Mary Berry’s Lemon And Passion Fruit Traybake Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Lemon and Passion Fruit Traybake is a refreshing and tangy dessert that combines the zesty citrus notes of lemon with the tropical sweetness of passion fruit. Known for her straightforward yet delicious recipes, Mary Berry has crafted this traybake as an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat. The cake has a soft, light texture, complemented by a glaze that adds a sweet-tart layer of flavor. This traybake is perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to a family gathering, offering a delightful contrast of flavors with a delightful sweetness balanced by the sharpness of the citrus. The passion fruit element adds an exotic twist, elevating this recipe from the ordinary into something truly memorable.

The traybake itself is simple yet elegant, with a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. The glaze is a citrusy masterpiece, taking the tartness of lemon and passion fruit to a new level, creating an irresistible glossy finish. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, so you can whip up this cake without needing to be a baking expert, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Mary Berry’s Lemon And Passion Fruit Traybake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create this tantalizing lemon and passion fruit traybake, you’ll need a mixture of basic baking ingredients, along with the star ingredients that give it its distinctive tangy flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For The Cake Base

  • Butter (unsalted) – 225g: This helps create a soft and moist cake, providing the essential fat for texture.
  • Caster Sugar – 225g: Adds sweetness and contributes to the soft, light texture of the cake.
  • Self-Raising Flour – 225g: This provides the lift for the cake, helping it rise evenly as it bakes.
  • Eggs – 4 large: These bind the ingredients together, provide structure, and add moisture to the cake.
  • Lemon Zest – Zest of 2 lemons: The zest is where the lemon’s aromatic oils are concentrated, providing that fresh citrus fragrance and flavor.
  • Passion Fruit Pulp – 2 passion fruits: This is the tropical touch that sets this traybake apart, giving it a unique tart-sweet flavor and a bit of texture from the seeds.
  • Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp: Adds a soft, complementary note to balance the citrus flavors.
  • Baking Powder – 1 tsp: Helps the cake rise and ensures a light, airy texture.

• For The Glaze

  • Icing Sugar – 200g: The base for the glaze, which sweetens and thickens the mixture.
  • Lemon Juice – 2 tbsp: Enhances the lemony flavor, adding freshness and balance to the sweetness of the icing sugar.
  • Passion Fruit Pulp – 2 passion fruits: This ties the glaze to the rest of the cake, contributing that tropical tangy element.

These ingredients work harmoniously to give you a flavorful cake with a punchy citrus and passion fruit finish.

Equipment Needed

For this traybake, you’ll need a few key kitchen tools to ensure everything is prepared correctly and efficiently. Here’s a breakdown:

• Baking Tray (approx. 30cm x 23cm): A rectangular or square baking tin with good depth (about 3cm) to ensure the cake has enough room to rise. A shallow tin won’t allow for the desired texture or even cooking.
• Electric Mixer (handheld or stand): While you could mix by hand, an electric mixer will help you achieve the light and fluffy consistency needed for this cake. It’s especially helpful for beating butter and sugar to create a smooth, aerated base.
• Mixing Bowls: At least two, one for the wet ingredients (butter, eggs, passion fruit pulp) and one for the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder).
• Zester or Grater: For zesting the lemons to extract their fresh citrus oils.
• Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer: To sift the flour and baking powder together, ensuring even distribution and avoiding clumps.
• Spoon or Spatula: For scraping down the sides of your bowl and making sure all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
• Wire Rack: To allow the cake to cool properly once it comes out of the oven, preventing it from becoming soggy.
• Small Bowl or Jug: For mixing the glaze ingredients together, ensuring a smooth consistency for drizzling over the cooled cake.

With these tools in hand, you’ll be ready to bake like a pro.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Lemon And Passion Fruit Traybake

Follow these simple steps to create a vibrant, fresh lemon and passion fruit traybake:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by heating your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens), or 350°F. Line your baking tray with baking parchment to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Mix the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and caster sugar together using your electric mixer until it’s light, fluffy, and pale. This usually takes around 4-5 minutes. The air incorporated into this mixture is what will give your cake its soft texture.
3. Add the eggs: One at a time, add in the eggs, making sure to beat well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well-mixed.
4. Add the zest and passion fruit: Stir in the lemon zest and the pulp from the passion fruits. The zest will give the cake a fresh lemon flavor, and the passion fruit adds that exotic, tangy touch.
5. Incorporate the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the self-raising flour and baking powder together. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture, adding a little at a time, until everything is combined. Be gentle to avoid deflating the mixture.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the glaze: While the cake is cooling, mix together the icing sugar, lemon juice, and passion fruit pulp in a small bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
9. Glaze the cake: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. The glaze will set quickly, giving the cake a shiny, enticing finish.

Tips And Tricks

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps the mixture emulsify properly, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cake.
• Don’t overmix: Once the dry ingredients are added to the wet ingredients, mix just enough to combine. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• For extra tropical flavor: Consider adding a tablespoon of coconut flakes to the batter for a coconut-passion fruit combo that’s utterly delicious.
• Check the cake early: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking the cake at 25 minutes by inserting a skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done.
• Make ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container once it’s completely cool to keep it moist and fresh.

Mary Berry’s Lemon and Passion Fruit Traybake is an ideal recipe for anyone looking to add a splash of sunshine to their baking repertoire. With its combination of zesty lemon, tangy passion fruit, and a soft, airy cake base, it’s a perfect treat for all occasions-whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea, looking for an easy dessert to impress guests, or simply treating yourself. The recipe is accessible, requiring only simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, but the end result is nothing short of delicious. The glaze adds the finishing touch, turning a humble traybake into a visually stunning and mouthwatering dessert. Try it out, and enjoy a slice of this vibrant, tropical-flavored cake!

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Lemon And Passion Fruit Traybake

Mary Berry’s Lemon and Passion Fruit Traybake is a light and zesty treat that blends the refreshing tang of lemon with the exotic sweetness of passion fruit. However, as with any classic recipe, there’s room for creativity. Here are some easy recipe variations that can elevate this traybake, offering a range of flavors, textures, and experiences:

1. Lemon and Raspberry Traybake

If you want to swap the passion fruit for a different fruity punch, why not try raspberries? The tartness of the raspberries pairs beautifully with the citrusy lemon, creating a more traditional flavor profile. You can either fold the raspberries into the batter for bursts of fruity flavor or scatter them on top before baking for a pop of color and an added juiciness.

2. Coconut and Lime Twist

For those who love tropical flavors, coconut can bring a richer depth to the traybake. Add desiccated coconut into the batter and use lime juice instead of lemon for a coconut-lime inspired variation. This tweak not only makes the cake even more fragrant but also gives it a beautiful moist crumb that’s both delicate and chewy. You can even finish it with a dusting of toasted coconut for a bit of texture on top.

3. Passion Fruit and Ginger

If you want to spice things up a bit, a ginger version of the lemon and passion fruit traybake could be just the thing. You can finely chop fresh ginger or use ground ginger to infuse the cake with a bit of warmth and heat. The spicy kick from the ginger beautifully balances the tartness of the lemon and the sweet tang of the passion fruit, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

4. Blueberry and Lemon Traybake

For an easier fruit swap, blueberries are always a reliable option. You can use frozen blueberries, or fresh if in season, gently folding them into the batter before baking. The berries will burst as they bake, adding pops of sweetness throughout the cake. Additionally, you can drizzle a blueberry syrup or compote over the baked traybake to add another layer of flavor and make it even more indulgent.

5. Vegan Lemon and Passion Fruit Traybake

For those following a vegan diet, you can adapt Mary Berry’s original recipe by substituting the eggs with a plant-based alternative like flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) or aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas). You can also swap the butter for dairy-free margarine or coconut oil and use plant-based milk. The result is a moist, dairy-free traybake that still maintains that zesty flavor profile and rich texture.

6. Lemon and Elderflower Traybake

For a sophisticated, floral touch, adding elderflower cordial to the traybake gives it a delicate aroma and an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon. Elderflower and lemon are a timeless combination, and a splash of elderflower syrup in the icing or drizzle will elevate the cake’s overall taste, offering a fragrant sweetness that contrasts perfectly with the zing of lemon.

7. Lemon and Passion Fruit Cheesecake Traybake

For something indulgent, consider turning this traybake into a cheesecake-inspired version. After baking the base, add a layer of cream cheese, lemon zest, and passion fruit pulp on top, then bake for an additional few minutes or chill it overnight for a cold, creamy twist on the original recipe. This variation is perfect for those who love the rich creaminess of cheesecake but want the simplicity and ease of a traybake.

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers after making Mary Berry’s Lemon and Passion Fruit Traybake, storing them properly ensures that they stay fresh and moist for longer. Here’s how you can store your traybake to maintain its flavor and texture:

1. At Room Temperature

If you plan to finish the traybake within a couple of days, storing it in an airtight container at room temperature is your best option. The cake will stay soft and fresh for about 2-3 days, and the tangy lemon and passion fruit flavors will continue to develop. Be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

2. In the Refrigerator

If you want to extend the freshness of your cake, refrigerating it is the way to go. However, the cold air in the fridge can sometimes dry out cakes, so make sure the traybake is well-wrapped in plastic wrap or kept in an airtight container to retain its moisture. When refrigerated, the traybake can last up to 5 days.

3. Freezing Leftovers

For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Slice the traybake into individual portions, then wrap each slice tightly in cling film or foil. Place the wrapped slices into a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply defrost at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to refresh the texture.

4. Icing and Decoration

If you’ve added icing or a drizzle on top of the traybake, it’s best to store the cake without the icing for a longer shelf life. This is because the icing may soften over time, making the cake a bit too sticky. If you must store it with icing, allow the icing to set fully before wrapping the cake to prevent it from sticking to the wrapping.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Lemon And Passion Fruit Traybake?

Mary Berry’s Lemon and Passion Fruit Traybake is delightful on its own, but it can also be paired with a variety of accompaniments to create a more substantial dessert or afternoon tea experience. Here are some ideas on what to eat with it:

1. Fresh Cream or Whipped Cream

A simple dollop of freshly whipped cream is a classic addition to any citrus-flavored dessert. The smooth, rich cream balances the zesty flavors of the traybake while adding an indulgent touch. If you want to go a step further, you could flavor the whipped cream with a touch of vanilla extract or even a bit of lemon zest to complement the cake.

2. Ice Cream or Sorbet

For a summery treat, pairing the traybake with ice cream or sorbet can be a refreshing and cooling addition. Lemon or coconut ice cream pairs wonderfully with the cake, while a passion fruit sorbet enhances the exotic fruit notes of the traybake. The creamy richness of the ice cream contrasts with the lightness of the cake, making each bite a balanced experience.

3. Fresh Fruit Salad

A bowl of fresh fruit salad, especially one with citrus fruits, berries, and tropical fruits like mango and kiwi, is a lovely way to balance the sweetness of the cake. The natural juiciness of the fruit offers a refreshing contrast to the crumbly texture of the traybake, while also complementing its fruity flavors.

4. Afternoon Tea Sweets

For a complete afternoon tea spread, serve the traybake alongside other sweet treats like scones, shortbread, or mini tarts. The lemon and passion fruit traybake will fit perfectly in a selection of pastries and cakes, giving your guests a variety of flavors and textures to enjoy. You can also serve it with a hot cup of Earl Grey tea or a floral herbal tea, like chamomile or jasmine, to enhance the flavors of the cake.

5. Cheese and Biscuits

While it may seem unconventional, the tangy sweetness of the traybake pairs surprisingly well with certain cheeses. A soft goat cheese, creamy mascarpone, or even a mild brie could provide a delightful contrast to the lemon and passion fruit. Serve alongside some buttery crackers or crispbread for a sweet and savory combination that feels decadent.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Lemon and Passion Fruit Traybake is a delightful dessert that combines refreshing citrus with the exotic tang of passion fruit, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Its versatility allows for a wide range of easy variations that cater to different tastes and dietary needs, from coconut and lime twists to vegan versions. Storing leftovers is simple, and with the right methods, you can extend the shelf life of this cake without compromising on taste or texture.

Pairing the traybake with fresh cream, ice cream, or even a fruit salad can turn it into an unforgettable dessert experience. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as part of a larger spread, this traybake promises to be a crowd-pleaser every time. So, whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something sweet, this cake is sure to become a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For Mary Berry’s Lemon And Passion Fruit Traybake?

The main ingredients for Mary Berry’s lemon and passion fruit traybake include self-raising flour, butter, caster sugar, eggs, lemons, passion fruit pulp, and a few optional extras such as desiccated coconut or yogurt for added moisture. The passion fruit gives the traybake its signature tangy and tropical flavor, balanced by the zesty freshness of lemon.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Lemon And Passion Fruit Traybake In Advance?

Yes, this traybake can be made in advance. Once baked, allow it to cool completely before covering it with cling film or storing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to a month. Just be sure to wrap it properly before freezing to preserve its texture and flavor.

What Can I Use As A Substitute For Passion Fruit In The Traybake?

If you can’t find fresh passion fruit or prefer an alternative, you can substitute it with passion fruit juice, available in most supermarkets. If you want a similar tangy flavor but without the seeds, you could also consider using a mix of orange juice and lemon juice or a passion fruit-flavored syrup. However, using fresh passion fruit provides the best texture and flavor for this recipe.