Traybake desserts are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without leaving a mountain of dishes in the sink. Perfect for those who love baking but hate the cleanup, these one-pan wonders are both delicious and efficient. Here are seven traybake desserts that deliver on taste while keeping the washing up to a minimum.
Classic Chocolate Brownie Traybake
Few desserts can compete with the classic chocolate brownie. This traybake version keeps the preparation simple without sacrificing flavor. To start, melt butter and dark chocolate together, then mix in sugar, eggs, and flour. Bake until the top is set with a slight crackle, and the interior remains delightfully gooey. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
The beauty of this classic is its versatility; add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added texture and flavor. Brownies are perfect for gatherings or just satisfying a midweek craving. Plus, with just one pan to clean, you can spend more time enjoying your creation.
Zesty Lemon Drizzle Traybake
This zesty lemon drizzle traybake is as refreshing as it is simple. Start with a basic sponge mixture, infused with fresh lemon zest and juice. Once baked, poke holes in the cake and pour over a tangy lemon glaze, allowing it to seep into the sponge. This step ensures a moist and flavorful dessert that bursts with citrusy goodness.
Perfect for afternoon tea or as a light dessert, the lemon drizzle traybake pairs beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey or your favorite herbal brew. Its bright flavor and minimal cleanup make it an ideal choice for spring and summer gatherings.
Gooey Salted Caramel Blondie Traybake
For those who prefer something a bit different, the salted caramel blondie traybake offers a sweet and salty twist. Start by making a blondie base with brown sugar, butter, and vanilla. Swirl in a generous helping of salted caramel sauce before baking to golden perfection. The result is a chewy, buttery treat with pockets of gooey caramel.
This dessert is a hit at any party, offering a luxurious flavor profile that feels indulgent but is simple to create. The balance of sweetness and salt makes it hard to stop at just one piece, and the single pan means less time cleaning and more time enjoying.
Fruity Berry Crumble Traybake
If you love fruit desserts, the berry crumble traybake is a must-try. Layer your choice of berries—such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries—in the tray, sprinkle with sugar, and top with a buttery crumble. Bake until the fruit bubbles and the topping is crispy and golden.
This dessert celebrates the natural sweetness of berries and offers a delightful contrast with its crunchy topping. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for added indulgence. The berry crumble traybake is a wonderful way to use seasonal fruits and is as easy on the eyes as it is on the palate.
Rich Coffee Walnut Traybake
Coffee and walnut is a classic combination that shines in this rich traybake. Start with a coffee-infused sponge, studded with crunchy walnuts. Once baked, a coffee glaze or buttercream can be added for extra richness and flavor. The result is a robust and aromatic dessert that coffee lovers will adore.
This traybake is perfect for a morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up. Its deep flavors pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, making it a favorite among adults. Easy to slice and serve, this dessert is ideal for sharing with friends and family over a casual get-together.
Decadent Peanut Butter Swirl Traybake
Peanut butter fans will appreciate the simplicity and taste of this decadent traybake. A basic vanilla or chocolate batter is enhanced by generous swirls of creamy peanut butter before baking. The result is a moist cake with pockets of rich, nutty flavor in every bite.
This dessert is a hit with kids and adults alike, offering a comforting blend of flavors. It’s a great option for potlucks or picnics, where its easy serving style can be fully appreciated. Best of all, the cleanup is a breeze, allowing you more time to relax and enjoy.
Spiced Apple Cinnamon Traybake
The spiced apple cinnamon traybake is like autumn in a pan. Combine chunks of apple with a spiced batter featuring cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Bake until the apples are tender and the cake is fragrant and golden. This dessert is warm, comforting, and perfect for cooler weather.
Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an added touch of indulgence. Its cozy flavors make it a wonderful addition to any fall menu or holiday table, and its one-pan preparation ensures stress-free baking and minimal cleanup.
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
