Mary Berry’s Gin And Lime Drizzle Traybake Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Gin and Lime Drizzle Traybake is a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the zing of fresh limes with the crisp, aromatic flavor of gin. A modern twist on the classic drizzle cake, this traybake takes the traditional formula of a moist sponge cake and adds a sophisticated touch with the gin and lime infusion.

The cake itself is tender, soft, and airy, while the gin and lime syrup that is poured over it after baking brings a burst of citrusy freshness and a slight boozy kick. The combination of gin, lime zest, and sugar in the syrup creates a tangy-sweet glaze that sinks deep into the cake, making every bite a burst of flavor.

This traybake is perfect for those who love the unique flavors of gin and lime cocktails but want to enjoy them in a more comforting, dessert form. Ideal for summer gatherings, afternoon teas, or a casual treat, it’s sure to impress with both its simplicity and flavor complexity.

Mary Berry’s Gin And Lime Drizzle Traybake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Making Mary Berry’s Gin and Lime Drizzle Traybake requires relatively few ingredients, most of which are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

For The Cake

• Butter (unsalted) – 225g: The base fat in the sponge, giving it a rich flavor and a soft texture.
• Caster Sugar – 225g: This fine sugar dissolves quickly, helping to create a smooth batter and sweeten the cake.
• Self-Raising Flour – 225g: Provides the lift needed for the sponge. If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can substitute it by adding 2 teaspoons of baking powder to plain flour.
• Eggs – 4 large: Eggs bind the ingredients and add structure and moisture to the cake.
• Milk – 3 tbsp: Helps to loosen the batter and creates a softer crumb.
• Lime Zest – 2 limes: Zesty, aromatic lime peel that gives the cake a fresh citrus fragrance and flavor.

For The Gin And Lime Syrup

• Gin – 3 tbsp: A key flavor component, the gin adds a subtle yet distinctive depth and warmth.
• Lime Juice – 2 limes: Freshly squeezed juice provides tanginess and pairs beautifully with the gin.
• Caster Sugar – 100g: To balance the tartness of the lime juice, the sugar creates a syrupy texture that coats the cake.
• Water – 3 tbsp: Helps dissolve the sugar and balance the syrup’s consistency.

For The Drizzle Topping

• Icing Sugar – 100g: To make a smooth glaze, which will be drizzled over the cooled cake, adding sweetness and shine.
• Gin – 1 tbsp: This is mixed into the icing sugar for an extra touch of flavor in the glaze.
• Lime Juice – 1 tbsp: To add an additional layer of tangy freshness to the topping.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need any particularly unusual kitchen gadgets to make this traybake, but a few basic pieces of equipment are essential for achieving the best results:

• A 20x30cm (8×12-inch) Rectangular Baking Tin: A traybake is baked in a shallow, rectangular tin that allows the cake to cook evenly and gives it the ideal shape for slicing.
• Electric Mixer or Whisk: While a hand whisk can certainly do the job, an electric mixer will help you achieve a light, fluffy sponge quickly by aerating the mixture.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them.
• Grater or Zester: To extract the zest from the limes without getting the bitter white pith.
• Sifter or Fine Sieve: To sift the flour and icing sugar, ensuring that the cake and drizzle are light and free of lumps.
• Sharp Knife or Cake Cutter: To slice the baked traybake into neat, even pieces once it’s cooled.
• Small Saucepan: For making the gin and lime syrup that will soak into the cake.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Gin And Lime Drizzle Traybake

Step 1: Prepare The Oven And Baking Tin

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F/Gas mark 4. Line your baking tin with baking paper, ensuring the edges of the paper come slightly over the sides of the tin. This will help you remove the traybake easily once it’s done.

Step 2: Make The Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter and caster sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated.

Sift the self-raising flour into the mixture and add the milk and lime zest. Gently fold everything together using a spatula or spoon until the batter is smooth and well-combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.

Step 3: Bake The Cake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared tin, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure it’s evenly distributed. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the cake should be golden and slightly risen.

Step 4: Make The Gin And Lime Syrup

While the cake is baking, make the syrup by combining the gin, lime juice, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved completely and the syrup is smooth. Once the cake is out of the oven, immediately poke holes all over the warm cake with a skewer or fork, then pour the gin-lime syrup over the cake, allowing it to soak in.

Step 5: Prepare The Drizzle

To make the drizzle topping, sift the icing sugar into a small bowl. Add the lime juice and gin, then mix until smooth and slightly runny. If it’s too thick, you can add a few more drops of lime juice to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 6: Drizzle And Cool

Once the cake has cooled completely in the tin, drizzle the icing over the top, letting it gently run down the sides. Leave the cake to set for a few minutes before slicing it into squares.

Tips And Tricks

1. Zest and Juice Limes First: When preparing the limes, zest them first, then juice them. This way, you avoid accidentally using the juice from a lime that you’ve already zested.
2. Make Sure the Cake is Fully Cooled: Before applying the drizzle topping, ensure the cake has cooled completely. If the cake is still warm, the icing may melt into the sponge, affecting the texture and appearance.
3. Gin Choice: The gin you use will impact the flavor of the cake. Choose a gin with a floral or citrusy profile for a lighter, more refreshing taste. Avoid using overly strong or herbal gins, as they could overpower the other flavors.
4. Serve with a Garnish: To enhance the presentation, serve each slice with a thin slice of lime or even a sprig of mint. A little extra lime zest on top adds an elegant touch.
5. Make it Ahead of Time: This cake actually gets better as it sits for a day or two. The syrup continues to infuse the sponge, and the flavors meld together even more, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for gatherings or events.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Gin And Lime Drizzle Traybake

Mary Berry’s Gin and Lime Drizzle Traybake is a delightful, refreshing dessert that combines the zesty tang of lime with the sharp, aromatic punch of gin, all wrapped up in a moist, fluffy sponge. But if you’re in the mood for experimenting or want to tailor this recipe to your tastes, there are plenty of simple, easy variations you can try. These adaptations can be as subtle or as bold as you like, so feel free to get creative with ingredients that align with your flavor preferences.

1. Fruit Infusions: While the original recipe boasts the tangy zing of lime, you could easily swap out the lime for another citrus, like lemon or orange, depending on your mood or the season. For a more exotic twist, infuse your drizzle with passionfruit, or add a handful of fresh berries, like raspberries or blackberries, into the batter before baking. The fruit will create bursts of color and flavor, making each bite a little more exciting.
2. Gin Variety: If you want to explore different flavors, consider experimenting with a variety of gins. A classic London Dry Gin provides a crisp, botanical flavor that complements the lime perfectly, but you can opt for more unconventional choices like a floral gin infused with lavender or a fruit-forward gin for a sweeter profile. This allows you to completely transform the flavor experience while maintaining that signature gin kick.
3. Coconut Twist: For a tropical vibe, try adding a touch of coconut to the mix. Coconut extract can be incorporated into the sponge batter for a delicate, nutty flavor. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the drizzle glaze for a crunchy, toasted topping that pairs wonderfully with the moist, citrus-infused cake.
4. Herbal Variations: For a more complex flavor profile, incorporate fresh herbs like mint or basil into the recipe. Infuse the gin with the herbs, or finely chop them and add them to the batter. These fresh, fragrant herbs bring an earthy, aromatic quality to the traybake that balances out the sweetness of the lime and the sharpness of the gin.
5. Alcohol-Free Version: If you want to make this traybake kid-friendly or non-alcoholic, simply omit the gin altogether and replace it with a combination of lime juice and zest, along with a touch of non-alcoholic gin or even a splash of elderflower cordial for some depth. The result will be just as fragrant and zesty, without the alcohol.
6. Vegan Alternative: For those following a vegan diet, swapping out the eggs and butter is a simple fix. Use a plant-based butter or oil (like coconut oil or sunflower oil) and substitute the eggs with flax eggs or chia seeds soaked in water. Additionally, ensure the gin and other flavorings are vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a vegan-friendly gin and lime drizzle traybake that still packs all the flavor.
7. Chocolate and Lime: If you’re a chocolate lover, you could add some finely chopped dark chocolate or cocoa powder to the batter. The bittersweet chocolate complements the tangy lime beautifully. For an added layer of richness, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top of the cake after adding the gin-lime glaze.

These variations are easy to incorporate without overwhelming the original recipe. Each twist adds a new dimension of flavor, whether you want to elevate the dessert with an herbal kick, indulge in tropical flair, or give the gin a fresh spin. The beauty of Mary Berry’s traybake lies in its versatility, so feel free to experiment and adapt the recipe to suit your taste.

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve baked up a storm and are left with some of Mary Berry’s Gin and Lime Drizzle Traybake, don’t worry! Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy the moist, tangy goodness for a few days longer, while still maintaining the texture and flavor. Here’s how to store it effectively:

1. Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the traybake within 1-2 days, you can keep it at room temperature. Simply cover the traybake with a large piece of cling film or store it in an airtight container. The sponge will remain moist, and the lime drizzle will keep its refreshing flavor. Avoid leaving it exposed for too long, as this can cause the cake to dry out.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, especially if you have leftovers that need to last for 3-4 days, it’s best to refrigerate the traybake. Wrap it tightly in cling film or store it in an airtight container to prevent the cake from drying out and absorbing any fridge odors. The cool temperature will help preserve the flavors and texture of the cake, but make sure to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best taste and texture.
3. Freezing: Want to keep your gin and lime drizzle traybake for longer? Freezing is a great option! Allow the traybake to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in cling film or aluminum foil, followed by a layer of freezer-safe plastic wrap. If you freeze individual slices, this makes it easy to defrost only the amount you need. The traybake can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply defrost it in the fridge overnight or leave it out at room temperature for a few hours. If you prefer your drizzle to be fresh, you can always prepare the gin-lime drizzle just before serving.

One thing to note: freezing can alter the texture of the drizzle slightly, so it’s best to add it fresh after thawing the cake.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Gin And Lime Drizzle Traybake?

Mary Berry’s Gin and Lime Drizzle Traybake is already a complete, indulgent dessert on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your tasting experience even further. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply want to make your teatime extra special, these pairings can offer the perfect balance of flavors.

1. Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh, juicy berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, add a tart and refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake. Their vibrant color and natural sweetness will enhance the citrusy zing of the traybake.
2. Whipped Cream or Crème Fraîche: The creamy texture of freshly whipped cream or tangy crème fraîche provides a luxurious balance to the sharp gin and lime flavors. A dollop of either will bring richness to each bite, softening the tartness and making the dessert even more indulgent.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream: On a warm day, pairing the traybake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream can be heavenly. The cold, smooth texture of the ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the cake’s light crumb, creating a decadent dessert combo.
4. Gin and Tonic: If you’re serving this for an adult gathering or a special celebration, you might consider pairing the traybake with a refreshing gin and tonic. The flavors of the gin in the drink will echo the gin in the drizzle, creating a harmonious experience. A garnish of lime or cucumber will add extra freshness to this pairing.
5. Lemon Sorbet: For a lighter, zesty accompaniment, lemon sorbet is a fantastic choice. Its clean, tart flavor cuts through the sweetness of the traybake and provides a palate-cleansing contrast, especially after a heavier meal.
6. Prosecco or Sparkling Wine: If you’re serving the traybake for a celebration or gathering, consider pairing it with a chilled glass of Prosecco or sparkling wine. The bubbles and slight acidity of the drink complement the citrusy lime flavors in the traybake and make for an elegant pairing.

These pairings add an extra layer of sophistication to the dessert, whether you prefer something fruity, creamy, or bubbly to complement the zing of the cake.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Gin and Lime Drizzle Traybake is a perfect example of how simplicity and sophistication can come together in the kitchen. The refreshing lime and sharp gin, combined with the airy, moist sponge, create a dessert that is both light and indulgent. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your taste with various flavor infusions, alcohol alternatives, and dietary adjustments, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a casual afternoon or at a special celebration, its fresh and fragrant appeal makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.

The storage options are easy and convenient, ensuring that leftovers can be enjoyed for days, even frozen for later. And with a range of complementary dishes and drinks, you can make this treat part of a well-rounded, indulgent dessert spread. So, whether you’re indulging on your own or impressing guests, Mary Berry’s Gin and Lime Drizzle Traybake is a recipe that promises to delight with every bite!

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients For Mary Berry’s Gin And Lime Drizzle Traybake?

The main ingredients for Mary Berry’s gin and lime drizzle traybake include self-raising flour, butter, sugar, eggs, lime zest, gin, and a touch of baking powder. The drizzle topping is made from lime juice, gin, and extra sugar to give the cake its tangy and refreshing flavor.

Can I Substitute Gin In Mary Berry’s Gin And Lime Drizzle Traybake?

Yes, if you prefer not to use gin, you can substitute it with another spirit like vodka or a non-alcoholic gin alternative. Alternatively, you can use lime juice or lime extract with a splash of water to maintain the zesty flavor without alcohol.

How Can I Ensure My Mary Berry Gin And Lime Drizzle Traybake Turns Out Moist And Fluffy?

To ensure the traybake is moist and fluffy, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately, especially the butter and sugar. Cream them together well until light and fluffy before adding the eggs, one at a time. Don’t overmix the batter once the flour is added. For a moist texture, it’s essential to pour the gin and lime drizzle over the warm cake immediately after baking, allowing it to soak in and enhance the flavor.