Looking for traybake cake recipes that are easy to make, slice and share? You’re in the right place. Cake traybakes are brilliant when you’re baking for family, taking something to a gathering or simply want a homemade cake without the fuss of layering and decorating.
I’ve brought together my favourite cake traybake recipes in one place so you can find the right bake for the occasion. Whether you fancy something simple with a cup of tea or a more indulgent treat, these sweet traybake recipes are all tested in my own kitchen.
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Why make a cake traybake?
A traybake gives you plenty of portions from one tin, and it’s usually straightforward to cut into squares or slices. Many are easy to decorate, too: a topping or icing can make a simple bake feel special.
They’re particularly handy for parties, school events, bake sales and weekends when you want a cake everyone can help themselves to.
My favourite traybake cake recipes
Cadburys Flake Traybake Cake Recipe
A light, moist and fluffy orange-flavoured sponge, perfectly balanced with a rich chocolate custard coating. To top it all off, a generous amount of Cadbury’s Flakes, adding that signature chocolatey goodness we all adore.
This easy chocolate fudge traybake is rich, moist, and completely dairy-free, topped with a light and airy chocolate icing. Made with simple pantry staples, it’s the perfect family-friendly bake for any occasion.
This easy-to-follow cherry Bakewell recipe combines the timeless combination of buttery almond sponge, tangy raspberry jam, and a delicate icing, topped with glace cherries for a stunning finish.
A classic Bakewell tart recipe but without the full icing and cherry on top. Made with a golden layer of shortcrust pastry filled with a delicious frangipane, fruity jam and topped with delicate icing.
Check the tin size. A different-sized tin can change the depth of the cake and its baking time, so follow the individual recipe.
Line the tin. Baking parchment makes it easier to lift the cooled cake out and cut neat portions.
Test before taking it out of the oven. Baking times vary, so check the cake using the method given in the recipe.
Let it cool before decorating. If you’re adding buttercream or icing that needs to set, a warm cake can make things messy.
Cut to suit the occasion. Make larger slices for dessert or smaller squares when you’re sharing a selection of bakes.
Frequently asked questions
What is a traybake cake?
A traybake cake is baked in a rectangular or square tin rather than a round cake tin. Once baked, it’s usually decorated in the tin or lifted out, then cut into slices or squares.
Are traybake cakes good for parties?
Yes. They’re easy to portion and serve, which makes them a practical choice when you’re baking for a group. Check each recipe for its yield so you can decide how many cakes to make.
Can you freeze a cake traybake?
It depends on the cake and its topping. Many plain cakes freeze well, but some icings and decorations are better added after defrosting. Check the storage advice in the individual recipe.
