If you’re a fan of Maltesers—the classic malted milk balls coated in chocolate—then you’re in for a treat with this Maltesers Loaf Cake. Combining the rich flavors of chocolate and malt, this cake is moist, indulgent, and topped with a decadent Malteser-infused glaze. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply treating yourself, this cake is the perfect way to enjoy your favorite candy in a whole new form.
In this guide, we’ll break down how to bake the perfect Maltesers Loaf Cake, from creating a moist chocolate base to crafting the ultimate topping that showcases the beloved Maltesers candy.
The Inspiration Behind Maltesers Loaf Cake
Maltesers have been a favorite chocolate treat since they were first introduced in the 1930s. Known for their crunchy malt centers and smooth chocolate coating, they provide the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. This loaf cake takes those flavors and elevates them, infusing the moist chocolate cake with a malty richness, all while incorporating the crunch of Maltesers in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this decadent Maltesers Loaf Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients. The cake itself is rich with chocolate and malt, while the glaze and toppings bring the distinctive Maltesers flavor to life.
For the Cake:
- Butter: 175g, softened
- Caster Sugar: 175g
- Eggs: 3 large
- Self-Raising Flour: 175g
- Cocoa Powder: 2 tbsp
- Malted Milk Powder: 3 tbsp (you can use Horlicks or Ovaltine)
- Baking Powder: 1 tsp
- Whole Milk: 2 tbsp
- Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp
For the Maltesers Glaze:
- Icing Sugar: 100g
- Cocoa Powder: 1 tbsp
- Malted Milk Powder: 2 tbsp
- Milk: 2-3 tbsp (enough to create a pourable consistency)
- Maltesers: Roughly crushed for sprinkling on top (about 100g)
Optional Decoration:
- Whole Maltesers: For extra crunch and decoration, you can use whole Maltesers as a finishing touch.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Maltesers Loaf Cake
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and greasing a loaf tin (about 2lb size). Line it with baking parchment for easy removal later on. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature so it mixes easily with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer, or a bit longer by hand. Properly creaming these ingredients is crucial for creating a light and airy cake texture.
Step 3: Adding the Eggs
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
Step 4: Mixing in the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, cocoa powder, malted milk powder, and baking powder. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the whole milk and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
Step 5: Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf tin and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should rise beautifully, with a slight dome forming on top.
Pro Tip: If the top of the cake is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
Step 6: Cooling the Cake
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then carefully remove it and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is important to ensure that the glaze will set properly when applied.
Creating the Maltesers Glaze
While the cake is cooling, it’s time to make the delicious Maltesers glaze. This glaze combines the sweetness of icing sugar with the rich flavors of cocoa and malt, perfectly complementing the chocolatey cake base.
Step 1: Mixing the Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, cocoa powder, and malted milk powder. Slowly add in milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the cake but not so thick that it won’t drizzle easily.
Step 2: Glazing the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, pour the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides. For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle the crushed Maltesers over the glaze while it’s still wet, so they stick to the cake. Allow the glaze to set for about 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Pro Tip: For an extra indulgent touch, garnish with whole Maltesers placed on top of the loaf cake, creating a beautiful and eye-catching presentation.
Tips for Perfecting Your Maltesers Loaf Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend more evenly into the batter, resulting in a smoother texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid developing too much gluten, which can make the cake dense.
- Customize the Toppings: If you want to add more texture, you can mix in crushed Maltesers directly into the batter or sprinkle them over the glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Maltesers Loaf Cake is best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, making it the perfect afternoon treat. It’s also a crowd-pleaser at parties and family gatherings, as the rich chocolate and malt flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
For an extra indulgent experience, serve slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. The combination of creamy ice cream and crunchy Maltesers is simply irresistible.
Storing Your Maltesers Loaf Cake
How to Store
If you have leftovers (though this cake tends to disappear quickly!), store your Maltesers Loaf Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep it longer, the cake can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, though the texture may firm up slightly due to the butter in the batter.
Freezing
Maltesers Loaf Cake can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the cake (unglazed) in plastic wrap, then foil, and store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, allow it to thaw completely at room temperature before glazing and adding fresh toppings.
Final Thoughts: A Sweet and Decadent Treat
Maltesers Loaf Cake combines the best of both worlds—rich, chocolatey cake infused with malt flavor and topped with the irresistible crunch of Maltesers. Whether you’re a die-hard Maltesers fan or just looking for a unique and indulgent dessert, this cake is sure to satisfy. Its simplicity and wow factor make it a fantastic option for any occasion, and with its moist crumb and decadent glaze, it’s bound to become a family favorite.