Mary Berry Caraway Seed Cake

Discover the delight of baking Mary Berry's Caraway Seed Cake, a traditional British dessert that combines the nutty and slightly salty flavors of caraway seeds with a rich and moist cake texture. This cake is perfect for those looking to bake something unique and flavorful, ideal for pairing with your afternoon tea or serving as a standalone treat.

Ingredients for the Mary Berry Caraway Seed Cake

• Self-raising flour: 175g, essential for the cake's structure
• Baking powder: 1 tsp, aids in leavening the cake
• Softened butter: 175g, for a rich flavor
• Caster sugar: 175g, adds sweetness
• Large eggs: 3, beaten, to bind the ingredients
• Milk: 4 tbsp, to moisten the batter
• Caraway seeds: 1½ tsp, for the distinctive flavor
• Lemon zest: from 1 lemon, adds a fresh aroma
• Ground almonds: 50g, enhances texture and taste​​​​.

Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4. Grease and line a 2lb loaf tin with baking parchment.
2. Mix dry ingredients: Combine flour and baking powder.
3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, until light and fluffy.
4. Incorporate eggs: Gradually, then fold in the dry ingredients.
5. Add flavor: Mix in milk, caraway seeds, and lemon zest.
6. Bake: Pour into the tin and bake for 50-55 minutes. Check with a skewer for doneness.
7. Cool: Allow to cool in the tin before transferring to a wire rack​​​​.

Storage and Reheating

For freshness, wrap your Caraway Seed Cake in plastic wrap or foil, or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4 for a few minutes until rejuvenated​​​​.

Nutritional Information

Per serving, based on 10 servings, you can expect approximately:

• Calories: 411
• Fat: 24.3g
• Carbs: 40g
• Protein: 5g​​​​.

FAQ about the Mary Berry Caraway Seed Cake

• What flavor do caraway seeds add? Caraway seeds impart a bittersweet, nutty sharpness with hints of anise and citrus to the cake, offering a burst of distinctive flavor​​.
• Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, you can prepare the cake up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container at room temperature​​.
• How do I know when my cake is done? The cake is ready when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it is fully baked​​​​.

Mary Berry’s Caraway Seed Cake stands as a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the UK, offering a unique taste that's both comforting and sophisticated. Whether enjoyed plain, with a dollop of whipped cream, or alongside your favorite cup of tea, this cake promises a delightful baking adventure and a deliciously rewarding experience.

For a detailed recipe and more tips on making the perfect Caraway Seed Cake by Mary Berry, visit the original recipe pages​​​​​​.