Old School Chocolate Traybake Cake -

Introduction to Old School Chocolate Traybake Cake

The Old School Chocolate Traybake Cake is a nostalgic treat that instantly transports many back to their school days in the UK. This simple yet indulgent sponge cake, often topped with a rich chocolate icing and a sprinkle of hundreds and thousands, was a staple in school canteens. Served in square slices on plastic trays, it became a comforting and familiar dessert that children eagerly looked forward to after lunch.

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But what makes this cake so special? Its soft, airy texture, combined with a sweet, chocolatey topping, delivers a perfect balance of flavor and nostalgia. Unlike modern, elaborate desserts, the Old School Chocolate Traybake Cake embraces simplicity—both in ingredients and preparation—making it a timeless favorite.

Even today, this beloved traybake remains a cherished classic, with many home bakers recreating it to relive childhood memories or introduce a new generation to its magic. Its connection to nostalgia, easy-to-make nature, and irresistible taste keep it relevant in kitchens across the UK. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a birthday treat, this chocolate traybake continues to bring joy—just like it did in school canteens decades ago.

The Unique Appeal of Chocolate Traybake Cake

The Old School Chocolate Traybake Cake holds a special place in the world of homemade bakes, thanks to its simple yet indulgent chocolate flavor. Unlike rich, multi-layered cakes, this traybake delivers all the chocolatey goodness in an easy-to-make, single-layer format. The combination of a light and fluffy sponge with a smooth, glossy chocolate icing creates a treat that’s both comforting and satisfying without being overly heavy. The nostalgic touch of colorful sprinkles adds a fun, playful element that makes it especially appealing.

One of the greatest strengths of this cake is its suitability for large gatherings and school bake sales. Baked in a single rectangular tray, it can be easily sliced into equal portions, making it a perfect choice for sharing. Whether for birthday parties, office treats, or family get-togethers, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum enjoyment.

Compared to elaborate layered cakes that demand precise stacking, filling, and decoration, the Chocolate Traybake Cake is refreshingly simple to prepare. With basic ingredients and a straightforward method, it’s accessible even for beginner bakers. There’s no need to worry about intricate frosting techniques or time-consuming decorations—just spread the chocolate icing over the sponge, add a sprinkle of decorations, and it’s ready to serve.

For those who love homemade bakes but prefer an easy, no-fuss approach, this classic traybake remains an unbeatable choice. Its delicious taste, convenience, and nostalgic charm make it a must-have in every baker’s repertoire.

Traditional Old School Chocolate Traybake Recipe

If you’re looking to recreate the classic Old School Chocolate Traybake Cake, this easy and delicious recipe will bring back all the nostalgic flavors of school canteen desserts. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for any home baker.

Ingredients List

For the Sponge Cake:

225g unsalted butter (softened)
225g caster sugar
4 large eggs
200g self-raising flour
25g cocoa powder
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 tbsp milk

For the Chocolate Icing:

200g icing sugar
25g cocoa powder
3–4 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
50g unsalted butter (melted)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Sprinkles (hundreds and thousands) for decoration

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Tin
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas Mark 4.
- Grease and line a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) rectangular baking tin with parchment paper.
Make the Sponge Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift in the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Fold gently to combine.
- Stir in vanilla extract and milk until you get a smooth, soft batter.
Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Baking and Cooling Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to keep the sponge light and fluffy.
Even Baking: Rotate the tray halfway through baking for an even rise.
Cooling Before Icing: Always let the cake cool completely before applying icing to prevent it from melting.

Once cooled, spread the chocolate icing over the cake, sprinkle generously with hundreds and thousands, and let it set before slicing. Enjoy this old-school classic just like you remember from school canteens!

Classic Toppings and Variations

One of the defining features of the Old School Chocolate Traybake Cake is its chocolate icing and sprinkles—a simple yet nostalgic topping that instantly evokes memories of school canteens. The traditional icing is made with icing sugar, cocoa powder, butter, and milk, creating a smooth and glossy finish. A generous sprinkle of hundreds and thousands or rainbow sprinkles completes the look, adding a playful and colorful touch that makes this cake instantly recognizable.

Ganache vs. Buttercream: Which One to Choose?

For those who want a slightly richer variation, chocolate ganache is an excellent alternative. Made from melted chocolate and cream, ganache creates a silky, luxurious topping that adds an indulgent touch to the simple traybake. It’s perfect for special occasions when you want a more refined finish.

On the other hand, chocolate buttercream provides a creamier, more decadent option. Made with butter, icing sugar, cocoa powder, and a splash of milk, buttercream adds a light and fluffy texture that complements the sponge beautifully. While less traditional, it’s a great choice for those who enjoy a softer, melt-in-the-mouth topping.

Alternative Flavors for a Unique Twist

For a modern spin on this classic cake, consider adding different flavors to the chocolate base or icing:

Caramel Chocolate: Drizzle salted caramel over the icing for a sweet and salty contrast.
Mint Chocolate: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the icing for a refreshing twist.
Orange-Infused Chocolate: Incorporate zested orange peel or a splash of orange extract into the batter for a citrusy depth.

Whether you stick to the classic school-style toppings or experiment with richer textures and flavors, the Old School Chocolate Traybake Cake remains a versatile and timeless favorite.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

Best Ways to Serve

The Old School Chocolate Traybake Cake is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniment can elevate the experience:

With Custard: The classic school-style way! Warm a slice and pour over hot vanilla custard for the ultimate nostalgic treat.
With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or salted caramel ice cream adds a delightful contrast of textures, balancing the rich chocolate flavor.
With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up—the sweetness of the cake pairs beautifully with a strong brew.

How to Store for Freshness

To keep your traybake soft and moist:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
If your kitchen is warm, you can refrigerate it, but allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
If using buttercream or ganache, refrigeration helps maintain structure but may slightly firm up the sponge.

Can You Freeze a Chocolate Traybake?

Yes! This traybake freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for batch baking:

Freeze the whole traybake or slice it into portions before freezing.
Wrap tightly in cling film and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Store for up to 3 months.
To thaw, leave at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

For best results, freeze without icing and add fresh toppings after defrosting to maintain the best texture and appearance.

FAQs

What makes an old school chocolate traybake different from a regular chocolate cake?

An old school chocolate traybake is a simple, single-layer sponge cake traditionally served in UK school canteens. Unlike layered cakes, it’s baked in a rectangular tray and topped with a thin layer of chocolate icing and sprinkles. It has a light, fluffy texture and a nostalgic charm that sets it apart from richer, multi-layered chocolate cakes.

Can I make this cake without eggs?

Yes! You can replace eggs with yogurt (¼ cup per egg), mashed banana (½ banana per egg), or applesauce (¼ cup per egg). Using baking soda and vinegar (1 tsp baking soda + 1 tbsp vinegar per egg) also helps maintain fluffiness.

How do I get a moist chocolate traybake?

To keep your traybake soft and moist, use room-temperature butter, don’t overmix the batter, and avoid overbaking. Adding a splash of milk or buttermilk helps maintain moisture. Storing it in an airtight container also prevents drying out.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, but it requires adjustments. Melt 100g of dark chocolate and reduce butter slightly to balance the moisture. Cocoa powder is easier for a light, spongy texture, while melted chocolate makes it denser and richer.

How long does a chocolate traybake last?

Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for 4 days at room temperature or a week in the fridge. It also freezes well for up to 3 months!

Conclusion

The Old School Chocolate Traybake Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a nostalgic treat that brings back fond memories of school canteens and simple childhood pleasures. Its soft sponge, rich chocolate icing, and colorful sprinkles make it an easy yet indulgent bake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re recreating childhood favorites or introducing a new generation to its charm, this cake is a timeless classic that never fails to impress.

Beyond the traditional version, there are endless ways to experiment—try a buttercream or ganache topping, infuse flavors like orange or mint, or even drizzle with salted caramel for a modern twist. The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity and versatility.

So, whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just for yourself, this classic traybake is always worth making. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!