Mary Berry Banana Tray Bake

Name: Mary Berry's Banana Tray Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Multiple servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: Ripe bananas; Self-raising flour; Butter; Caster sugar; Eggs; Baking powder; Milk

Dive into the world of baking with Mary Berry's renowned Banana Tray Bake, a recipe that embodies simplicity and flavor, perfect for any home baker. This recipe, originating from Mary Berry's vast collection of delightful treats, showcases the versatility and natural sweetness of bananas, making it an ideal choice for afternoon tea, a family gathering, or just a simple indulgent moment to yourself.

Mary Berry's Banana Tray Bake: A Brief Overview

This Banana Tray Bake is a testament to Mary Berry's expertise in creating recipes that are both easy to follow and guaranteed to yield delicious results. The use of ripe bananas infuses the bake with a moist texture and rich flavor, while the straightforward preparation process ensures that even novice bakers can achieve success. It's a recipe that doesn't just cater to the sweet tooth but also adds a touch of home-baked comfort to any occasion.

Cultural and Historical Context

Bananas have been a staple ingredient in baking due to their natural sweetness and the moist texture they lend to baked goods. Mary Berry, a doyenne of British baking, has adeptly utilized this ingredient to craft a bake that's both comforting and delightfully tasty. Her recipes often reflect a blend of traditional British baking with modern simplicity, making them timeless favorites.

Ingredients for Mary Berry's Banana Tray Bake

Ripe bananas: The star of the recipe, providing moisture and sweetness.
Self-raising flour: For a light and airy texture.
Butter: Adds richness and flavor.
Caster sugar: For sweetness.
Eggs: To bind the ingredients together.
Baking powder: Ensures the bake rises properly.
Milk: Adds moisture, ensuring the bake is not too dry.

For exact measurements and additional ingredients, refer to Mary Berry's original recipe.

Preparation Instructions

The process involves mashing the ripe bananas before combining them with the other ingredients to create a smooth batter. The batter is then poured into a prepared tray and baked until golden and springy to the touch. The simplicity of the method makes this recipe a joy to make, regardless of your baking experience.

Storage and Reheating

This Banana Tray Bake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, ensuring it retains its moisture and flavor. For longer storage, it can be frozen and then thawed at room temperature. Reheating, if desired, should be done gently to avoid drying out the cake.

Nutritional Information

Given the use of bananas, this bake offers more than just taste; it's also a source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, like any treat, it should be enjoyed in moderation, especially considering the sugar and butter content.

FAQ about Mary Berry's Banana Tray Bake

Can I use overripe bananas? Yes, the riper the bananas, the better the flavor and moisture they will add to the bake.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free? By substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free alternative and ensuring baking powder is gluten-free, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free.

How can I ensure my tray bake is moist? Using ripe bananas and not overbaking are key factors in ensuring the bake remains moist and delicious.

This Banana Tray Bake is a shining example of Mary Berry's ability to create recipes that are both accessible and immensely satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises a delightful baking experience and a delicious outcome that's sure to impress.

For more detailed instructions and insights into Mary Berry's baking world, her book "Simple Cakes" provides a treasure trove of recipes and tips for the aspiring baker.