Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe With Crunchy Malt Chocolate Topping

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Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe

Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe
Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe With Crunchy Malt Chocolate Topping 9

This Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe is a simple no bake dessert made for sharing. It takes just 20 minutes to prepare and no baking is required. You get a crunchy biscuit base, a smooth milk chocolate layer and crunchy Maltesers on top. The slab chills until firm, then cuts into neat squares that hold their shape well.

It is perfect for family gatherings, tea parties, parties and potlucks, and it also works as an afternoon treat or a last minute dessert on a busy day. The recipe yields 12 squares. Prep time is 20 minutes and chilling time is separate.

The recipe is adapted from the Mary Berry Malteser tray bake recipe and keeps its defining layers and amounts.

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What is Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake?

Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake is a no bake dessert built in layers. The base is buttery biscuit, pressed firmly into the tin. A rich chocolate layer goes over the base, and crunchy Maltesers finish the top.

  • Crispy texture from the biscuit base and the Maltesers
  • Chewy texture through the slab
  • Creamy texture from the smooth chocolate layer

It needs minimal equipment and can be made in advance. Keep it in the fridge until serving and the squares stay firm and neat. For another chilled biscuit based dessert, try this Vanilla no bake biscuit cake on a different day.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This recipe is simple and it needs no baking skills, so it suits beginners well. It uses minimal ingredients, and many cooks will already have most of them in the pantry. The active work comes together in 20 minutes, which helps on busy schedules.

  • Perfect for sharing at parties and potlucks
  • Good as a simple afternoon treat
  • Easy to customize with nuts or dried fruits
  • Simple to make ahead and store in the fridge
  • Easy to cut into 12 squares for serving

Because the tray bake sets in the fridge, you can make it ahead and serve it when needed. You simply cut the chilled slab, arrange the squares and serve.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake

Each ingredient has a clear job in this tray bake. Digestive biscuits are a British cookie. In the United States, a plain, crisp and not overly sweet cookie works as the substitute described for this recipe. Keep the amounts in grams as listed here.

  • Digestive biscuits, 200g, crushed. These form the base and add crunchy texture.
  • Unsalted butter, 100g, melted. This binds the biscuit base and provides richness.
  • Golden syrup, 2 tbsp. This adds sweetness and helps hold the mixture together.
  • Milk chocolate, 200g, melted. This creates the smooth and creamy topping.
  • Maltesers, 100g. Use them crushed for the base and whole for the topping for crunch.
  • White chocolate, optional. Drizzle it over the top for a decorative finish. No amount is given in the source.

Equipment

You need only a short list of basic tools for this recipe.

  • Mixing bowl, large enough for the biscuit crumbs
  • Saucepan, for melting the butter and golden syrup
  • 8 inch square tray or baking tin
  • Spatula
  • Spoon for mixing and for pressing the base

Line the 8 inch square tin with parchment so the chilled slab lifts out cleanly for cutting.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake

Work in order and press the base with care. Most of the result comes from fine crumbs, even pressing and full chilling through the slab.

  1. Crush the biscuits. In a large mixing bowl, crush the digestive biscuits until you have fine crumbs. Fine crumbs pack together better than large pieces.
  2. Melt the butter and syrup. In a saucepan, gently melt the butter and golden syrup over low heat until fully combined.
  3. Mix the base. Pour the melted butter mixture over the crushed biscuits and mix well. Stir in half of the crushed Maltesers for extra crunch.
  4. Press the base. Spread the biscuit mixture evenly in the tray, pressing it down firmly with the back of a spoon. Work into the corners so the layer is even.
  5. Melt the chocolate. In a separate bowl, melt the milk chocolate either in the microwave or using a double boiler. Melt it gently so it stays smooth.
  6. Add the topping. Pour the melted chocolate over the biscuit base, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining whole Maltesers over the top. Add the optional white chocolate drizzle at this stage if you use it.
  7. Chill the tray bake. Place the tray in the fridge for at least 1 to 2 hours until set. The slab should feel firm through the center before you cut it.
  8. Slice and serve. Once set, cut the tray bake into squares and enjoy. You should get 12 squares from the slab.

For another make ahead option, try this No bake cookie butter icebox cake.

Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe, Instructions To Make Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake
Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe With Crunchy Malt Chocolate Topping 10

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake

The squares are rich, so pairings that add contrast work best. Serve small squares and let the drink or side do the balancing.

  • Afternoon tea with English tea. A classic pairing for a sweet afternoon plate.
  • Vanilla ice cream. The cold and creamy scoop contrasts with the rich chocolate.
  • Fresh berries. Raspberries or strawberries add freshness and tartness.
  • Whipped cream. Light and airy, it balances the richness of the squares.
  • Strong black coffee. The strong flavor cuts through the sweetness.
  • Dark chocolate sauce. A drizzle adds extra indulgence.
  • Salted caramel sauce. This adds a sweet and salty contrast.

Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake

  • Use high quality milk chocolate for a smooth and creamy finish.
  • Lightly crush half of the Maltesers and keep the other half whole for varied texture.
  • Press the biscuit base down tightly so it holds together once set.
  • Chill thoroughly in the fridge so the slab sets properly before cutting.
  • Add an optional white chocolate drizzle on top for decoration.
  • For clean and neat slices, use a sharp knife heated with hot water, then dried, and cut with steady pressure.
  • Store the tray bake in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Fine crumbs matter more than speed. Press the full surface, not just the center, and check the corners.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake

Keep the base method the same and change one element at a time. That way the slab still sets well and the flavor stays balanced.

  • Stir in chopped hazelnuts or almonds for added crunch.
  • Swap milk chocolate for dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
  • Add dried cranberries or raisins for chewy texture and slight tartness.
  • Add a caramel layer between the biscuit base and the chocolate topping.
  • For a vegan version, use vegan butter and chocolate alternatives for a dairy free version.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake

  • Refrigerate in an airtight container to keep the bake fresh for up to 5 days.
  • Do not store it at room temperature, because the chocolate can melt.
  • For longer storage, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Use vacuum sealed bags for optimal freshness when freezing.
  • Place parchment paper between layers when stacking squares to prevent sticking.
  • Label and date containers so you can track freshness.

Always return leftover squares to the fridge promptly. Single wraps make it easy to take out only what you need.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake

This dessert is not reheated. It is best enjoyed cold, and gentle thawing is all that frozen squares need.

  • Thaw a frozen bake at room temperature for about an hour.
  • Or transfer it from the freezer to the fridge overnight for a softer texture.
  • Avoid microwaving, because it can melt the chocolate unevenly.
  • Serve chilled straight from the fridge for a firmer bite.

Serve the squares cold so the chocolate layer stays smooth and set and the biscuit base keeps its crunch.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Healthier?

These changes come from the source suggestions. They adjust the recipe, so expect the flavor and texture to shift a little.

  • Use dark chocolate with lower sugar content to reduce sugar.
  • Use sugar free golden syrup to cut down overall sugar levels.
  • Swap regular digestive biscuits for whole grain or oat based alternatives.
  • Add nuts to increase fiber and protein content.
  • Replace butter with coconut oil as a dairy free option described as a healthier fat option.

Start with one change, such as dark chocolate, if you still want the result close to the original.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Per serving, the source gives the values below. Sodium and cholesterol were not given, so they are not listed.

  • Calories: 220
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Fiber: 1g

Final Words

Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake is an indulgent dessert suitable for any occasion. Its no bake preparation makes it convenient for busy days, and its rich flavor makes it consistently popular for sharing.

Press the buttery crumbs firmly into the lined tin, chill until fully set, then cut clean squares. With 20 minutes of prep and a firm fridge set, this tray bake is easy to make and ready to share.

FAQs

How long does Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake need to chill before cutting?

Chill the tray bake in the fridge for at least 1 to 2 hours before cutting. Preparation takes 20 minutes, but the slab needs this extra time for the butter and 200g milk chocolate topping to firm up right through. Cutting too early can cause soft, messy squares, so wait until the top feels set and firm to the touch.

What can I use instead of digestive biscuits in the United States?

Use 200g of graham crackers or another plain, crisp, not overly sweet cookie in place of the 200g digestive biscuits. Crush them to fine crumbs and weigh them for consistency, since different cookies crush to different densities. Keep the same 100g melted unsalted butter and 2 tablespoons golden syrup to bind the base firmly.

How should I store Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake and can I freeze it?

Store the squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, with parchment between layers to prevent sticking, and serve chilled for a firmer bite. For longer storage, wrap individual squares and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight rather than in the microwave, which can melt the chocolate unevenly.

Why is my Malteser tray bake crumbling and how do I cut clean squares?

Crumbling usually means the base was under-pressed, under-chilled, or too dry. Press the biscuit mixture down firmly and evenly, chill it thoroughly, then lift the set slab out to cut. Use a sharp knife warmed in hot water, dried and wiped between cuts, for neater edges through the hard chocolate.

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Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe

Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe

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Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe This Mary Berry Malteser Tray Bake Recipe is a simple no bake dessert made for sharing. It takes just 20 minutes to prepare and no baking is required.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 12 squares 1x

Ingredients

Scale

200 g Digestive biscuits, crushed
100 g Unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp Golden syrup
200 g Milk chocolate, melted
100 g Maltesers, crushed for the base and whole for the topping
White chocolate, drizzled over the top

Instructions

1-In a large mixing bowl, crush the: In a large mixing bowl, crush the digestive biscuits until you have fine crumbs.
2-In a saucepan, gently melt the butter: In a saucepan, gently melt the butter and golden syrup over low heat until fully combined.
3-Pour the melted butter mixture over the: Pour the melted butter mixture over the crushed biscuits and mix well. Stir in half of the crushed Maltesers for extra crunch.
4-Spread the biscuit mixture evenly in the: Spread the biscuit mixture evenly in the tray, pressing it down firmly with the back of a spoon.
5-In a separate bowl, melt the milk: In a separate bowl, melt the milk chocolate either in the microwave or using a double boiler.
6-Pour the melted chocolate over the biscuit: Pour the melted chocolate over the biscuit base, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining whole Maltesers over the top.
7-Place the tray in the fridge for: Place the tray in the fridge for at least 1-2 hours until set.
8-Once set, cut the tray bake into: Once set, cut the tray bake into squares and enjoy!

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  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Method: no_cook

Nutrition

  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g

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