Zeroing in on a quick and delicious meal solution that fits any schedule, these versatile tray bakes are perfect for busy weeknights. They’re incredibly easy to prepare and can be tailored to suit any occasion or preference. While the term ‘tray bake’ might evoke images of traditional sheet cakes popularized in Europe and Australia, its definition has evolved over time to encompass a broader range of recipes, including savory options like sheet pan dinners.
This expansion in scope makes tray bakes an even more appealing choice for home cooks, as they offer a convenient way to prepare meals with minimal fuss. And, as it happens, this curated list includes a delightful mix of both sweet and savory tray bake recipes. Take a look and see if you can guess which one is my personal favorite – hint: it’s a real showstopper!
Retro School Dinner Cake
People often associate old-fashioned cakes with nostalgic memories of their childhood. The moment you take a bite of this classic dessert, you’ll be transported back to your elementary school days, reminiscent of those fluffy, spongy cakes topped with a simple vanilla icing. Our recipe is designed to recreate that exact taste experience from the past. What’s more, its light and mildly sweet texture, combined with colorful sprinkles on top, makes it an ideal treat for both kids and adults.
Pairing it with thick custard adds an extra layer of flavor, elevating this classic dessert to a whole new level.
Shake and Bake Chicken
Looking back on nostalgic commercials from the 90s might bring memories of Shake and Bake advertisements flooding back. This delectable, crispy-crusted chicken dish shares a striking resemblance with that beloved classic. While it’s true that the original recipe wasn’t homemade, you won’t be using a boxed mix this time around. Instead, you’ll craft your own signature seasoning blend from scratch.
The addition of butter contributes to an unparalleled moisture level, while the combination of paprika and sage infuses an unmistakable depth of flavor. It’s undeniable that this dish will be a crowd-pleaser, regardless of who’s on the receiving end.
Traditional School Jam and Coconut Tray Bake
Sprinkled with nostalgia, this classic dessert is sure to bring back memories of school days past. The same light and airy sponge cake remains the base, but a twist is added by using raspberry jam and desiccated coconut as a substitute for traditional icing. The result is a sweet and tangy flavor combination that’s elevated by the hint of tropical sweetness from the coconut.
If you’re looking to impress your guests at your next big gathering, this delightful dessert is sure to be a hit with everyone.
Halloumi Tray Bake with Pesto Rice & Roasted Vegetables
Just like many of us, you’re probably always on the lookout for new recipe ideas that cater to your taste buds and dietary needs. If you’re craving flavorful, healthy meals, then this halloumi tray bake is definitely worth trying out. The combination of pesto rice and roasted vegetables is a game-changer, making it an excellent choice for a delicious and nutritious side dish. What’s more, the grilled halloumi cheese adds an extra layer of richness and texture that elevates the entire dish.
Best of all, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a busy weeknight meal – and the fact that it’s vegetarian-friendly only makes it more appealing.
Salmon & New Potatoes Tray Bake
Often considered a no-fuss option for those who struggle with cooking fish, tray bakes are an excellent choice. The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity – just throw all the ingredients on a single tray and pop it into the oven. Not only is this approach hard to get wrong, but it also allows you to bring out the natural flavors of each component without overcomplicating things.
In particular, the fish is infused with a burst of brightness from the added seasonings, while the potatoes provide a comforting earthy undertone that complements them perfectly, making for a truly unforgettable dinner experience.
Easy Carrot Cake Traybake
Gently combining a mix of grated carrots with chopped walnuts creates an incredibly moist texture in these sweetly spiced tray bakes. When paired with a generous dollop of cream cheese frosting, they become positively addictive. This recipe is undoubtedly one of the simplest methods for making carrot cake, and it’s surprising just how well it turns out given the minimal effort required. To add a touch of whimsy to your finished tray bake, simply place a few marzipan carrots on top – voila!
Your beautifully decorated dessert is now ready to be devoured.
Salmon, Potato, and Broccoli Traybake with Wholegrain Mustard
Keen to whip up a quick and nutritious meal, this salmon, potato, and broccoli tray bake is an excellent choice for busy weeknights. By cooking all the ingredients together on one tray, you’ll not only save time on cleanup but also ensure that everything is cooked evenly. The flavors are elevated by a simple yet effective mixture of olive oil, wholegrain mustard, salt, and pepper, which will surely become a favorite in your household.
Easy Thai Chicken Traybake
Often considered a quick and easy meal option, this tray bake packs a punch when it comes to nutritional value. With high levels of protein and vitamins A and C, as well as a decent amount of fiber, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
Sheet Pan Pancakes (Oven-baked Pancakes)
People often overlook the versatility of their oven when it comes to cooking breakfast. Making pancakes in the oven can be a game-changer for busy households. Unlike traditional stovetop methods that require constant attention, baking pancakes in the oven allows you to multitask and attend to other tasks while your meal cooks.
Furthermore, using the oven yields lighter and fluffier pancakes, making it an ideal solution for families who crave a delicious breakfast without the hassle of standing over the stove.
Cinnamon Coconut Chocolate Crunch
Taking a bite of these rich, chocolatey, and nutty treats is an instant pleasure. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring only 35 minutes of preparation time. The combination of decadent chocolate and cinnamon flavors is nothing short of perfection. The texture is also exceptional, adding another layer of enjoyment to each bite. In fact, every aspect of these bars is truly excellent, making them a standout dessert option.
But let’s be honest – they’re spectacular, and their irresistible taste will likely leave you craving more than one.
Biscoff Cake Traybake
Beneath its layers of golden-brown frosting and delicate crumbs lies a world of comfort food heaven. The warm, buttery aroma wafts through the air with each delicious bite, transporting you to a place where worries fade away. Every mouthful is infused with the deep sweetness of brown sugar and the satisfying crunch of Biscoff cookies, creating an irresistible flavor combination that leaves you wanting more.
Fish Pie with Mashed Potato Topping
Breaking away from traditional Lenten recipes, this creamy fish dish is an excellent choice for the period. Based on its classic British origins, it’s likely to become a staple in your household. A key factor contributing to its comfort food status is the presence of mashed potatoes, which not only provide a soothing texture but also serve as an excellent topping for the fish pie.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is that even when you don’t have any leftovers, they can be easily transformed into mouthwatering fish cakes, making it a versatile option for another delicious meal.
Honey Soy Mustard Chicken Tray Bake
Combining sweet and savory flavors, this one-pot meal is not only a delicious option but also a nutritious and satisfying meat-and-potatoes dinner. The chicken is cooked to perfection with crispy, flavorful skin that complements the dish nicely. Alongside the tender roasted potatoes, which make for a fantastic pairing, you can add an Asian-inspired touch by sprinkling sesame seeds on top, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Cajun Chicken, Potato & Kale Traybake
Taking inspiration from classic salads, this chicken dinner recipe adds a twist by incorporating a blend of savory spices that will leave your taste buds tingling. The addition of Cajun seasoning gives it an extra kick, elevating the dish to a new level of flavor and comfort. It’s a unique combination that works surprisingly well, making it perfect for those looking to spice up their mealtime routine without sacrificing warmth and coziness.
Tuscan Sheet Pan Chicken with Potatoes and Kale
Packed with nutrients and flavor, this tray bake is inspired by classic Tuscan cuisine. It features chicken and kale as its main ingredients, which are roasted to perfection alongside thinly sliced potatoes in just six easy steps. To prepare the dish, you’ll need to season the chicken thighs, potatoes, and kale with a blend of garlic, thyme, and olive oil, adding an aromatic depth to each component.
The result is a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights or any occasion where a hearty, comforting dish is needed. Serve it straight from the oven and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Raspberry and White Chocolate Traybake
Just when you think a cake can’t be any more decadent, along comes this springy, spongy masterpiece that defies expectations. With its rich, sweet, fruity, and tangy flavors melded together in perfect harmony, it’s almost too good to believe. But don’t just take our word for it – the juicy raspberries and creamy white chocolate are baked right into the dough, ensuring that every bite is a flavor explosion waiting to happen.
Whether you’re looking to mix things up or simply want an exceptional dessert option, this cake delivers in spades.
Sausage, Tomato, and Bean Traybake
Zest up your kitchen with this mouth-watering European-inspired dish. This sausage, tomato, and bean tray bake is the perfect comfort food for a chilly winter’s night, combining simplicity with rich flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied.With its harmonious blend of tastes and textures, it’s an ideal choice for a cozy evening in, as well as being incredibly easy to prepare.And, as if all that wasn’t enough, this tray bake is a one-pan wonder, making the clean-up process a breeze!
Banana Bread Traybake/Banoffee Traybake Cake
Simply put, this recipe surpasses traditional banana bread in every way. Its unparalleled moisture level is matched only by the indulgent sweetness of the caramel frosting, which is sure to leave you craving more. This classic dessert has been a staple in my household for years, and while it’s always been well-received, the unique combination of ripe bananas and gooey toffee elevates it to new heights, making it a guaranteed hit with even the most discerning palates.
Chocolate Brownies
Zest up your baking game with this exceptional brownie recipe that will redefine the way you think about tray bakes. The result is a dense and rich dessert that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate craving, boasting an unparalleled fudginess and thickness that’s simply divine. When served with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream and drizzled with a velvety chocolate sauce, it transcends into a heavenly treat that will leave you wanting more.
But the possibilities don’t stop there – these brownies can be easily transformed into a milkshake or yogurt topper, or enjoyed solo as a decadent indulgence. Whatever your pleasure, be warned: once you taste these browines, every other recipe may seem bland in comparison.
Millionaires Shortbread
Very few treats are as delightful and indulgent as millionaire’s shortbread, but that’s not to say it has to break the bank. The combination of buttery shortbread, chewy caramel, and rich chocolate creates a flavor profile that is sure to please even the most discerning palate. And let’s be honest – who can resist the allure of these triple-layer squares? Their golden brown color and perfectly crisscrossed top layer make them almost too pretty to eat!
But don’t worry, we know you won’t be able to resist their charms for long. In fact, everyone from kids to adults will love sinking their teeth into one (or two) of these sweet treats.
Plum and Almond Traybake
Renowned food enthusiasts will adore this dessert recipe, which expertly combines the sweetness of plums with the crunch of almonds. The resulting flavor profile is a masterful balance of tart and sweet notes that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Its visually stunning presentation also ensures it’s sure to be the crowning glory at your next dinner party or social gathering.
Serving it alongside a warm cup of tea is a thoughtful touch, guaranteeing a memorable experience for your guests. And the best part? This show-stopping dessert is surprisingly easy to prepare, so you can impress without exerting too much effort.
Cinnamon Roll Cake
Are you tired of missing out on the sweet taste of freshly baked cinnamon rolls because you don’t have the time or effort to make them from scratch? Worry no more! This innovative cinnamon roll cake is the perfect solution, offering all the flavor and delight of traditional cinnamon rolls without the hassle. It boasts an identical sweetness and a deep, warm cinnamon flavor that will transport your taste buds back to the cozy atmosphere of a bakery.
And, let’s not forget about the indulgent, sticky glaze on top – it’s the icing on the cake! But what truly sets this cake apart is its ease of preparation; it’s quicker than a trip to the bakery and almost as effortless as ordering takeout.
Sticky Toffee Pudding Traybake
Vying for dessert supremacy, Americans might have their apple pie and ice cream, while the Brits proudly claim sticky toffee pudding as their own. And in a confession that may raise some eyebrows, I’d unapologetically choose sticky tooffee pudding over its American counterpart every day of the week! This heavenly dessert is an intriguing fusion of cake and pudding, boasting an intensely rich flavor profile.
Best savored warm, it pairs beautifully with authentic British custard or a scoop of ice cream, if you prefer. For those new to this sweet treat, this tray bake recipe serves as an excellent introduction – easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious. So, what’s holding you back? Give this delightful dessert a try today!
Gingerbread Traybake Cake
Often, people seek out desserts that embody the spirit of the season, and this gingerbread tray bake cake does just that. With its rich, moist texture and perfect balance of spices, it’s a true showstopper. The combination of sticky, spongy layers with a spiced buttercream frosting is nothing short of spectacular. To take it to the next level, simply add some festive flair by decorating it with gingerbread men and a pinch of extra winter spices – the result is sure to be a hit at any gathering!
And don’t worry if everyone wants seconds (and thirds, and fourths…), because this cake is so good that you’ll want to make extra ahead of time anyway.
Malteser Slice Traybake
Gathering inspiration from classic British treats, a tray bake made with Maltesers is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. This simple recipe yields a mouth-watering slice that’s ideal for snacking or serving at gatherings – though you might not want to share it, given its irresistible charm 😉. For those who are new to the world of Maltesers, they’re essentially a UK equivalent of Whoppers, imparting a rich combination of chocolate and malted milk flavors in this delightful dessert.
Mary Berry’s Lemon Drizzle Cake (Tray Bake)
Brighten up your summer with Mary Berry’s delightful Lemon Drizzle Cake, a perfect blend of citrusy freshness and sweet indulgence. Its light sweetness is expertly balanced by the bold, zesty kick from the lemon zest, creating a truly unique flavor profile that’s sure to tantalize the taste buds. The cake itself is remarkably moist and airy, while the icing adds a delightful textural contrast with its crunchy edges.
This tray bake is an expert combination of sweet, tart, soft, and crunchy elements, making it a standout dessert for warm weather gatherings or everyday indulgence.
Dorset Apple Cake (Traybake)
Underpinning the essence of autumn is nothing quite like the combination of apples and cinnamon. There’s something undeniably special about these two flavors that evokes a sense of warmth and coziness. This buttery cake is a masterclass in capturing the essence of the season, with its rich, comforting aroma wafting through the air. As you take a bite, the flavors transport you to a crisp fall day, surrounded by the vibrant hues of changing leaves.
To fully immerse yourself in the experience, pair this cake with a steaming glass of apple cider or, for a more adult twist, try a spiced apple toddy – either way, it’s sure to be a treat.
Chocolate Fudge Cake Traybake
Floating above the realm of ordinary cakes, this decadent, fudgy treat is a chocoholic’s ultimate paradise. The moment you sink your teeth into its rich, dark chocolate goodness is akin to biting into a velvety cloud that simply dissolves in your mouth. Its unapologetic softness and the indulgent, thick icing create an unbeatable combination that will leave even the most discerning palates singing in delight. Not only does it appear stunning, but its taste far surpasses its visual appeal.
And the best part? This heavenly dessert is surprisingly easy to prepare. With a mere 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 30-minute baking period, you’ll be indulging in this chocolatey bliss before you know it. Give it a try the next time you crave a intense chocolate fix that will leave you weak in the knees.
Pineapple and Coconut Traybake
Savoring the sweetness of summer just got easier with this incredible tropical tray bake recipe. With only seven essential ingredients and a preparation time of approximately 45 minutes, this mouthwatering dessert is perfect for hot days by the ocean. Each delicious bite transports you to a sunny beach paradise, where the warmth of the coconut and the juiciness of the fruits come together in perfect harmony.
Pumpkin Traybake Cake
Elevate your Halloween celebrations with a delightful treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious: our pumpkin tray bake cake. This scrumptious dessert boasts a perfect balance of pumpkiny flavor and spicy undertones, making it an ideal canvas for your creative decorating skills. Whether you choose to adorn it with the adorable little pumpkins from Brach’s Autumn Mix or get fanciful with sprinkles, icing, or candy corn, this cake is sure to be a hit at any fall gathering.
30 Best Tray Bakes Your Family Will Love
Renowned for their ease of preparation and delightful flavors, these tray bakes offer the ultimate solution for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether it’s a Tuesday evening or a weekend gathering, they’re perfectly suited to meet your culinary needs.
Instructions
Carefully selecting your favorite recipe is just the first step towards creating a mouthwatering dish. Once you’ve made this crucial decision, gather all the necessary ingredients and have them at your fingertips. With these steps taken care of, you can then focus on preparing your delicious tray bake recipe in 30 minutes or less, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want to satisfy their cravings without sacrificing too much time.
