Try Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe, a classic from Britain. It’s a favourite among bakers and dessert lovers. This recipe, from Berry’s Fast Cakes Cookbook, offers a buttery taste that’s hard to resist1.
Ever wondered what makes this seed cake special? What’s its place in British baking history? Let’s explore the secrets of this treasured treat together.
Key Takeaways
- Mary Berry’s Old Fashioned Seed Cake is a classic British dessert that serves 8 people and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes to prepare.
- The recipe includes key ingredients like margarine, superfine sugar, eggs, self-rising flour, baking powder, caraway seeds, lemon zest, and milk.
- This cake is known for its buttery flavour and unique taste profile, making it a beloved staple of traditional British baking.
- The recipe can be found in Mary Berry’s Fast Cakes Cookbook, showcasing the renowned chef’s expertise in classic desserts.
- Baking this seed cake allows you to enjoy a slice of British culinary history in your own home.
Introduction to Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe
Seed cake is a traditional British treat with a unique taste, thanks to caraway seeds2. It’s like Madeira cake but lighter3. This dessert has a rich history, often enjoyed during afternoon tea2.
What is Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe?
Seed cake is a classic British cake with caraway seeds, giving it an aniseed flavour3. Mary Berry says it’s a recipe that sparks strong feelings, like Marmite3. Its taste and texture are a true test of your taste buds.
A Brief History of Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe
Seed cake has been a favourite on English tea tables since medieval times2. It was popular until newer cakes came along in the Edwardian era2. Originally, it was given to workers during seed-sowing festivals2.
Over time, chefs like Jane Grigson and Nigel Slater have made it even more popular2.
“Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe is a recipe that people either love or loathe, comparing it to the divisive nature of Marmite.”
The Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe unique flavour and nostalgic charm make it a beloved part of Britain’s food history2. It’s perfect for a comforting afternoon or as a treat with English tea2. Seed cake remains a favourite among those who love vintage cakes and traditional British baking2.
Ingredients You Will Need
To make Mary Berry’s Old Fashioned Seed Cake, you’ll need some basic ingredients1. You’ll need 12 tablespoons of margarine, half a cup of superfine sugar, and 2 large eggs. Also, 2 cups of self-rising flour, 1 level teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 rounded tablespoon of caraway seeds are required. Don’t forget the finely grated zest of 1 lemon and 4 tablespoons of milk1.
Basic Ingredients For Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe
- 170g margarine
- 100g superfine sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 225g self-rising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp caraway seeds
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 tbsp milk
Optional Ingredients for Variation
For a different taste, try adding chopped candied peel. It can balance the strong flavour of the caraway seeds4. Candied peel is a classic addition to many baked goods, like mary berry recipes and other homemade baked goods5.
Caraway seeds are what make a seed cake special5. These seeds have been used in European cooking for thousands of years. They were brought to Britain by the Romans and have been used in English baking for centuries5.
“You either love or loathe seed cake,” notes Mary Berry4.
The caraway seeds give the cake a unique, slightly licorice-like taste5. With self-raising flour, baking powder, and milk, these ingredients make the classic mary berry recipes and homemade baked goods we all know and love4.
Step-by-Step Preparation For Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe
Making a traditional British classic seed cake is a cherished tradition. It needs careful attention to detail. First, collect all the ingredients and get them ready for mixing. Measure the flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and other important parts with care. This ensures a balanced batter6.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Begin by heating your oven to the right temperature. Grease and line a baking tin or cake pan. This makes the cake easy to remove after baking. Measure out the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sift them together to add air and make the cake light and fluffy7.
Mixing the Batter
- In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Slowly add the beaten eggs, making sure each one is fully mixed before adding the next.
- Fold in the sifted dry ingredients gently, avoiding overmixing.
Adding the Caraway Seeds
The key feature of a traditional British seed cake is the caraway seeds. Fold the caraway seeds into the batter carefully. Save a few to sprinkle on top before baking. The caraway seeds give the cake its unique, earthy flavour6.
“The old fashioned seed cake contains caraway seeds and mixed peel, and is noted to have a unique taste similar to marmite.”
Baking Your Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe
To make the perfect mary berry old fashioned seed cake recipe, you need to focus on the baking. First, heat your oven to 350°F (180°C) or 320°F (160°C) for a fan oven8. This temperature helps the cake rise evenly and get a lovely golden crust.
Choosing the right bakeware is key for your homemade baked goods. Use a deep, 7-inch round cake tin, greased and lined with non-stick baking paper8. This size and preparation will give your cake the right structure and texture.
When it comes to baking time and temperature, they’re very important for a perfect seed cake8. Bake for about 1 hour, or until the cake is well-risen and has shrunk from the tin’s sides. Check if it’s done by inserting a skewer into the centre; it should come out clean.
| Baking Metric | Recommended Value |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 350°F (180°C) or 320°F (160°C) for a fan oven |
| Bakeware | Deep, 7-inch round cake tin, greased and lined with non-stick baking paper |
| Baking Time | Approximately 1 hour |
By following these steps for oven preheating, bakeware selection, and baking time and temperature, you’ll get a perfect mary berry old fashioned seed cake recipe every time. With a bit of care and attention, you’ll enjoy a tasty, homemade seed cake that’s true to traditional British baking.
Tips for the Perfect Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe
Baking a vintage cake recipe from Mary Berry can be a joy. But, there are a few key tips to make sure it turns out right. From avoiding common mistakes to storing it properly, let’s dive into how to bake the perfect seed cake.
How to Avoid Common Mistakes
First, use cold margarine straight from the fridge for better texture9. Also, measure your ingredients carefully and avoid over-mixing. Over-mixing can make the cake dense and heavy9.
Storing Your Seed Cake
After baking, let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack9. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Or, freeze it for up to 3 months9.
| Vintage Cake Recipe | Servings |
|---|---|
| Seed-Topped Banana Bread | 1010 |
| Victoria Sponge Sandwich | 410 |
| Malted Chocolate Cake | 1210 |
| Lemon & Lime Cheesecakes | 810 |
| Devonshire Apple Cake | 8-1010 |
| Viennese Whirls | 810 |
| Lemon Drizzle Traybake | 810 |
| Cardamom Sponge With White Chocolate Icing | 810 |
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to baking a perfect Mary Berry seed cake. Your family and friends will love it11.
Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to enjoy Mary Berry’s seed cake. For a traditional British teatime, try it with English breakfast tea. The provided recipe received a star rating of 4.8 out of 5, based on 8 ratings.12
For a special touch, top the cake with clotted cream or icing sugar. You can also garnish it with fresh berries for a pop of colour. For something different, pair it with cheese or jam.
Pairing with Beverages
Mary Berry’s seed cake goes well with many drinks. The nutritional information per slice of the cake includes: 745 kcal, 42g fat, 15g saturates, 86g carbs, 67g sugars, 1g fibre, 6g protein, and 1.3g salt.12 Enjoy it with Earl Grey or English breakfast tea for a classic taste. If you prefer something sweeter, try it with milk or a cappuccino.
Creative Presentation Ideas
To make Mary Berry’s seed cake look special, try these ideas. The recipe requires 225g of baking spread, 225g of self-raising flour, 100g of golden caster sugar, 100g of brown sugar, 4 large eggs, and other ingredients as listed.12 Decorate slices with edible flowers or fresh thyme. Or, serve them on vintage tea plates for a fancy look.
“This seed cake is a true classic that takes me back to my childhood. The flavour is simply divine, and it pairs so beautifully with a cup of tea.”
– Joanna, Avid Baker
Variations on the Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe
Mary Berry’s traditional British seed cake recipe is a timeless favourite13. It’s perfect for adding your own twist. Two favourite changes are the citrus seed cake and the chocolate seed cake.
Citrus Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe
A citrus version of the seed cake is a refreshing choice14. Add orange or lemon zest to the mix for a zesty kick. Top it off with a citrus glaze for an extra burst of flavour.
Chocolate Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe
For those who love sweet treats, chocolate seed cake is a dream come true15. Mix in cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate for a rich taste. The chocolate and caraway seeds create a unique and tasty mix.
These variations keep the spirit of the traditional seed cake alive13. They let bakers add their own flair while staying true to the classic. It’s a way to honour the tradition while making it your own.
Nutritional Information
Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe is a delightful homemade treat. It brings back memories of vintage cake recipes. It’s important to think about its nutritional value and health effects16.
Caloric Breakdown
A single slice of this cake has about 307 calories16. It’s made with butter, sugar, eggs, and caraway seeds. These ingredients make it a bit high in calories. If you’re watching your calories, you might want to look for other recipes or eat smaller portions.
Health Considerations
Even though it’s not low in calories, the cake has some health benefits. The caraway seeds help with digestion, making it easier to absorb nutrients16. Also, using traditional baking methods and ingredients is good for enjoying homemade treats in moderation.
Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe can be a lovely treat. But, it’s key to be careful with how much you eat. Knowing the nutritional facts helps us enjoy this vintage recipe in a healthy way.
Mary Berry’s Baking Philosophy
Mary Berry is a famous British baker known for her love of simple recipes and traditional baking17. Her seed cake is a perfect example of this. It’s a classic British treat.
Emphasis on Simplicity
Berry believes in making baking easy and straightforward17. Her seed cake recipe shows this. It has few ingredients and is easy to make.
Importance of Tradition
Berry also values keeping traditional British baking alive17. Even recipes like seed cake, which some might not like, are celebrated. This helps keep old baking traditions alive.
Berry is all about quality and detail in her baking17. Her seed cake recipe is proof of this. It shows her commitment to honouring the past while making it appealing today.
“I believe in keeping things simple and staying true to the traditional flavours and techniques that have made British baking so beloved around the world.”
– Mary Berry
Mary Berry has inspired many to love simple baking and traditional recipes17. Her seed cake is a great example of this. It shows the beauty of keeping things simple and traditional.
Reader Reviews and Testimonials
People have mixed feelings about Mary Berry’s seed cake recipe. Some love it, while others don’t like its unique taste18. Fans appreciate how it connects to British baking and brings back happy memories of childhood and tea with grandparents18.
Louise’s son loved the vegan version of the cake, and it was a hit at a school fair18. Helen makes it often, finding it easy to prepare. Debbie likes how simple it is to make with ingredients from UK shops18. Emma also finds it easy to make with common ingredients.
But, the caraway flavour isn’t for everyone. It’s different from the usual English teatime treats. Yet, those who try it often find it comforting and nostalgic, taking them back to their youth.
What Fans Are Saying
“The seed cake recipe is my go-to fruit cake recipe for a couple of years now. It’s easy to make and the instructions are clear.” – Helen
“The recipe uses commonly available ingredients in UK supermarkets, which is great. The instructions are very clear, and the cake turns out beautifully.” – Debbie
Favorite Memories with Seed Cake
Many readers link Mary Berry’s seed cake to happy childhood memories and cozy afternoons with grandparents. It brings a sense of tradition and comfort, taking them back to simpler times18.
For some, the seed cake is a treasured family recipe, enjoyed for generations. Its unique taste may not be for everyone. But for those who love it, it’s a delicious reminder of the joy of British baking and the lasting charm of nostalgic desserts18.
Frequently Asked Questions
Starting to bake the mary berry old fashioned seed cake recipe might raise some questions. We’ll cover some common ones to help your baking go smoothly.
Can I Use Different Seeds?
Caraway seeds are the usual pick for this mary berry old fashioned seed cake recipe. But, you can try other seeds for a new taste. Poppy seeds19 or sesame seeds can make a tasty and pretty cake. Just remember, the taste might change a bit with different seeds.
How Long Will It Last?
The mary berry old fashioned seed cake recipe stays fresh for a week in the fridge19. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months19. It’s great to make ahead and enjoy for weeks.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poppy seeds | 75g19 |
| Semi-skimmed milk | 190ml19 |
| Free-range eggs | 219 |
| Soft brown sugar | 100g19 |
| Sunflower oil | 150ml19 |
| Wholemeal self-raising flour | 225g19 |
| Skimmed milk powder | 40g19 |
| Baking temperature | 190°C (375°F/Gas mark 5)19 |
| Baking time | 20-25 minutes19 |
| Age when first trying the cake | 9 years old19 |
| Time it took to soak poppy seeds in milk | 1 hour19 |
These are just a few questions about the mary berry old fashioned seed cake recipe. If you have more, don’t hesitate to ask. We’re here to help you make the best homemade treats.
Conclusion
Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe shows the beauty of traditional British baking20. The 1840s saw the rise of baking powder, making cakes like the Victoria sandwich popular20. This cake, with its caraway seeds, brings back the old days of British baking.
Not everyone loves seed cake, but it’s a big part of Britain’s baking history20. The Women’s Institute (WI) makes Victoria sandwiches a true art. Baking this cake lets you explore old British baking techniques and flavours.
Recap of the Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe
Mary Berry’s Old Fashioned Seed Cake recipe is simple. It needs flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and caraway seeds20. Flour is key, with self-raising flour being a top choice. Some add extra baking powder for fluffier cakes20.
Butter is preferred over margarine, with extra egg yolk for colour and richness20.
Encouragement to Try Baking
Whether you’re experienced or new to British baking, try Mary Berry’s Old Fashioned Seed Cake. 
It’s a great way to connect with British culinary traditions. So, get your oven ready, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the aroma of freshly baked seed cake.
“Baking is a true expression of love. It’s a way to nurture and care for those around you, and to create something that brings joy and comfort.”
–Mary Berry
Mary Berry says baking is a labour of love. By making recipes like the Old Fashioned Seed Cake, you enjoy a tasty treat and connect with British baking heritage20. There are many ways to make Victoria sponge, like melting butter with water or the traditional creaming method20.
The exact ingredients for Victoria sponge vary, with the WI using egg weights for accuracy20.
| Key Ingredient | Typical Usage |
|---|---|
| Flour | Self-raising flour is a popular choice, sometimes with extra baking powder added for a fluffier texture20. |
| Butter | Butter is predominantly used over margarine in Victoria sponge recipes, often with extra egg yolk for added richness and color20. |
| Flavourings | Vanilla extract is a common flavouring, while raspberry jam and buttercream are typical fillings20. |
So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to British baking, try Mary Berry’s Old Fashioned Seed Cake20. Vanilla extract and raspberry jam are common in Victoria sponge. Some add caster sugar for crunch, while others use buttercream or fresh berries20.
Now that you’ve discovered the delightful19 flavours of Mary Berry’s Old Fashioned Seed Cake, it’s time to bake. Get your baking gear ready and give it a try. Share your seed cake creations with us and let us know how they turned out!
Post photos of your homemade baked goods1921 and share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
Share Your Seed Cake Experience!
We’d love to see your take on this timeless recipe. Whether you stick to the traditional formula or experiment with your own twist, we want to hear all about it. Your feedback and photos will inspire others to get in the kitchen and start baking.
So don’t be shy – show off your Mary Berry-worthy seed cakes. Let’s celebrate the joy of homemade baked goods21 together!
Follow for More Baking Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe!
If you’ve been bitten by the baking bug after mastering Mary Berry’s Seed Cake, be sure to follow us. We’ll be sharing a wealth of traditional British baking ideas21 that are sure to delight your senses and impress your friends and family. Stay tuned for the next instalment of our19 Mary Berry-inspired baking series!
FAQ
Can I use different seeds in the recipe?
How long will the seed cake last?
What is the calorie and nutritional content of the seed cake?
How do the caraway seeds affect the cake’s health benefits?
What is Mary Berry’s philosophy on baking?
How do readers generally respond to the seed cake’s unique flavor?
Source Links
- Mary Berry Old Fashioned Seed Cake Recipe – Mary Berry Recipes – https://maryberryrecipes.co.uk/mary-berry-old-fashioned-seed-cake-recipe/
- Seed cake and story – Crumbs on the Table – https://www.crumbsonthetable.co.uk/seed-cake-and-story/
- Old-Fashioned Seed Cake – http://risingtotheberry.blogspot.com/2012/06/old-fashioned-seed-cake.html
- Recipe 172 – Old-Fashioned Seed Cake – https://selfraiseflower.wordpress.com/2013/05/07/recipe-172-old-fashioned-seed-cake/
- Old-Fashioned Seed Cake – Traditional Plant-Based Cooking – https://traditionalplantbasedcooking.com/old-fashioned-seed-cake/
- Recipe – Lewis & Kim – https://lewisandkim.com/tag/recipe/
- Mary Berry Rock Cakes Recipe – Mary Berry Recipes – https://maryberryrecipes.co.uk/mary-berry-rock-cakes-recipe/
- Grandma’s Seedcake – Traditional Yorkshire Recipes – https://traditional-yorkshire-recipes.info/grandmas-seedcake/
- Sponge cake – Lewis & Kim – https://lewisandkim.com/tag/sponge-cake/
- Mary Berry – https://www.maryberry.co.uk/
- Mary Berry – https://www.maryberry.co.uk/recipes/
- Mary Berry’s orange cake – https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/mary-berrys-orange-layer-cake
- Albert Cake – Traditional Yorkshire Recipes – https://traditional-yorkshire-recipes.info/albert-cake/
- Sly Cake – Traditional Yorkshire Recipes – https://traditional-yorkshire-recipes.info/sly-cake/
- Mary Berry Cherry Cake – http://palatablepastime.com/2018/03/15/mary-berry-cherry-cake/
- Kim – Lewis & Kim – https://lewisandkim.com/tag/kim/
- Signature Bake: Mary Berry’s Tiramisu Cake – https://thebakedorkblog.wordpress.com/2018/06/16/signature-bake-mary-berrys-tiramisu-cake/
- Vegan Christmas Cake – https://www.thevegspace.co.uk/recipe-the-ultimate-vegan-christmas-cake/
- Cranks’ Poppy Seed Cake – https://shortcakesisters.blogspot.com/2013/05/cranks-poppy-seed-cake.html?view=flipcard
- How to make the perfect Victoria sponge cake – https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/wordofmouth/2013/may/16/how-bake-perfect-victoria-sponge-cake
- Dollybakes – http://www.dollybakes.co.uk/2012/03/
