Mary Berry All In One Chocolate Cake Recipe
Mary Berry's All-In-One Chocolate Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the richness of chocolate in a simple yet decadent cake. The recipe is designed to be straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers looking to create a chocolate masterpiece that's both delicious and visually appealing.
Cultural or Historical Context This chocolate cake recipe is one of Mary Berry's classics, showcasing her philosophy of creating easy-to-follow recipes that yield impressive results. Mary Berry, a respected figure in the culinary world, especially in the UK, is known for her ability to make baking accessible to everyone. Her recipes often become household favorites, and this chocolate cake is no exception, perfect for a wide range of occasions, from birthdays to casual gatherings.
Ingredients List
- For the Cake:
- Cocoa powder (30g)
- Boiling water (5 tbsp)
- Caster sugar (225g)
- Baking spread (225g)
- Self-raising flour (275g)
- Baking powder (1 tsp)
- Large eggs (4)
- Milk (1 tbsp)
- For the Ganache Icing:
- Pouring double cream (450ml)
- Plain chocolate (450g)
- For the Filling:
- Cream liqueur (4 tbsp)
- Pouring double cream, whipped to soft peaks (300ml)
- For Decoration:
- Maltesers (175g)
- Chocolate truffles, roughly chopped (8)
Preparation Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your traybake tin with non-stick baking paper.
- Create a smooth paste with cocoa powder and boiling water, then add the remaining cake ingredients, whisking until light and fluffy.
- Bake until well risen and set aside to cool. Repeat for the second traybake.
- For the ganache, heat the cream and then add chocolate pieces, stirring until melted.
- Assemble the cake with the cream liqueur and whipped cream filling, cover with ganache, and decorate with Maltesers and chocolate truffles.
Storage and Reheating
This cake can be made and assembled up to 6 hours ahead of time. It's freezer-friendly even when iced, making it convenient for advance preparation. Thaw at room temperature before serving if frozen.
Nutritional Information
While the exact nutritional breakdown depends on the specific ingredients used, this cake is rich in calories, fat, and sugar due to its decadent chocolate and cream components. For those watching their intake, enjoy in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, the cake layers can be baked a day ahead, and the entire cake can be assembled and iced up to 6 hours before serving.
- Is it freezer-friendly? Yes, the completed cake can be frozen and enjoyed later. Just remember to thaw it properly before serving.
- Can I use a different type of chocolate for the ganache? Yes, while plain chocolate is recommended, feel free to use your favorite type. Adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Final Thoughts Mary Berry's All-In-One Chocolate Cake is a testament to her baking philosophy—simple, straightforward, and absolutely scrumptious. It's a versatile cake that's sure to impress, whether it's for a special occasion or a casual dessert. The combination of rich chocolate cake with creamy ganache and a hint of liqueur in the filling makes it a grown-up version of a classic treat. Serve with fresh berries for an added touch of elegance.
Original recipe by Mary Berry from Mary Makes it Easy.