Skip to content

back to Cakes, bakes and desserts

Gooseberry traybake

This juicy seasonal traybake is the perfect way to use up freshly picked gooseberries. From the tartness to the sweetness, this tasty bake will go down a treat at picnics, parties, or as a delicious afternoon snack with your favourite cuppa.

15 minutes prep. time
40 minutes cooking time
Serves 16–20
Cakes, bakes & desserts

Freshly baked gooseberry traybake with a few slices cut — Tuck into this juicy traybake that's packed full of gooseberries | © National Trust Images/ Rebecca Janaway

For the base

500g self-raising flour
500g light brown sugar
250g butter

For the topping

3 eggs
500g soured cream
250g fresh gooseberries, roughly chopped

Top tip

Using a combination of different coloured gooseberries adds a beautiful finish to this traybake.

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan/gas mark 3) and line a 30cm x 20cm deep-sided baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2

For the base

Mix the flour and sugar, and rub in the butter until you have a sandy texture. Spread half this mixture in the lined tray and press down gently until you have an even layer.

Step 3

For the topping

Add the soured cream and eggs to the remaining flour mix and stir until just combined and a only few lumps still remain.

Step 4

Pour this mixture over the base layer in the tin and spread evenly. Top with the chopped gooseberries, sprinkling evenly over the surface.

Step 5

Place in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set.

Step 6

Once cooked, remove from the oven and let the traybake cool completely before cutting.

In the background is a red napkin and white fairy light. In the foreground, a slice of vegan Christmas pudding on a white plate with a fork alongside, with brandy sauce being poured onto it from a white jug

Recipes

From tried and tested classic bakes to healthy dishes the whole family can enjoy, find inspiration for your next meal.

Recipes to make at home

Preparing fresh vegetables for the restaurant at Knightshayes Court, Tiverton, Devon

Food

We believe in sourcing sustainable food wherever possible and use local and seasonal produce in our cafés. Discover why this is important and have a go at some of our recipes at home.

A flourless chocolate hazelnut torte cake

Cakes, bakes and desserts

We love food and we've got some great recipes to prove it. Here are some of our favourite cakes, bakes and dessert recipes from our chefs and local experts.

Apple and rhubarb crumble with custard

Recipe

Recipe

Apple and rhubarb crumble

Give our recipe for a crowd-pleasing, crunchy-topped apple and rhubarb crumble a go.

Carrot cake topped with creamy frosting, sunflower seeds and walnuts

Recipe

Recipe

Carrot cake

Tuck into a slice of this classic carrot cake, spiced with cinnamon, topped with thick creamy frosting, crushed walnuts and seeds, and a sprinkle of carrot to finish.