There’s something about a chocolate traybake that just works. It’s simple, reliable, and always goes down well, whether you’re making it for the kids, a weekend treat, or just because you fancy something homemade.
This is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. It doesn’t need anything fancy, it’s easy to throw together, and it turns out soft, rich, and full of flavour every time.
If you’ve ever wanted a go-to chocolate cake that doesn’t take hours or leave you with loads of washing up, this is it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This traybake recipe is all about keeping things simple without losing that proper homemade taste.
It uses basic ingredients you probably already have in the cupboard, and the method is straightforward enough to follow even on a busy day. It’s also a great one to make with kids as there’s plenty they can help with.
The texture is soft and moist, with a light sponge that doesn’t feel heavy. The chocolate icing on top adds just the right amount of sweetness without being too much.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 200g self-raising flour
- 200g caster sugar
- 200g butter or margarine (softened)
- 4 eggs
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the icing:
- 100g butter
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 200g icing sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
Optional:
- Chocolate sprinkles
- Chocolate chips
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and lining a rectangular baking tin with baking paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This doesn’t need to be perfect, just well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing in between each one. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift in the flour and cocoa powder, then gently fold everything together until you have a smooth mixture. Try not to overmix, just combine it until there are no dry bits left.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared tin and spread it out evenly.
- Bake for around 25 to 30 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean when inserted into the centre.
- While the cake is baking, you can make the icing. Melt the butter in a saucepan or microwave, then stir in the cocoa powder. Add the icing sugar and milk, mixing until smooth.
- Once the cake is out of the oven and still slightly warm, spread the icing over the top. This helps it melt slightly into the cake, which gives a really nice finish.
- Add sprinkles or chocolate chips if you like, then leave it to cool before cutting into squares.
Tips for the Best Chocolate Traybake
A few small tips can make a big difference with this recipe.
Make sure your butter is softened before you start, as this helps everything mix more easily. If it’s too cold, the mixture can end up a bit lumpy.
Try not to overbake the cake. It should be just set in the middle. Overbaking can make it dry, and this recipe is at its best when it’s soft and slightly moist.
If you want a richer flavour, you can add a handful of chocolate chips into the mixture before baking.
How to Store Your Traybake
Once cooled, store your traybake in an airtight container at room temperature. It will usually stay fresh for around 3 to 4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just cut it into squares, wrap them individually, and defrost when needed.
This makes it really handy for busy weeks when you want something ready to go.
Final Thoughts
This chocolate traybake is one of those recipes that proves baking doesn’t need to be complicated to be good. It’s quick, easy, and always delivers.
Whether you’re baking with kids, making something for the family, or just want a simple treat, this is a recipe you can rely on.
Once you’ve made it a couple of times, it’ll likely become one of your regular go-to bakes.
FAQs
- What size tin should I use?
- A standard rectangular tin (around 9×13 inches) works well for this recipe.
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- Yes, margarine works perfectly fine and can help keep costs down.
- Can I freeze chocolate traybake?
- Yes, it freezes really well. Just wrap it properly and defrost when needed.
- Can I make this with kids?
- Definitely. It’s a simple recipe with easy steps, making it ideal for baking together.
