Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake Recipe

Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake is a delightful no-bake dessert that combines rich, creamy chocolate with the satisfying crunch of Maltesers (a popular British chocolate-covered malted milk ball). This easy-to-make treat is beloved for its indulgent sweetness and crunchy texture, which makes it a hit at parties, gatherings, or even as a simple treat to enjoy with a cup of tea. Nigella, known for her accessible and comforting approach to cooking, offers a straightforward recipe for a tray bake that’s not only delicious but also requires minimal preparation.

Unlike many traditional cakes or bakes that require long baking times or complex techniques, this recipe focuses on creating a mouth-watering treat in a very short time. The magic of the Malteser Tray Bake lies in its simplicity-no oven is needed, and it requires just a few ingredients, all of which come together to form a deliciously sweet and crunchy bar that cuts easily into bite-sized squares.

Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Maltesers – The star ingredient, providing a delightful crunch and flavor.
2. Digestive Biscuits – These provide a crumbly base and work wonderfully to bind the ingredients together.
3. Butter – The fat that holds everything together and adds a rich taste.
4. Golden Syrup – Adds sweetness and helps bind the dry ingredients into a sticky mixture.
5. Milk Chocolate – The creamy topping that brings the whole bake together, adding a sweet and smooth layer.
6. Dark Chocolate (optional) – Some variations of the recipe use dark chocolate for a richer, slightly less sweet flavor on top, but this is optional.

These simple ingredients come together in perfect harmony, creating a treat that’s both satisfying and comforting.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need much in terms of equipment to make this Malteser Tray Bake, just the essentials that most kitchens have. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. A large mixing bowl – For combining all your dry ingredients like biscuits and Maltesers.
2. A saucepan – To melt the butter and golden syrup.
3. A spoon or spatula – For stirring the melted mixture and folding in the biscuits and Maltesers.
4. A tray or baking dish – A square or rectangular tray works best. A lined tray makes for easy removal of the bake once set.
5. A microwave or double boiler – To melt the chocolate, either method works depending on your preference.
6. Cling film or parchment paper – For lining the tray, ensuring an easy release once the bake has set.

These tools will help you create this easy and delightful dessert with minimal fuss.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake

1. Prepare Your Tray

   Line a square or rectangular tray with parchment paper or cling film. This will make it much easier to lift the finished bake out of the tray once it has set.

2. Crush The Biscuits

   Break the digestive biscuits into small pieces. You can do this by placing them in a sealed bag and bashing them with a rolling pin or simply breaking them with your hands.

3. Melt The Butter And Golden Syrup

   In a saucepan, melt the butter and golden syrup together over a low heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture is smooth and combined. Be careful not to let it boil.

4. Combine The Mixture

   Once the butter and syrup have melted, pour the mixture into your bowl with the crushed biscuits. Stir in the Maltesers, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout.

5. Transfer To The Tray

   Pour the biscuit and Malteser mixture into your lined tray. Use a spoon or your hands to press it down and flatten it into an even layer. This helps compact the mixture so it holds together when set.

6. Melt The Chocolate

   For the topping, melt the milk chocolate (and dark chocolate, if using) in the microwave or over a double boiler. Stir until it’s completely smooth.

7. Top The Tray Bake

   Pour the melted chocolate over the biscuit and Malteser base, spreading it out with a spatula to cover the surface evenly.

8. Chill And Set

   Place the tray in the fridge for at least an hour to allow the chocolate to harden and the tray bake to set properly.

9. Cut And Serve

   Once set, remove the tray bake from the fridge. Lift it out of the tray using the parchment paper or cling film. Cut it into squares or bars, and you’re ready to serve.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Customizing the Texture: If you prefer more crunch, add more Maltesers or break the biscuits into larger pieces. This will give a chunkier texture that’s extra satisfying when you bite into it.
• Experiment with Chocolate: While milk chocolate is the traditional topping, you can experiment with dark chocolate or even white chocolate for a twist. Dark chocolate will add a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet base, balancing the flavors beautifully.
• Add Other Ingredients: Feel free to add extras like mini marshmallows, raisins, or other dried fruit to enhance the flavor and texture of the tray bake.
• Don’t Skip the Chilling Time: Make sure you allow enough time for the tray bake to fully set in the fridge. If you cut it too early, it may crumble or be too soft to hold its shape.
• Using Alternative Biscuits: If you can’t find digestive biscuits, try using graham crackers or another type of plain, sweet biscuit. The flavor may change slightly, but it will still work well.

Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake is a wonderfully easy yet indulgent treat that’s perfect for a variety of occasions. With a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dessert that will wow guests or simply satisfy your own sweet tooth.

The combination of crunchy Maltesers, buttery biscuit base, and creamy chocolate topping creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this tray bake is a must-try, offering a sweet, no-fuss way to make a delicious treat that everyone will love.

Simple Twists On Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake Recipe

Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake is a wonderfully indulgent dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and crunch, thanks to the combination of chocolate, biscuits, and the iconic Maltesers. However, there are many ways to elevate or tweak this recipe to suit different preferences or dietary needs. Here are some simple, yet effective twists to make this beloved recipe your own:

1. Add More Malty Goodness

   While the classic recipe features Maltesers as a key ingredient, why not take it a step further and add in some Malteser spread or even Malteser-flavored syrup?

   These additions will amplify the malty taste, giving your tray bake an even richer flavor profile.

2. Include Dried Fruit

   If you’re craving a bit of tang to balance out the sweetness, dried fruit such as cranberries, raisins, or chopped apricots can make for an interesting contrast. Not only does this make the treat slightly more nutritious, but it also adds extra texture and bite.

3. Nutty Delight

   For a nuttier version, you could add crushed hazelnuts, almonds, or pistachios to the mix. The combination of the soft Maltesers and crunchy nuts provides a delightful contrast in texture. The nutty flavor also works harmoniously with the chocolate and biscuit base.

4. Go Darker with Chocolate

   If you prefer a more intense flavor, substitute the milk chocolate for dark chocolate. This slight change will balance out the sweetness of the Maltesers and make the tray bake more sophisticated. Dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the malty and biscuity elements of the bake.

5. Infuse with Coffee or Caramel

   A small amount of instant coffee granules dissolved in hot water, or a few tablespoons of caramel sauce, can add a lovely depth to the flavor. The richness of coffee or the buttery sweetness of caramel can give the tray bake an unexpected twist.

6. Vegan or Dairy-Free Version

   For those with dietary restrictions, you can swap out the milk chocolate for a dairy-free chocolate alternative and use vegan-friendly biscuits. Coconut oil can also replace butter, ensuring that you can still enjoy the treat without compromising on taste or texture.

7. Flavor the Biscuit Base

   The recipe typically uses digestive biscuits, but you can play with flavors here as well. Try ginger biscuits, speculoos cookies, or even cinnamon-flavored graham crackers. Each brings a unique flavor that will complement the chocolatey and malty layers beautifully.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake is incredibly moreish, but if you find yourself with some leftovers, you’ll want to ensure they stay fresh for as long as possible. Here’s how to properly store your tray bake so it stays delicious for days to come:

1. Cool Completely

   Before storing, make sure the tray bake has cooled down to room temperature. Placing warm tray bakes into containers can cause condensation, which leads to sogginess and a decline in quality.

2. Use an Airtight Container

   To keep the tray bake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This will prevent air from getting in and drying out the dessert. If the tray bake is large, you can cut it into individual squares and layer them in the container with parchment paper between each layer to avoid them sticking together.

3. Refrigeration

   If your kitchen is particularly warm, or if you live in a hot climate, you may want to store the tray bake in the fridge to help preserve its freshness. The chocolate and Maltesers will firm up slightly, but the dessert will still remain delicious. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.

4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

   If you have made a large batch and want to keep it for longer, freezing is a viable option. Wrap the tray bake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer.

   It can last up to 2-3 months. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for several hours before serving. However, freezing may slightly alter the texture, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh for optimal taste.

5. How Long Does It Last?

   Stored properly, the tray bake can last up to a week in the fridge. If kept at room temperature, it will stay fresh for 3-4 days, though its texture might soften quicker due to the heat. Always check for signs of spoilage (like an off smell or mold) before consuming any leftovers.

What To Eat With Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake?

While Nigella’s Malteser Tray Bake is a rich, indulgent treat on its own, you may want to pair it with something complementary to create a more balanced dessert experience. Here are some ideas for what to serve alongside:

1. Fresh Fruit

   The rich, chocolatey, and malty flavors of the tray bake can be beautifully complemented by fresh, juicy fruit. Strawberries, raspberries, or even tangy citrus fruits like oranges or lemon slices can add a refreshing contrast and cut through the sweetness.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

   Ice cream is a natural pairing with any chocolate-based dessert, and Nigella’s tray bake is no exception. A scoop of smooth, creamy vanilla ice cream will offer a cooling effect and a subtle contrast in texture, balancing out the richness of the tray bake.

3. Whipped Cream

   If you’re looking for something lighter to go with the tray bake, a dollop of freshly whipped cream can add a touch of airiness to the dense, sweet treat. For added flavor, you could whip in some vanilla extract or even a splash of liqueur, like Baileys or Amaretto.

4. Coffee or Hot Chocolate

   Pairing this dessert with a hot drink can elevate the indulgence. A rich espresso or a creamy hot chocolate would be the perfect drink to complement the flavors of the Malteser tray bake, making for an irresistible treat after a long day.

5. Caramel Sauce or Chocolate Sauce

   If you’re looking for something even more indulgent, a drizzle of warm caramel or chocolate sauce can take this dessert to the next level. These sweet sauces will amplify the richness and add an extra layer of decadence.

Conclusion

Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake is a wonderfully simple yet scrumptious dessert that has captured the hearts of many. Whether you choose to play with the recipe by adding extra flavors or keep it classic, the combination of crunchy biscuits, creamy chocolate, and Maltesers is hard to resist. The versatility of this treat allows it to be customized to suit different tastes, whether you’re a fan of dark chocolate, nuts, or caramel.

When it comes to storage, ensuring the tray bake is kept fresh requires some basic attention to detail. With the right storage methods, you can enjoy your tray bake for several days, and even freeze it for future enjoyment.

Lastly, don’t forget to consider the perfect pairing options. Whether you serve it with fresh fruit, ice cream, or a warm cup of coffee, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake?

To make Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients: 200g of milk chocolate, 100g of butter, 2 tablespoons of golden syrup, 250g of Maltesers, and 200g of digestive biscuits. These ingredients combine to create a no-bake treat that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

How Long Does It Take To Prepare Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake?

The preparation time for Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake is relatively quick. It typically takes about 15-20 minutes to assemble the ingredients, melt the chocolate and butter, and mix everything together. Afterward, it needs to chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until set, before you can cut it into squares and enjoy.

Can I Modify The Recipe To Make Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make Nigella Lawson’s Malteser Tray Bake gluten-free by swapping the digestive biscuits with a gluten-free alternative. Many brands offer gluten-free digestive biscuits, or you can use gluten-free graham crackers or any other crunchy biscuits that are gluten-free. Just be sure to double-check all ingredients for any hidden gluten.