Mary Berry Golden Syrup Cake: A Timeless Treat
Mary Berry, the queen of British baking, is known for her effortless, delicious recipes that never fail to impress. Among her many creations, the Golden Syrup Cake holds a special place for its simplicity and rich, comforting flavor. This cake is a true classic, perfect for afternoon tea or as a dessert served with a dollop of cream.
What Makes Golden Syrup Cake Special?
Golden syrup, with its deep caramel flavor, is the star of this cake. The moist sponge is infused with this sweet syrup, resulting in a rich, sticky texture that gets better as it rests. This cake is easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and fills your home with a warm, nostalgic aroma.
Ingredients
To recreate Mary Berry’s Golden Syrup Cake, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- 150g (5 oz) self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter (softened)
- 100g (3.5 oz) golden syrup (plus extra for glazing)
- 75g (2.5 oz) light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp ground ginger (optional, for a warm spice flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) / 320°F / Gas Mark 3.
- Grease and line a 1lb loaf tin with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a small saucepan, gently heat the butter, golden syrup, and sugar until melted and smooth. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, and ginger (if using).
Step 4: Create the Batter
- Add the eggs and milk to the cooled syrup mixture and whisk to combine. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until you achieve a smooth batter.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Glaze and Cool
- While the cake is still warm, brush the top with a little extra golden syrup for a glossy finish. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Tips for the Perfect Golden Syrup Cake
- Let It Rest: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen and the texture becomes more luscious.
- Storage: Wrap the cake tightly in foil or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 5 days.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve it on its own, with butter, or alongside clotted cream for a luxurious treat.
Why Mary Berry’s Recipe Stands Out
Mary Berry’s recipes are synonymous with reliability and classic British charm. Her Golden Syrup Cake is no exception, offering an easy-to-follow method and stunning results. It’s the perfect recipe for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Whether you’re looking to indulge in a slice with your afternoon tea or bake something for a special occasion, this Golden Syrup Cake is guaranteed to hit the sweet spot. Give it a try, and let this timeless treat become a staple in your baking repertoire!
