Mary Berry Manor House Cake Recipe

Dive into the elegance of British baking with the Manor House Cake, a classic recipe that brings a touch of sophistication to your afternoon tea. This cake, celebrated for its rich texture and delectable taste, finds its roots in the traditional English kitchen. The Manor House Cake, often associated with the esteemed Mary Berry, is not just a dessert; it's a slice of British culinary heritage. Below, we've curated a detailed guide featuring the recipe, inspired by the expertise of Mary Berry and further enriched by contributions from various culinary experts.

Manor House Cake: A Brief Description

The Manor House Cake is a splendid creation that boasts a buttery base interspersed with juicy sultanas, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Optional additions like orange marmalade and Seville orange zest can elevate the flavor profile, making it a versatile recipe suited to various palates.

Cultural or Historical Context

Rooted in British culinary traditions, this cake serves as a testament to the timeless appeal of simple yet rich flavors. It’s a testament to the baking prowess of individuals like Mary Berry, who has championed British baking to worldwide acclaim.

Ingredients for the Manor House Cake

• 250g self-raising flour
• 150g butter or margarine, cubed
• 125g white caster sugar
• 100g sultanas
• Optional: 2 tbsp orange marmalade, zest of 1 Seville orange, 2 tbsp Demerara sugar for topping
• 2 large free-range eggs, beaten with 1 tbsp milk

Preparation Instructions

1. Preheat your oven and prepare your baking tin.
2. Combine flour and butter until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
3. Stir in sugar, then the beaten eggs and milk until well combined.
4. Mix in sultanas (and optional marmalade and orange zest).
5. Bake until golden brown and a skewer inserted comes out clean.
6. Cool and optionally sprinkle with Demerara sugar before serving.

Storage and Reheating

The Manor House Cake keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature, retaining its moisture and flavor for several days.

Nutritional Information

A typical serving size offers a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, amounting to approximately 398 calories per slice, with specific details on fats, sugars, and proteins contributing to its nutritional profile.

FAQ about the Manor House Cake

• Can I use lemon zest instead of orange? Yes, lemon zest can be a refreshing alternative.
• How do I prevent sultanas from sinking? Dusting them in flour before adding to the mixture can help.
• Can this cake be frozen? Yes, it freezes well for longer storage.

The Manor House Cake is a delightful representation of British baking, combining simplicity with elegance. Whether served at an afternoon tea or as a comforting treat, it's a recipe that resonates with the warmth of home baking.