There’s something so heartwarming about old-fashioned bakes—and Mary Berry’s Manor House Cake is one of those treasured recipes that brings comfort with every bite. Soft, buttery, and just sweet enough, it’s a cake that makes you think of cozy kitchens, golden afternoons, and cherished family gatherings. This timeless British bake is filled with sultanas and a hint of orange, topped with a sprinkle of crunchy demerara sugar. Whether you’re new to baking or simply love a classic, this is one to bookmark.
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Why You’ll Love This Manor House Cake
This manor house cake is simplicity at its finest, with a beautifully golden crust, a moist crumb, and delightful bursts of sultana sweetness in every bite. The optional orange zest and marmalade add a subtle citrus lift that feels fancy without the fuss.
- Taste: Buttery and lightly sweet with a crisp sugary top
- Texture: Moist inside, crunchy top thanks to the demerara sugar
- Smell: Like a warm kitchen in winter—comforting and nostalgic
- Perfect for: Tea time, brunch, or a giftable loaf for neighbors
You only need a handful of pantry staples—plus, it’s versatile and travels well!
Ingredients List For Manor House Cake
- 250g self-raising flour (2 cups)
- 150g butter or margarine, diced (about ⅔ cup)
- 125g caster sugar (½ cup)
- 2 large eggs, whisked with 1 tablespoon of milk (2 eggs + 1 tbsp milk)
- 100g sultanas (¾ cup)
- 2 tablespoons orange marmalade (optional)
- Finely grated zest from 1 Seville orange (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Demerara sugar (for topping)
Necessary Tools for Preparation
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or electric mixer
- Loaf tin (preferably 2 lb / 900g)
- Baking parchment or non-stick spray
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F. Line a 2lb loaf tin with parchment or grease it well. - Rub Butter into Flour
In a large mixing bowl, rub the butter or margarine into the self-raising flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. - Add Sugar & Sultanas
Stir in the caster sugar and sultanas. If using, mix in the orange zest for a zingy touch. - Mix Wet Ingredients
Beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon of milk and pour into the flour mixture. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix! - Optional Marmalade Swirl
Fold in the marmalade for extra flavor depth and a hint of stickiness. - Spoon & Sprinkle
Spoon the batter into your prepared tin and level the top. Sprinkle with demerara sugar. - Bake
Bake for 1 hour or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If it’s browning too fast, cover with foil after 40 minutes. - Cool & Serve
Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfecting the Manor House Cake Recipe
- Don’t skip the demerara sugar topping! It gives a beautiful crunch.
- If your sultanas are dry, soak them in warm water for 15 minutes beforehand.
- Add chopped nuts or swap sultanas for dried cranberries or cherries for variation.
- Want a richer flavor? Use orange zest and marmalade for a zesty twist.
What to Serve With It
Pair with a cup of Earl Grey, English Breakfast tea, or even a warm mug of spiced chai. Add a dollop of clotted cream or a swipe of butter for a touch of indulgence.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp and refresh in a low oven for 5–10 minutes.
General Information
This recipe is great for holidays, afternoon teas, or just a cozy weekend bake. It’s nut-free and easily adaptable for vegetarian diets. Perfect for beginner bakers or anyone who loves a no-fuss British classic.
FAQ
Can I use raisins instead of sultanas?
Yes! Raisins or even chopped dried apricots work well.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free margarine and plant-based milk alternative.
What if I don’t have marmalade?
You can skip it, or substitute with a spoonful of apricot jam for a similar vibe.
Can I make this in a round tin?
Yes, a deep 20cm (8-inch) round tin works—just check the baking time a bit earlier.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Manor House Cake is more than just a recipe—it’s a cozy, feel-good slice of tradition. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, it’s sure to bring smiles. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out!
📌 Pin this recipe and tag @poulefrecipe on Pinterest when you bake it!
Looking for more comfort bakes? Try these:
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Mary Berry’s Classic Manor House Cake Recipe 🍰
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (10 slices) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A traditional British loaf cake filled with sultanas and a touch of citrus, topped with crunchy sugar. Perfect for tea time or weekend baking.
Ingredients
250g self-raising flour
150g butter or margarine
125g caster sugar
2 large eggs
1 tbsp milk
100g sultanas
2 tbsp orange marmalade (optional)
Zest of 1 Seville orange (optional)
2 tbsp Demerara sugar
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a loaf tin.
-
Rub flour and butter together into breadcrumbs.
-
Stir in sugar, sultanas, zest, and marmalade.
-
Add whisked eggs and milk, stir until combined.
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Spoon into tin, sprinkle Demerara sugar.
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Bake for 1 hour or until a skewer comes out clean.
-
Cool in tin 10 minutes, then on a rack.
Notes
Use cold butter for best texture. Optional zest and marmalade boost flavor. Swap sultanas for raisins or cranberries.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Cakes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
