Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake is a fun, vibrant, and indulgent treat that has become a favorite for those looking for a simple yet delicious way to brighten up any occasion. As the name suggests, the dessert is a celebration of color and flavor, with a delightful mix of soft, buttery sponge and bright, colorful decorations. Inspired by her classic style of home baking, this traybake combines a rich, moist cake base with a light, airy topping, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
The "confetti" aspect comes from the generous sprinkling of colorful, sugary decorations that make it look like a party on a plate, adding a cheerful pop of color. The cake itself is often a vanilla-flavored sponge, but Mary Berry encourages creativity, allowing for adjustments in flavorings, toppings, or even the size of the confetti depending on the baker’s mood.
Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a casual tea party, or just a sweet treat to share with friends and family, Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake offers the kind of easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert that has made Mary a household name in British baking.
Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake uses basic yet high-quality ingredients that come together to create a wonderfully soft, tender cake. Below are the key ingredients you’ll need to make this indulgent treat:
- Self-Raising Flour – This is the main dry ingredient and gives the cake its structure and rise. You can substitute with plain flour and baking powder if self-raising flour is not available.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the sponge. You could also use margarine, but butter provides a better flavor.
- Caster Sugar – This fine sugar dissolves easily, ensuring a smooth batter and a lovely sweetness.
- Eggs – Fresh, large eggs help bind the cake and provide structure. Ensure they are at room temperature for the best result.
- Milk – A small amount of milk helps loosen the batter to the right consistency and makes the cake softer.
- Vanilla Extract – A few drops of pure vanilla extract add an aromatic depth to the flavor, complementing the sweetness of the sugar.
- Confetti Sprinkles – The star of the recipe! These colorful, edible sprinkles (or ‘confetti’) are what give the cake its lively and playful appearance.
- Icing Sugar – Used for the icing or glaze on top of the traybake. It can be dusted over at the end or made into a smoother glaze depending on your preference.
- Optional – You can add other elements like chocolate chips, jam, or fruit to the batter if you want to experiment with flavor combinations.
These ingredients are easy to source and typically found in most kitchens, making it an accessible recipe for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Equipment Needed
Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake is a simple recipe, and while you don’t need any specialized tools, you will need a few basic kitchen essentials to pull it all together:
- Baking Tray – A rectangular tray (approximately 9×13 inches) is ideal for this recipe. You want enough space for the cake to spread evenly, but also a shallow pan that ensures the sponge cooks through without becoming too dense.
- Mixing Bowls – A large bowl to mix your dry ingredients (flour, sugar) and a separate smaller one to whisk the eggs and milk together.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk – While you can mix the ingredients by hand, an electric mixer or stand mixer makes the process much easier and ensures a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon – To fold the ingredients together, especially when incorporating the flour into the wet mixture. A spatula works best for scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Sieve – A fine mesh sieve is essential for sifting your flour and icing sugar to remove any lumps and ensure a light, airy batter.
- Cooling Rack – Once your traybake is baked, you’ll need a cooling rack to allow the cake to cool evenly and prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Icing Brush or Spoon – To apply the icing or glaze evenly over the cake once it has cooled.
These tools make the process straightforward, and none of them are particularly difficult to source or use. The emphasis is on ease and enjoyment, so even the most novice bakers can enjoy making this traybake.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake
Making Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake is incredibly easy, and the results are nothing short of delightful. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create this fun dessert:
- Preheat Your Oven – Set the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease your baking tray with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients – In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer for this, or beat by hand. This process incorporates air into the mixture, helping the cake rise.
- Add the Eggs and Milk – Beat the eggs lightly and add them to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, one at a time. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and then add the milk. The batter should be smooth and slightly runny.
- Sift in the Dry Ingredients – Sift the self-raising flour into the wet mixture to avoid lumps. Gently fold the flour in with a spatula or wooden spoon until the ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
- Add Confetti Sprinkles – Once your batter is smooth, gently stir in your colorful confetti sprinkles. You want to keep the sprinkles intact, so fold them in gently rather than stirring too vigorously.
- Bake – Pour the batter into your prepared baking tray and smooth the top. Bake for around 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
- Cool the Cake – Let the cake cool in the tray for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Icing – While the cake cools, make the icing by mixing icing sugar with a little water or milk to create a smooth, pourable glaze. If you prefer a thicker icing, use less liquid.
- Decorate – Once the cake is cool, spread the icing evenly over the top using a spoon or an icing brush. Sprinkle more confetti on top for extra color and fun!
Tips And Tricks
- Room Temperature Ingredients – Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before starting. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy batter and uneven baking.
- Don’t Overmix – Once you’ve added the flour, mix only until just combined. Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense and heavy.
- Use Extra Sprinkles – If you want the cake to have more of a confetti effect, go wild with the sprinkles! You can add them into the batter, on top of the icing, or both for extra color and texture.
- Flavored Variations – Experiment with adding lemon zest, cocoa powder, or even a little almond extract to change up the flavor of your traybake. A dash of citrus can add a fresh twist that complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Cutting the Cake – This traybake is perfect for cutting into small squares, making it easy to serve at a party or gathering. You can also freeze individual pieces for later!
Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake is a charming and straightforward dessert that will brighten up any occasion. With its soft, buttery sponge, colorful sprinkles, and easy preparation, it’s a cake that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy the simple joys of baking. So gather your ingredients, get creative with your sprinkles, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a piece of this cheerful traybake. After all, every celebration deserves a little confetti!
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake
Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake is a joyful and vibrant treat, perfect for almost any occasion. Its light sponge, colorful sprinkles, and smooth icing create a fun, visually appealing dessert. However, the best part is that it’s versatile and adaptable! Here are some easy and delicious variations you can experiment with to make the traybake even more unique.
1. Add Fruit For Freshness
While Mary’s recipe is traditionally straightforward with a sweet, buttery base, adding fruit can provide a refreshing twist. For a fruity version, consider folding in some finely chopped fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries into the batter. The natural sweetness and slight tartness of these fruits complement the soft sponge beautifully. For an extra burst of flavor, you can also try adding lemon zest to the batter to balance the fruitiness.
2. Change The Sprinkles
Although confetti sprinkles are a staple of this traybake, you can easily switch them up based on your theme or personal preference. Rainbow sprinkles are classic, but you can opt for pastel-colored sprinkles for a more delicate look. For a festive, seasonal touch, you could use holiday-themed sprinkles like hearts for Valentine’s Day or snowflakes for Christmas. If you’re a fan of crunch, try adding some chocolate chips or crushed candy canes for an added texture boost.
3. Swap The Icing
The vanilla buttercream that typically tops the Confetti Traybake is delicious, but why not try something different? A cream cheese frosting, slightly tangy yet sweet, would offer a smooth and indulgent alternative. If you’re looking to take it up a notch, you can create a chocolate ganache or even a citrus-flavored icing with lemon or orange juice, offering a delightful contrast to the sweet sponge.
4. Gluten-Free Or Dairy-Free Options
For those with dietary restrictions, it’s easy to adapt Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake. A gluten-free version can be made by swapping the all-purpose flour for a good-quality gluten-free flour blend. If you need to make the recipe dairy-free, simply replace the butter with dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use a plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, instead of regular milk. These swaps ensure you don’t miss out on the flavor and texture that make this traybake so irresistible.
5. Add A Crunch
For a bit of crunch and contrast in texture, add chopped nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts. These nuts provide a satisfying bite against the soft sponge and the smooth frosting. Toasting the nuts beforehand enhances their flavor, making them even more aromatic and rich.
6. Incorporate Flavored Extracts
For an added layer of flavor, try infusing the batter with different extracts. Almond extract can create a lovely, nutty aroma, while coconut extract can offer a tropical touch. For a refreshing twist, you could even try mint or lavender extract, but be sure to use these in moderation as they can be quite potent.
7. Mini Traybakes Or Cupcakes
If you’re serving a crowd or want to control portion sizes, consider making individual servings by turning the Confetti Traybake into mini traybakes or cupcakes. This variation is perfect for parties or gatherings, and you can decorate each piece with unique toppings or flavors based on individual preferences.
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Confetti Traybake (though it’s likely to be devoured quickly!), here’s how you can store it to maintain its freshness and flavor:
1. Storing At Room Temperature
If you plan to eat the leftover traybake within a couple of days, you can simply store it at room temperature. Cover it with an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep the sponge moist and the icing from drying out. This method is ideal for short-term storage. Keep the traybake in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and it should last for about 2-3 days.
2. Refrigeration
To extend the shelf life, you can refrigerate the traybake. Wrap the entire traybake or individual slices in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerating it will keep the sponge from becoming too dry, but be aware that the icing may firm up and lose some of its original texture. The traybake should last about 5-6 days in the fridge.
3. Freezing
If you want to save the Confetti Traybake for a special occasion or simply have too many leftovers, freezing it is an excellent option. To freeze, first, let the traybake cool completely. Cut it into slices or keep it whole, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Place it in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You may need to freshen up the icing a little bit, but the sponge will remain soft and delicious.
4. Reheating
While the Confetti Traybake is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you prefer it warm. However, avoid microwaving the entire traybake, as it may dry out or cause the icing to melt unevenly.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake?
Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake is an ideal treat on its own, but if you’re looking to serve it as part of a larger spread or meal, here are some ideas to complement its sweetness and color:
1. Fresh Berries
Fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, are an excellent choice to serve alongside the traybake. Their tartness offers a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cake, making for a well-rounded dessert. You could even prepare a small fruit salad to accompany it, incorporating a variety of seasonal fruits like melon, kiwi, or mango for extra color.
2. Cream Or Custard
A dollop of fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of warm custard pairs beautifully with the Confetti Traybake. The rich, smooth texture of the cream balances the soft sponge, adding a bit of indulgence to every bite. If you’re feeling extra fancy, you could make a homemade custard with vanilla beans for an extra luxurious touch.
3. Tea Or Coffee
Mary Berry’s traybake is an iconic treat to enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it perfect for an afternoon snack or a mid-morning pick-me-up. A strong cup of black tea, like Earl Grey or Assam, complements the cake’s light, buttery flavor, while a latte or cappuccino can bring out the richness of the buttercream icing.
4. Ice Cream
If you’re serving the traybake in warmer weather, a scoop of vanilla ice cream would make a refreshing accompaniment. For a more decadent pairing, try pairing the cake with a rich salted caramel or chocolate ice cream. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream against the spongy, sweet cake is a match made in dessert heaven.
5. Fruit Sorbet
For those who prefer something lighter and more refreshing, a citrus sorbet would be an excellent choice. Lemon, orange, or berry sorbets provide a palate-cleansing element that balances the sweetness of the Confetti Traybake, making for a lighter, more zesty finish.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake is a delightful, versatile dessert that brings joy and color to any occasion. Whether you stick to the original recipe or explore creative variations, there’s no limit to the fun you can have with this cake. It’s the perfect treat for birthdays, celebrations, or just a simple afternoon snack with friends and family. From experimenting with different icings to storing leftovers for later enjoyment, this traybake adapts beautifully to various preferences and situations. Pair it with fresh fruits, a hot drink, or even a scoop of ice cream to elevate your experience. No matter how you enjoy it, one thing’s for sure-it will always bring smiles to the table!
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake?
For Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake, you’ll need the following ingredients: 200g of butter, 200g of caster sugar, 4 large eggs, 200g of self-raising flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, 2 tbsp of milk, 100g of white chocolate chips, 100g of mini marshmallows, and a variety of colorful sprinkles for decoration. The recipe also includes 1 tsp of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. All these ingredients come together to create a vibrant and delicious traybake perfect for any celebration.
How Do I Make Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake?
To make Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake, first preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C for fan ovens. Grease and line a baking tin (around 30x23cm). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then sift in the flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Add the milk to loosen the batter, mixing until smooth. Fold in the white chocolate chips and mini marshmallows. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth it out. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool before decorating with sprinkles and more mini marshmallows if desired.
Can I Customize Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake With Different Flavors Or Toppings?
Yes, Mary Berry’s Confetti Traybake is highly customizable! You can add different types of chocolate chips, such as milk or dark chocolate, or even chopped candy bars for extra texture. For a fruity twist, consider folding in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. You can also experiment with the topping by using different colored sprinkles, edible glitter, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence. The recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit your personal preferences or theme of your celebration.
