Description of this recipe:
This Easter Traybake is a delightful and festive dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the joyful spirit of Easter. It’s a moist chocolate cake topped with a creamy chocolate icing and adorned with an assortment of colorful Easter treats. Perfect for family gatherings, Easter brunch, or simply to indulge in the holiday spirit, this traybake is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why you will love this recipe:
You’ll love this Easter Traybake for its simplicity and the joyful celebration it brings to the table. The cake is easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for novice bakers and seasoned cooks alike. The combination of chocolate and sweet treats creates a delicious treat that is both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover Easter chocolates!
Introduction
Easter is a time of celebration, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food. This Easter Traybake captures the essence of the holiday with its rich chocolate flavor and festive decorations. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch or looking for a sweet treat to share with loved ones, this traybake is the perfect choice. It’s simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and can be easily customized with your favorite Easter candies. Let’s dive into how to create this delightful dessert that will surely brighten up your holiday table!
Ingredients:
- 150ml sunflower oil, plus extra for the tin
- 165g golden caster sugar
- 2 eggs
- 150ml milk
- 165g self-raising flour
- 3 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 100g milk or dark chocolate, chopped (either a chocolate bar or Easter egg, broken up)
- 100g butter, softened
- 100g icing sugar
- 100g Easter treats (chocolate eggs, sweets, chocolate bar pieces)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or gas mark 4. Prepare your traybake tin (approximately 20 x 30cm and 5cm deep) by greasing it with some sunflower oil and lining it with baking paper to ensure easy removal later.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sunflower oil, golden caster sugar, eggs, and milk. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Sift the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, and bicarbonate of soda over the wet ingredients. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the mixture with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cake.
Step 4: Pour the batter into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The cake is done when it has risen well and springs back when lightly pressed. Once baked, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: While the cake is cooling, prepare the icing. Melt the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in short bursts in the microwave, stirring in between until smooth. Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and icing sugar together until pale and fluffy. Gradually drizzle in the melted chocolate while continuing to beat until the icing is smooth and uniform in color. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the chocolate icing over the top, creating peaks and swirls for decoration. Finally, scatter the Easter treats over the icing for a festive touch.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Easter Traybake as a delightful dessert at your Easter brunch or as a sweet treat during afternoon tea. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. This cake also makes for a fantastic centerpiece on your dessert table, attracting both children and adults alike.
Tips:
- For an extra chocolatey flavor, consider adding chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
- If you want to make this cake even more festive, use a mix of different colored Easter treats.
- Ensure that your ingredients, especially the butter, are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- Feel free to experiment with different flavors of icing or toppings, such as sprinkles or crushed cookies.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 250 per slice (based on 12 slices)
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
This Easter Traybake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and colors that embodies the spirit of Easter. Its simple preparation and delightful taste make it a must-have for your holiday festivities. By following this recipe, you can create a beautiful and delicious treat that will leave your guests in awe. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make this Easter unforgettable with a traybake that everyone will love!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use different types of chocolate for the icing?
Yes! You can use white chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a mix of different chocolates for the icing. Each will give a unique flavor and appearance to your traybake. - What can I substitute for sunflower oil?
You can use any neutral oil, such as vegetable oil or canola oil. If you prefer a healthier option, melted coconut oil or applesauce can also work, though they may alter the flavor slightly. - How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to also use gluten-free baking powder if your blend does not contain it. - Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to ice and serve it. - What other toppings can I use besides Easter treats?
You can get creative with toppings! Consider using fresh berries, crushed nuts, or even edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.
