Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake is a delightful, easy-to-make cake that’s perfect for a variety of occasions. Inspired by the traditional British traybake, this recipe combines the sweetness of ripe cherries with the light, fluffy texture of a simple sponge cake. It’s a versatile treat that can be enjoyed as a quick afternoon snack with tea or coffee, or served at a family gathering, picnic, or bake sale. What sets this Cherry Traybake apart is the use of fresh or jarred cherries that bring a burst of fruity flavor into every bite.

The beauty of this traybake lies in its simplicity. Mary Berry, one of the UK’s most beloved bakers, is renowned for her ability to create foolproof, delicious recipes that are accessible to home bakers of all skill levels. The Cherry Traybake is no exception. With minimal preparation and a quick bake time, you’ll be able to enjoy a scrumptious, moist cake that’s studded with cherries and lightly dusted with sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

What makes this cake particularly special is how the cherries bake into the sponge, creating a wonderful contrast between the soft, buttery cake and the slightly tart fruit. This traybake also has the added benefit of being versatile; you can adjust the amount of sugar depending on your taste or swap in different fruits if cherries aren’t your favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this Cherry Traybake is sure to impress with its balance of flavors and easy execution.

Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Making Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake requires just a few basic ingredients that come together to form a moist, fruity cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Butter (softened) – 225g: The base of any good cake is butter, which adds richness and helps create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Caster Sugar – 225g: The perfect sweetener for cakes, caster sugar dissolves easily, ensuring the texture remains light and airy.
3. Eggs – 4 large: Eggs provide structure and moisture to the cake. They also help the batter rise.
4. Self-Raising Flour – 225g: Self-raising flour contains baking powder, so you don’t need to add any extra leavening agents. This ingredient makes the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
5. Baking Powder – 1 tsp (optional, in case you’re using plain flour): This will give your cake an extra boost, ensuring it rises to perfection.
6. Milk – 2-3 tbsp: Milk adds moisture and helps achieve a soft, tender crumb.
7. Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp: A splash of vanilla brings warmth and depth of flavor to the cake, balancing the sweetness of the cherries.
8. Cherries – 200g: Fresh or jarred cherries, pitted and chopped, are the star of this traybake. The fruit adds juiciness and flavor, with a hint of tartness to contrast the sweet sponge.
9. Icing Sugar (for dusting) – Optional: A light dusting of icing sugar adds a delicate sweetness and makes the traybake look more polished for presentation.

These ingredients come together with minimal effort, making it a great option for beginners or anyone short on time. The key to success lies in the quality of your cherries – fresh, ripe cherries will create a juicier, more flavorful traybake, but jarred or frozen cherries can also work in a pinch.

Equipment Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake, you won’t need anything overly complicated – just some basic kitchen equipment will do. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Oven: You’ll need to preheat your oven to around 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F.
2. Baking Tray or Tin: A standard 9-inch square or 8×12-inch rectangular baking tray is ideal. A traybake, as the name suggests, is baked in a tray rather than a round tin, making it easier to cut and share.
3. Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing your wet and dry ingredients together.
4. Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: While you can mix by hand, a hand mixer or stand mixer helps speed up the process and ensures that the butter and sugar are fully creamed.
5. Sieve: A sieve is useful for sifting your self-raising flour and any dry ingredients, helping to aerate them and make your cake rise better.
6. Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For folding the cherries into the batter and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
7. Sharp Knife: If you’re using fresh cherries, you’ll need a sharp knife to pit and chop them.
8. Cooling Rack: Once your Cherry Traybake has baked and cooled slightly, transferring it to a cooling rack will help it cool evenly, preventing it from becoming soggy on the bottom.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake

The steps for making Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake are straightforward, making it a perfect recipe for beginners or those who want a quick, fuss-free bake. Here’s how to make it:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F. Line your baking tray with parchment paper or grease it with butter to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 4-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
3. Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. If the mixture looks like it’s curdling, you can add a spoonful of the flour to help it come back together.
4. Sift the Dry Ingredients: Sift the self-raising flour (and baking powder, if using plain flour) into the bowl to remove any lumps. Gently fold the flour into the butter and sugar mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon.
5. Add the Milk and Vanilla: Stir in the milk and vanilla extract. This will help loosen the batter and create a smooth, slightly thick consistency.
6. Fold in the Cherries: Gently fold in the chopped cherries. You don’t want to overmix here; just ensure the cherries are evenly distributed through the batter.
7. Transfer to the Baking Tray: Spoon the batter into your prepared baking tray, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon or spatula to ensure it’s even.
8. Bake the Traybake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Let it cool completely.
10. Serve: Once cooled, you can dust the top with a light sprinkle of icing sugar for a polished finish. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Tips And Tricks

To make your Cherry Traybake even better, here are a few helpful tips and tricks:

• Use Fresh Cherries: If you can, opt for fresh, in-season cherries. They’re sweeter, juicier, and will add more flavor to your traybake.
• Frozen Cherries: If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen cherries work well too. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.
• Avoid Overmixing: When folding in the flour or cherries, be gentle. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
• Cut Even Squares: To make cutting your traybake easier, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. This will give you neat, even squares.
• Add a Twist: You can experiment with different fruits, like raspberries or blueberries, or even add a handful of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.

Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake is a true classic that showcases her ability to create simple yet delicious cakes. With a handful of basic ingredients and minimal equipment, you can create a light, moist sponge studded with sweet, juicy cherries. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a homemade treat, this traybake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Its versatility means you can tweak it to your liking, whether you prefer it with more or fewer cherries, or even switch up the fruit altogether. With Mary Berry’s straightforward instructions, this cake is a hit for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and indulge in a slice of this heavenly Cherry Traybake!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake

Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake is a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of sweet, ripe cherries with the tender crumb of a light, fluffy sponge. But while this traditional recipe is delicious on its own, there are numerous variations you can try to make it even more exciting, catering to different tastes or seasonal ingredients. Here are some fun twists you can add to Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake to elevate your baking game.

1. Berry Medley Traybake

   Why stop at cherries when you can use a variety of berries? Try mixing in raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries alongside or in place of the cherries. The mix of flavors not only adds complexity to the dish, but it also makes it visually appealing with pops of vibrant colors. You could even swirl a few of the berries into the batter for a marbled effect.

2. Almond Cherry Traybake

   To bring a slightly nutty flavor to the mix, incorporate ground almonds into the sponge cake batter. Almonds complement cherries beautifully, adding depth and richness to the bake. You can also sprinkle slivered almonds on top before baking, giving the cake a crunchy texture and even more almond flavor.

3. Chocolate Cherry Traybake

   For those with a sweet tooth, adding chocolate into the recipe is a no-brainer. Stir in small pieces of dark or milk chocolate into the batter, or drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled traybake for an indulgent touch. The combination of cherries and chocolate creates a luxurious and comforting dessert that feels extra special.

4. Lemon Cherry Traybake

   A little zest can go a long way! Adding lemon zest to the cake batter introduces a bright, citrusy contrast to the sweetness of the cherries. For even more flavor, drizzle a lemon glaze (powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice) over the cooled traybake. This variation gives the cake a refreshing, tangy kick that balances the richness of the cherries.

5. Cherry And Coconut Traybake

   Coconut and cherries are a perfect pairing, offering a tropical flair to the traditional recipe. Add desiccated coconut to the batter to infuse a mild coconut flavor. For added texture, you could even sprinkle some shredded coconut on top before baking, allowing it to toast and become golden brown.

6. Vegan Cherry Traybake

   If you’re catering to vegan diets, you can easily adapt Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake to be plant-based. Swap the butter for a vegan alternative like coconut oil or dairy-free margarine. Replace the eggs with a flaxseed mixture or a store-bought egg replacer. You can still use cherries, of course, and this variation is just as moist and delicious as the original.

7. Spiced Cherry Traybake

   Adding a touch of spice can transform the flavor profile of this simple cake. Try incorporating ground cinnamon, ginger, or even a pinch of nutmeg into the batter. These spices will give the cake a cozy, comforting warmth that pairs wonderfully with the cherries. Perfect for autumn or holiday baking!

With these variations, you can easily make Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake your own and enjoy a variety of flavors with each bake, depending on your mood or the season. Feel free to experiment with different combinations and get creative with your toppings or fillings!

Storing Leftovers

While Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake is often so delicious that it disappears quickly, there might be times when you have a little left over. The great news is that, with proper storage, you can enjoy it for a few more days without compromising its flavor or texture.

1. Room Temperature

   If you’re planning to eat your leftover traybake within a couple of days, storing it at room temperature is perfectly fine. Simply wrap it tightly in cling film or store it in an airtight container. This will keep the cake fresh, moist, and prevent it from drying out. However, be sure to place it in a cool, dry area-away from direct sunlight or any heat sources.

2. Refrigeration

   For longer storage, you can refrigerate the Cherry Traybake. While refrigeration might cause the sponge to firm up slightly, it will still retain its flavor. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge. When ready to eat, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften, or even warm it up gently in the microwave or oven for a fresh-out-of-the-bake feel.

3. Freezing

   If you’ve baked a large traybake and are worried you won’t finish it before it starts to go stale, freezing is a great option. Slice the traybake into individual portions and wrap each piece in cling film or parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps preserve the freshness and texture. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat it in the oven to revive its just-baked quality. It’s a perfect way to extend the life of your traybake and enjoy it whenever the craving strikes!

For all storage methods, it’s always best to store the Cherry Traybake without any frosting or glaze on it, as these tend to soften or melt when stored. You can always add the finishing touches later when you’re ready to serve.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake?

Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake is a versatile dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re looking to serve it as part of a larger spread or enjoy it on its own with a cup of tea, here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Whipped Cream Or Clotted Cream

   There’s something undeniably comforting about pairing a slice of cherry traybake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or thick clotted cream. The richness of the cream balances the lightness of the sponge and the sweet tartness of the cherries, creating a luxurious mouthful.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

   For a more indulgent treat, serve your cherry traybake with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream complements the warm cake, and the subtle vanilla flavor works in harmony with the cherries. You could even drizzle a little cherry sauce or compote over the ice cream to enhance the cherry flavor.

3. Custard

   Custard is another classic pairing that elevates a traybake to a new level. Whether you opt for homemade custard or a ready-made variety, the velvety texture and richness of the custard makes it a delightful partner to the traybake, adding both moisture and flavor.

4. Yogurt

   For a slightly healthier option, serve the traybake with a spoonful of Greek yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the cherries and sponge, and the creamy texture adds a pleasant richness without being overly indulgent.

5. Fresh Fruit Salad

   If you’re looking for a lighter accompaniment, a fresh fruit salad is a fantastic choice. A medley of seasonal fruits-like berries, melon, and citrus-adds a refreshing and zesty contrast to the cake’s richness. It’s also a great way to balance out the sweetness of the traybake.

6. Coffee Or Tea

   Of course, a slice of Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake goes wonderfully with a hot beverage. A nice cup of coffee, especially if it’s slightly stronger like an espresso or cappuccino, helps to cut through the sweetness of the cake. Alternatively, a cup of Earl Grey or Darjeeling tea complements the fruitiness of the cherries while adding a subtle floral note.

These combinations will not only enhance your Cherry Traybake experience, but they can also transform a simple afternoon treat into a more elaborate dessert experience!

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake is a charming and adaptable dessert that brings together the sweet, vibrant flavor of cherries with a light, airy sponge. Whether you choose to enjoy the classic version or experiment with any of the fun variations, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that suits all occasions, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.

The easy variations allow you to customize the recipe to suit your taste, whether you’re adding a hint of citrus, a sprinkle of coconut, or a drizzle of chocolate. Plus, it’s simple to store leftovers, so you can enjoy the traybake for several days or even freeze it for a later treat.

Pair it with a side of whipped cream, custard, or a refreshing fruit salad, and you’ve got yourself a delightful dessert experience. With its versatile nature, you can easily turn this traybake into something uniquely yours. Whether shared with friends or savored alone, Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake is a timeless recipe that’s sure to bring joy to any occasion!

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake?

Mary Berry’s cherry traybake recipe requires a variety of simple ingredients. You’ll need 200g of butter, 200g of caster sugar, 3 large eggs, 200g of self-raising flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, 2 tbsp of milk, and 1 tsp of vanilla extract. For the cherry filling, you will need 200g of fresh or frozen cherries, halved and pitted, along with a little extra sugar to sweeten the fruit.

How Long Should I Bake Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake For?

The traybake should be baked at 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F for about 25-30 minutes. It’s important to check that the cake is fully cooked by inserting a skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If you are using a larger tray, it may need a few extra minutes, so keep an eye on it.

Can I Use Frozen Cherries For Mary Berry’s Cherry Traybake Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cherries for Mary Berry’s cherry traybake. Just ensure that they are fully defrosted and drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the cake batter. Frozen cherries might release a bit more juice during baking, so it’s a good idea to toss them in a little bit of flour before adding them to the batter to help prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the tray.