Mary Berry’s Caramel Square is a classic British dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of rich caramel, buttery biscuit base, and a smooth layer of chocolate on top. Known for its simple yet indulgent nature, this dessert has become a firm favorite in households across the UK and beyond. It’s often referred to as a "traybake" due to its easy-to-make, no-fuss nature that allows it to be baked in a tray and then cut into squares for serving. With its crunchy base, gooey caramel center, and a glossy chocolate finish, it’s a treat that hits the spot for anyone with a sweet tooth.
What sets Mary Berry’s version apart from other caramel squares is her precise balance of textures and flavors. The biscuit base is firm enough to support the caramel and chocolate, yet tender enough to melt in your mouth. The caramel itself is silky and sticky, creating a luxurious contrast to the crunch of the base. The chocolate topping adds a glossy finish and a perfect bitter-sweetness to balance out the sweetness of the caramel. Each bite offers a symphony of tastes and textures, making it a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated.
Mary Berry’s Caramel Square Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Making Mary Berry’s Caramel Square requires a few simple ingredients, many of which you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
For The Biscuit Base
- Digestive biscuits (or graham crackers): These form the base of the dessert and offer a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients. Their crunchiness is essential for the structure of the square.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is best, as it provides the richness and helps bind the biscuits together. It’s also used in the caramel layer, adding depth to the flavor.
- Golden syrup: A traditional British sweetener, golden syrup gives the base a subtle, honey-like sweetness that helps hold the mixture together.
For The Caramel Layer
- Sweetened condensed milk: This is the magic ingredient that gives the caramel its smooth and creamy texture. It also ensures that the caramel sets perfectly without being too runny.
- Butter: Again, butter plays a role here in making the caramel rich and velvety. It helps create the luscious, gooey texture that contrasts so beautifully with the crisp biscuit base.
- Light brown sugar: This adds the caramel flavor and sweetness. Light brown sugar, with its molasses undertones, is ideal for creating a deep, comforting caramel taste.
For The Chocolate Topping
- Milk chocolate: Mary Berry uses milk chocolate for the topping, as it adds sweetness and creaminess without overpowering the other layers. However, dark chocolate can also be used if you prefer a more bittersweet topping.
- Butter: A small amount of butter is melted with the chocolate to make the topping glossy and smooth, enhancing the texture and shine of the final product.
Equipment Needed
Mary Berry’s Caramel Square is straightforward to make, but a few key pieces of equipment will ensure the process is as smooth as possible:
- 8-inch square baking tin or tray: This is where you’ll assemble the layers of the caramel square. A square tin works best to give the dessert its signature shape, though a round tin could also work.
- Mixing bowls: You’ll need separate bowls for making the biscuit base, caramel layer, and chocolate topping. Ensure that these are large enough to handle the ingredients comfortably.
- Saucepan: A small to medium-sized saucepan will be needed for melting the butter, sugar, and condensed milk for the caramel.
- Heatproof spatula or wooden spoon: This is essential for stirring the caramel mixture, as it helps ensure even melting and prevents burning.
- Baking paper: Lining the tin with parchment paper makes it easier to lift the finished squares out of the pan and cuts down on cleanup time.
- Sharp knife: After the squares have set and cooled, a sharp knife will be necessary to slice the dessert into even portions.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Caramel Square
Now, let’s dive into the process of creating this delightful treat. The steps are simple but require a bit of patience to get that perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Step 1: Prepare The Biscuit Base
- Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (140°C fan-assisted), or 325°F.
- Grease and line your 8-inch square baking tin with parchment paper. Leave a bit of an overhang to make lifting the squares out of the tin easier later.
- Break the digestive biscuits into small crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a large zip-lock bag and crushing them with a rolling pin, or use a food processor for a finer crumb.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and golden syrup together over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure they don’t burn.
- Once melted, add the crushed biscuits to the pan and stir until the crumbs are evenly coated in the buttery mixture.
- Press the biscuit mixture firmly into the prepared tin, creating a solid and even base. Place it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the caramel layer.
Step 2: Make The Caramel Layer
- In a saucepan, combine the butter, light brown sugar, and condensed milk. Gently heat over low to medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar has dissolved.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the caramel thickens slightly and turns a golden brown color.
- Pour the caramel over the chilled biscuit base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the tin to the fridge and let the caramel layer set for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
Step 3: Prepare The Chocolate Topping
- While the caramel layer sets, break the milk chocolate into pieces and melt it in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double-boiler method) or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring between each burst.
- Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, stir in the butter until it’s completely incorporated.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the set caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the surface completely.
Step 4: Final Chill And Slice
- Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature for 10 minutes, then place the tin back in the fridge for about 30 minutes to firm up completely.
- Once the chocolate is set and the caramel has fully chilled, use a sharp knife to slice the caramel square into even portions. You can make them as big or small as you like, but typically, 16 squares is a good size.
Tips And Tricks
- Chill between layers: To ensure each layer sets properly, it’s important to chill the biscuit base before adding the caramel, and the caramel before adding the chocolate. This keeps each layer distinct and prevents them from mixing together.
- Don’t rush the caramel: When making the caramel layer, be patient. Let the mixture cook long enough to thicken and develop the right color. If you remove it from the heat too soon, it won’t set properly.
- Use a sharp knife: When slicing the finished squares, use a sharp knife to get clean cuts. Warm the knife slightly under hot water, wiping it dry between cuts, for even smoother slices.
- Storage: These caramel squares will keep well in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Mary Berry’s Caramel Square is a simple yet indulgent treat that brings together a perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert to impress guests or a comforting homemade snack to enjoy with a cup of tea, these caramel squares never disappoint. With their buttery biscuit base, creamy caramel filling, and glossy chocolate topping, they offer a delightful bite every time.
The recipe itself is easy to follow and doesn’t require any special baking skills, making it an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced bakers. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a dessert that tastes as though it’s been crafted by a professional pastry chef. So, grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to make a batch of these delicious caramel squares that are sure to disappear in no time!
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Caramel Square
Mary Berry’s Caramel Square recipe is already a crowd-pleasing favorite, but there’s always room to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures. Whether you’re aiming for a different flavor profile, trying to cater to dietary restrictions, or simply craving a twist on the classic, here are some easy recipe variations that can elevate your Caramel Square game.
1. Chocolate Lovers’ Dream
Mary Berry’s version calls for a rich layer of chocolate on top of the caramel, but you can tweak it to suit different chocolate preferences. For a deep, intense flavor, use dark chocolate with a high cocoa content-anything from 70% to 85% will give the caramel a luxurious contrast. If you’re a fan of milk chocolate, try a milk chocolate ganache for a sweeter, creamier top layer. White chocolate also makes a deliciously smooth topping, and it pairs wonderfully with the slight bitterness of the caramel.
Pro Tip: Mix in a tablespoon of instant coffee granules or a splash of espresso into the melted chocolate to deepen the flavor and add a subtle coffee edge that complements the sweetness of the caramel.
2. Nutty Caramel Squares
For a bit of crunch and a flavor boost, try adding chopped nuts like hazelnuts, almonds, or walnuts either into the caramel layer itself or sprinkled over the chocolate topping. Hazelnuts offer a perfect balance of sweetness and earthiness, while almonds bring a nice, subtle nuttiness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even toast the nuts before adding them for extra depth.
Variation Idea: Add crushed praline to the top of the caramel for a delightful caramelized sugar crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft caramel and chocolate layers.
3. Salted Caramel Twist
A sprinkle of sea salt over the chocolate layer is an easy but effective way to enhance the flavor profile of your Caramel Square. The contrast between the sweetness of the caramel and the saltiness of the flakes creates an addictive combination that has become a modern favorite. Use flaky sea salt, like Maldon salt, which dissolves beautifully and adds just the right amount of savory edge.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling extra fancy, use smoked salt for a subtle smokey flavor that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness.
4. Fruit-Inspired Caramel Squares
If you’re looking for a fruity twist, try adding dried fruits to the caramel layer. Dried cranberries, cherries, or apricots work beautifully as they give the squares a slightly tangy contrast to the rich sweetness of the caramel. You could even drizzle a bit of raspberry or strawberry sauce on top of the chocolate layer for a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the richness.
Variation Tip: Stir some chopped dried figs or dates into the crust before pressing it into the pan for added sweetness and a chewy texture.
5. Gluten-Free Version
For those who are gluten-sensitive, swapping out the traditional digestive biscuits for a gluten-free alternative is a quick fix. Gluten-free digestive biscuits are available in most supermarkets, and they can be used to create the same crumbly, buttery base. Alternatively, you can use gluten-free graham crackers or rice cakes for an entirely different texture that still provides a solid base for the caramel and chocolate.
Bonus Tip: Always check the ingredients of your caramel to ensure it’s also gluten-free. Some store-bought caramel sauces may contain hidden gluten, so making your own caramel can be a great way to ensure it’s safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Storing Leftovers
Mary Berry’s Caramel Square is rich and indulgent, which means you might find yourself with leftovers (or you might want to make it ahead of time for a special occasion). Fortunately, storing these squares properly ensures they stay fresh and delicious for days.
Room Temperature Storage
If you plan to enjoy your Caramel Squares within a few days, you can store them at room temperature. Simply place them in an airtight container, ensuring there is no excess air inside, which can cause the caramel to harden. If you’re stacking the squares, place a layer of parchment paper between each to prevent them from sticking together.
Storage Tip: Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat, as the caramel may begin to soften or even melt if exposed to warmth.
Refrigerator Storage
For longer storage, particularly if you live in a warmer climate or want to extend their shelf life, the refrigerator is a good option. Storing your Caramel Squares in the fridge will keep the chocolate layer firm and the caramel nicely set. However, be sure to let the squares come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes before eating, as cold caramel can be a bit tough to bite into straight from the fridge.
Refrigeration Tip: Wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. If you’re planning to refrigerate a large batch, it might be a good idea to freeze some of them for even longer preservation.
Freezing Caramel Squares
If you’ve made a big batch or simply want to prepare in advance, freezing Caramel Squares is an excellent option. To freeze them, first allow the squares to cool completely, then wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, let them defrost in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Freezing Tip: For best results, avoid freezing the caramel with any toppings like nuts or fruit that may not freeze as well. Add those fresh when you defrost them.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Caramel Square?
Mary Berry’s Caramel Square is rich, indulgent, and sweet, which makes it a perfect companion for certain beverages or side dishes. Here are a few ideas to enhance your snacking or dessert experience:
1. Coffee Or Espresso
The strong, slightly bitter flavor of coffee is an ideal match for the sweetness of the Caramel Square. Whether you opt for a cup of rich espresso or a creamy latte, the boldness of coffee cuts through the sweetness, balancing out the richness of the dessert. This pairing is especially ideal if you’re serving Caramel Squares as part of an afternoon tea or after dinner.
2. Tea
As with many British desserts, a nice cup of tea makes an excellent accompaniment to a Caramel Square. Black teas like Earl Grey or English Breakfast, with their subtle citrus and malty flavors, are great choices. If you prefer something lighter, a green tea or even a floral chamomile can provide a softer contrast to the rich caramel.
3. Fresh Berries
Fresh berries such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries are a great addition when serving Mary Berry’s Caramel Squares. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweet, creamy layers of the dessert. Plus, the vibrant colors of fresh fruit add a pop of visual contrast to the decadent squares.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with Mary Berry’s Caramel Squares. The cool, creamy texture of the ice cream complements the firm caramel and chocolate layers. For added sophistication, drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the ice cream or sprinkle some crushed nuts on top.
5. Whipped Cream
A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the dense, rich Caramel Squares. If you want to elevate it further, try adding a little vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the whipped cream for extra flavor complexity.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Caramel Squares are a delightful treat that balances rich, buttery shortbread, sweet caramel, and smooth chocolate in each bite. They are a timeless favorite, easy to make, and versatile enough for endless variations. Whether you want to experiment with different types of chocolate, add a nutty crunch, or make a gluten-free version, there’s a way to customize the recipe to suit your tastes. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy them over multiple days, and pairing them with a hot drink or fresh fruit adds an extra layer of enjoyment. Whether served for an afternoon tea, dessert, or simply as a sweet snack, Mary Berry’s Caramel Squares are guaranteed to impress and satisfy.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Caramel Square Recipe?
Mary Berry’s caramel square recipe requires the following ingredients: digestive biscuits, butter, sugar, golden syrup, and condensed milk for the caramel filling. For the chocolate topping, you’ll need milk or dark chocolate, depending on your preference. These simple ingredients combine to make a delicious, sweet treat that is both rich and satisfying.
How Long Do Mary Berry’s Caramel Squares Take To Set?
After preparing the caramel squares and adding the chocolate topping, the squares need time to set. Typically, the recipe suggests placing them in the fridge for at least 2-3 hours, or until the caramel and chocolate layers have firmed up. This helps to ensure the squares hold their shape when cut.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Caramel Squares In Advance?
Yes, you can definitely make Mary Berry’s caramel squares in advance. In fact, they often taste even better after being left to set overnight in the fridge. You can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, making them a convenient treat to prepare ahead of time.
