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Mary Berry Tunis Cake Recipe

Mary Berry Tunis Cake
Print Recipe
Print Recipe

Mary Berry Tunis Cake is a traditional British sponge cake with a dense yet buttery crumb, finished with a smooth chocolate layer. It is often decorated with marzipan shapes or festive figures, making it a favourite Christmas cake alternative. The cake itself is light, made with eggs, butter, flour, and sugar, while the topping is a rich chocolate mixture poured over the cooled cake to set into a glossy finish. This iconic combination makes Tunis Cake both comforting and luxurious.

Ingredients

  • 175g unsalted butter, softened

  • 175g caster sugar

  • 3 large eggs

  • 175g self-raising flour

  • ½ teaspoon baking powder

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 tablespoons milk

  • Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Topping:

  • 200g dark chocolate, chopped

  • 100ml double cream

  • 25g butter

  • Optional: Marzipan decorations or festive shapes

Instructions

  • Prepare the tin – Line and grease an 8-inch round cake tin to prevent sticking.

  • Cream butter and sugar – Beat 175g butter with 175g sugar until pale, fluffy, and well aerated.

  • Incorporate the eggs – Add 3 eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

  • Add vanilla and milk – Stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 2 tbsp milk for extra softness.

  • Fold in dry ingredients – Gently mix 175g self-raising flour, ½ tsp baking powder, and a pinch of salt until just combined.

  • Bake the cake – Transfer the batter to the tin and bake at 170°C (340°F) for 45–50 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.

  • Cool completely – Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before moving it to a cooling rack.

  • Make the chocolate topping – Melt 200g chocolate, 100ml cream, and 25g butter together over low heat until shiny and smooth.

  • Pour and set – Spread the chocolate topping over the cooled cake, smoothing the surface. Let it set for at least 1 hour.

  • Decorate – Add marzipan shapes or festive decorations if desired.

Find it online: https://maryberrycooks.co.uk/mary-berry-tunis-cake/