Mary Berry Dorset Apple Traybake Recipe – Classic British Apple Cake with Cinnamon

Introduction to the Recipe

Welcome to a cozy classic that captures the essence of British autumn baking: Mary Berry’s Dorset Apple Traybake. This comforting cake is a seasonal favorite, perfect for crisp days when apples are abundant and warm spices beckon. With its tender crumb, sweet apple layers, and golden top, it’s a bake that feels like a hug in every bite.

Mary Berry, a beloved figure in British culinary culture, has long championed simple, elegant recipes that deliver big flavor. Her traybake is no exception—easy to make, reliably delicious, and ideal for sharing. Whether you’re baking for a weekend treat, a school event, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea, this apple traybake is a go-to recipe that never disappoints. It’s the kind of bake that fills your kitchen with the scent of cinnamon and nostalgia, and tastes even better the next day.

Who Is Mary Berry?

Mary Berry is a legendary British food writer and television personality, best known for her role as a judge on The Great British Bake Off. With over 70 cookbooks to her name, she’s revered for her practical, foolproof recipes and warm teaching style. Her influence on British baking is profound—she’s helped generations of home bakers master everything from Victoria sponge to perfect pastry. One of her standout publications, Mary Berry Cooks the Perfect, showcases her signature approach: simple techniques, quality ingredients, and timeless flavors. Her Dorset Apple Traybake is a shining example of her ability to turn humble ingredients into something truly special.

What Is a Dorset Apple Traybake?

A Dorset Apple Traybake is a rustic, moist cake layered with slices of tart apples and gently spiced with cinnamon. It’s baked in a rectangular tin, making it easy to portion and perfect for sharing. The texture is tender yet sturdy, with pockets of soft apple and a golden crust that adds just the right amount of bite.

Rooted in the tradition of Dorset apple cake—a regional favorite from England’s southwest—this traybake version simplifies the classic into a one-pan wonder. Mary Berry’s take stands out for its all-in-one batter method, which streamlines prep without sacrificing flavor. Her use of cooking apples like Bramley ensures a balance of sweetness and acidity, while optional add-ins like sultanas or almonds offer delightful variation. It’s a bake that celebrates seasonal produce and timeless comfort, ideal for autumn gatherings or cozy afternoons indoors.

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

• Apples: Bramley apples are ideal for their tartness and ability to soften beautifully during baking. Granny Smiths work well too, offering a firmer texture and bright flavor. Thin, even slices ensure the apples cook through and distribute evenly.
• Butter: Adds richness and moisture. Room-temperature butter blends smoothly in the all-in-one method, creating a tender crumb.
• Flour: Self-raising flour provides structure and lift. The right ratio ensures the cake rises without becoming dense.
• Sugar: Light muscovado or caster sugar adds sweetness and a subtle caramel note. It balances the tartness of the apples.
• Eggs: Bind the batter and contribute to the cake’s light texture. Use large eggs for consistency.
• Cinnamon & Lemon Zest: Cinnamon brings warmth and spice, while lemon zest brightens the flavor and complements the apples.
• Optional Additions:
  • Sultanas: Add bursts of sweetness and chew.
  • Flaked Almonds: Provide crunch and a nutty contrast. These ingredients work in harmony to create a cake that’s flavorful, moist, and perfectly balanced.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

1. Prepping the Apples: Peel and core 550g of cooking apples. Slice thinly—about 3–5mm thick—to ensure they soften during baking without turning mushy. Toss with a little lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Mixing the Batter: Use the all-in-one method. In a large bowl, combine 225g room-temperature butter, 225g caster sugar, 275g self-raising flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 4 large eggs, and 1 tsp cinnamon. Beat until smooth and well combined. This method saves time and still yields a light, even texture.
3. Layering and Baking: Grease and line a 9×13-inch traybake tin. Spread half the batter evenly in the tin. Layer half the apple slices over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and apples. Sprinkle with a little extra sugar and flaked almonds if using. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan) for 45–50 minutes, or until golden and a skewer comes out clean.
4. Cooling and Serving: Let the traybake cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with custard, cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.