Mary Berry’s Malteser Tray Bake – A Classic No-Bake Chocolate Delight

If you’re craving something sweet, crunchy, and completely irresistible, Mary Berry’s Malteser Tray Bake is the perfect treat. This British classic is a no-bake wonder that combines buttery biscuit crumbs, melted chocolate, and crunchy Maltesers for a deliciously nostalgic dessert. I tried making this version with a mix of milk and dark chocolate, and it gave the tray bake a perfect balance of sweetness and richness. Whether you’re preparing for a party, bake sale, or just a cozy afternoon treat, this recipe is incredibly easy to make and always a crowd favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mary Berry’s Malteser Tray Bake is the ultimate no-fuss dessert—quick to prepare, completely delicious, and perfect for sharing. It doesn’t require any baking, just a few simple ingredients and a bit of melting and mixing. The combination of smooth melted chocolate, crunchy Maltesers, and crumbly biscuits creates a texture that’s both creamy and crisp. It’s a versatile recipe too—you can cut it into bars for snacking or squares for a dainty afternoon tea treat. Best of all, it stores beautifully in the fridge, making it a convenient make-ahead dessert.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Digestive Biscuits: These form the base of the tray bake, adding a lovely crumbly texture. You can also use graham crackers if you’re outside the UK.

Maltesers: The star of the show—these chocolate-covered malt balls add crunch and sweetness in every bite.

Butter: Adds richness and helps bind the biscuit mixture together.

Golden Syrup: Gives a chewy texture and subtle caramel sweetness that enhances the chocolate flavor.

Milk Chocolate: Used in the base and topping for a creamy, smooth texture.

Dark Chocolate (optional): Balances the sweetness of the milk chocolate and adds depth of flavor.

Cocoa Powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and gives the base a rich color.

Vanilla Extract (optional): Enhances the overall flavor and aroma.

Directions

Grease and line a square or rectangular baking tin with parchment paper.

Place the biscuits in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you have a mix of fine crumbs and small chunks—this texture gives the tray bake its signature bite.

In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter, golden syrup, and cocoa powder together, stirring until smooth and glossy. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract (if using). Add the crushed biscuits and half of the Maltesers, mixing well to coat everything evenly.

Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and press it down firmly with the back of a spoon or spatula to create an even layer.

For the topping, melt the milk chocolate (and dark chocolate, if using) in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir until smooth, then pour over the biscuit base and spread evenly. Scatter the remaining Maltesers on top, lightly pressing them into the melted chocolate.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate has set completely. Once firm, cut into bars or squares using a sharp knife. For a clean cut, dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry between slices.

Essential Equipment :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 squares.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Perfect for serving 8–10 people as a sweet treat or dessert.

Storage/reheating

Store the Malteser tray bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For a softer texture, let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months—wrap individual squares in parchment and thaw in the fridge overnight.

Variations and Customizations

White Chocolate Twist: Replace the milk chocolate topping with melted white chocolate for a lighter, sweeter version.

Peanut Butter Swirl: Add a drizzle of peanut butter to the melted chocolate topping for a nutty flavor.

Caramel Crunch: Mix in crushed honeycomb or toffee pieces for added texture.

Nutty Delight: Stir in chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans for a richer, crunchier bite.

Mint Chocolate Version: Add a drop of peppermint extract and use mint-flavored chocolate for a refreshing twist.

Double Chocolate Layer: Use both milk and dark chocolate layers on top for a dramatic, marbled finish.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free biscuits for digestives.

Festive Edition: Add crushed candy canes or colored sprinkles for a holiday-inspired tray bake.

Salted Caramel Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of salted caramel over the chocolate before chilling.

Coffee Kick: Mix a teaspoon of instant coffee into the melted butter mixture for a mocha flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use graham crackers instead of digestives?

Yes, graham crackers work perfectly as a substitute.

2. Do I need to bake this dessert?

No, it’s a no-bake recipe—just melt, mix, and chill.

3. Can I make this tray bake ahead of time?

Absolutely, it’s ideal for making a day in advance.

4. What’s the best way to melt the chocolate?

Use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.

5. Can I use other chocolates?

Yes, try white or dark chocolate for variety.

6. How do I keep the base from crumbling?

Press it down firmly in the tin before chilling.

7. Can I add more Maltesers?

Of course! The more, the merrier for extra crunch.

8. How long should it chill?

At least 2 hours, or until completely firm.

9. Can I freeze the tray bake?

Yes, freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before serving.

10. What’s the best way to cut it cleanly?

Dip a sharp knife in hot water, wipe it dry, and slice.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Malteser Tray Bake is the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence—rich, crunchy, and full of chocolatey goodness. With just a handful of ingredients and no baking required, it’s an easy treat that delivers big on flavor. Whether you’re making it for a bake sale, afternoon tea, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this tray bake never disappoints. Every bite has that perfect mix of creamy chocolate, crunchy biscuits, and those iconic Maltesers—truly a timeless treat you’ll want to make again and again.