removing the tart from the oven. If you encounter this issue before baking, you can add a few extra breadcrumbs to thicken the filling.