Imagine being in your kitchen, with a sweet citrus smell filling the air. The sight of chocolate melting into soft, spongy circles makes you smile. You’re making Jaffa cakes at home, thanks to this simple recipe.
This isn’t just baking; it’s a celebration of flavors. You’ll mix light sponge cake, rich orange jelly, and chocolate. Making these cakes connects you to British food history. Plus, you can tweak the recipe to your liking, using ingredients you can find easily.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Jaffa cakes are a delightful blend of sponge cake, orange jelly, and chocolate.
- Mary Berry’s recipe uses Hartley’s orange jelly, though substitutions are available in the U.S.
- Homemade jaffa cakes allow for adaptations to suit individual preferences and ingredient availabilities.
- The easy jaffa cake recipe yields 12-16 cakes and provides a fun baking activity.
- The homemade version replicates the beloved taste of store-bought Jaffa cakes remarkably well.
What Are Jaffa Cakes?
If you’re wondering what is jaffa cake, these British treats are more than just chocolate cake. They mix a light sponge, tangy orange jelly, and dark chocolate. This mix creates a sophisticated treat with a burst of flavors.
Jaffa cakes have a unique texture and taste, making them special. They were ruled as cakes, not biscuits, in a 1991 court case. While easy to find in Britain, they’re harder to find in the U.S., making homemade versions a favorite among fans.
McVities, the brand behind Jaffa cakes, fought to keep them as cakes to avoid VAT. The recipe includes butter, orange jelly, Seville orange marmalade, eggs, sugar, flour, and chocolate. The marmalade gives a sharp orange taste, unlike store-bought ones.
Making a chocolate orange cake inspired by Jaffa cakes is a fun project. You’ll need butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and baking powder for the sponge. The buttercream includes marmalade for that citrus kick. A chocolate ganache made from dark chocolate and double cream completes it. This version serves 6-8 people and can be adjusted for different pans and baking times.
Learning about the jaffa cake history and making them at home is rewarding. They stay fresh for up to five days when stored in an airtight tin. Whether you crave a classic or something new, Jaffa cakes offer a tasty journey.
The History of Jaffa Cakes
Learning about the jaffa cake history makes us appreciate these British treats more. Introduced by McVitie and Price in 1927, Jaffa Cakes are a classic British sweet. They have a sponge base, orange jelly, and chocolate on top. The jelly is flavored with Jaffa oranges.
Origins in Britain
Jaffa Cakes started in the U.K. in 1927. They quickly became a favorite across the country. Even though they taste like cakes, they’re taxed like biscuits. This led to a big VAT tribunal in 1991, where McVitie’s won, saying Jaffa Cakes are cakes.
Comparison with American Sweets
Jaffa Cakes differ from American sweets in texture and taste. American sweets are often creamy and sweet. Jaffa Cakes, on the other hand, have a light sponge, orange jelly, and thin chocolate. This mix of flavors and textures makes them unique among British sweets.
| Aspect | Jaffa Cakes | American Sweets |
|---|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Genoise sponge, orange jelly, chocolate | Cream, sugar, chocolate |
| Flavor Profile | Light, citrusy, chocolatey | Rich, sugary, often creamy |
| Texture | Light, spongy | Dense, often chewy or creamy |
Ingredients Needed for Jaffa Cakes
Before you start making how to make Jaffa cakes, you need to get all the ingredients. Here’s a list of everything you need to make these tasty treats:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Orange Juice | 150 milliliters | Jelly Filling |
| Granulated Sugar | 50 grams + 50 grams | Jelly Filling and Cake Batter |
| Orange Zest | 1 tablespoon | Jelly Filling |
| Gelatin Sheets | 3 sheets or 2 envelopes | Jelly Setting |
| Large Eggs | 2 | Cake Batter |
| Vanilla Extract | 1/4 teaspoon | Flavoring |
| All-Purpose Flour | 60 grams | Cake Batter |
| Salt | 1 pinch | Flavor Balance |
| Dark Chocolate | 180 grams | Chocolate Coating |
Let’s look at what you need for each part of the Jaffa Cake:
- Jaffa cake filling: This uses orange juice, sugar, orange zest, and gelatin sheets. It makes a tangy and firm jelly layer.
- Cake Batter: It’s made from eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, flour, and a pinch of salt.
- Chocolate Coating: You need semi-sweet chocolate melted until smooth to cover the top.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to start making how to make Jaffa cakes. Make sure to measure everything carefully for the best results.
Preparation Tips
Getting your jaffa cake just right is all about the prep. You need to set the eggs to room temperature and make the orange jelly filling.
Setting the Eggs to Room Temperature
For the best jaffa cake, start with room temperature eggs. This makes the batter smooth and even. Cold eggs can make it lumpy, ruining the cake’s texture.
Let the eggs sit for about 30 minutes before mixing. This simple step makes a big difference.
Making the Orange Jelly Filling
When making the jelly, be precise. You want it to set completely so it stays on top of the cake. Use top-notch orange marmalade or homemade jelly for the best flavor.
Let the jelly cool down completely before adding it to the cake. This step is key to enjoying a perfect mix of sponge and jelly in every bite.
Step-by-Step Easy Jaffa Cake Recipe
Making homemade jaffa cakes is easy with a detailed recipe. We’ve broken it down into three parts: making the sponge cake, preparing the orange jelly, and combining the layers. Follow this guide to make jaffa cakes that everyone will love.
Making the Sponge Cake
The sponge cake is the base of your jaffa cakes. Here’s how to make it:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C/160°C fan/gas 4.
- Beat the eggs with sugar until thick and pale.
- Fold in the flour gently to keep the air in.
- Pour the batter into a greased mini muffin tin, and bake for 8-9 minutes.
- Let the cakes cool in the tin for 2 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Orange Jelly
The orange jelly adds a zesty flavor to your jaffa cakes. Here’s how to make it:
- Dissolve a 135g pack of orange jelly cubes in 50ml of hot water mixed with fresh orange juice from 1-2 oranges.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow tray and let it cool for about 2 hours or overnight in the fridge.
- Once set, use a round cutter to make jelly discs that fit on top of your sponge cakes.
Combining the Layers
Now it’s time to put the sponge and jelly together:
- Place a jelly disc on top of each sponge cake.
- Melt 125g of dark chocolate and let it cool slightly.
- Coat each jaffa cake with a thin layer of chocolate, covering the jelly and cake edges.
- Let the chocolate set for 10-15 minutes before serving.
This recipe ensures perfect homemade jaffa cakes every time. The combination of flavors and textures will impress your guests.
Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Calories | 107 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturates | 2g |
| Carbs | 16g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Fibre | 1g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Salt | 0.1g |
Classic versus Modern Variations
Jaffa Cakes have been a hit since 1927, made by McVitie & Price. They are famous for their layers of sponge, orange jelly, and chocolate. We’ll look at the traditional Jaffa Cake recipe and the new twists that have come out.
Traditional Jaffa Cake Recipe
The traditional Jaffa Cake recipe has three parts:
- A soft Genoise sponge.
- A tangy orange jelly, often from real Jaffa oranges.
- A smooth chocolate coating, usually milk or dark chocolate.
Each Jaffa Cake has about 46 calories, making it a relatively healthy snack. The mix of flavors is loved, especially with tea in the UK. In 1991, a court ruled they’re cakes, not biscuits, so they’re tax-free. The classic Jaffa Cake recipe is a favorite for those who love a sweet treat.
Modern Twists
While the traditional Jaffa Cake recipe is dear to many, modern bakers have added new flavors. Some top modern Jaffa Cake variations include:
- Lemon, lime, strawberry, and blackcurrant jellies for a fresh twist.
- Dark chocolate coatings for a deeper chocolate taste.
These modern Jaffa Cake variations are loved, even reaching space in 2013. They show how versatile Jaffa Cakes are and keep them a favorite for more years.
Mary Berry’s Jaffa Cake Recipe
Mary Berry’s Jaffa Cake recipe has won the hearts of many bakers. It combines a soft sponge cake, tangy orange jelly, and rich chocolate. Her method makes sure each part is perfect, creating a standout treat.
Why It Stands Out
Mary Berry’s Jaffa Cake recipe is loved for its true British taste and just-right sweetness. In the bake-off, 12 amateur bakers aimed to make 12 perfect Jaffa cakes. They baked at 160ºC for 7 minutes, keeping the sponge light.
Dividing the batter into 12 parts was key for even cakes. This recipe matches the one from Series 7 of The Great British Bake Off. Mary Berry’s skill in combining the layers makes it a fun challenge for bakers.
Adapting Measurements for American Kitchens
Adapting Mary Berry’s Jaffa Cake recipe for American kitchens is easy. Here are some tips for success:
- For the cake batter, use only 150 mL of water, as Mary Berry suggests. This ensures the right consistency.
- Use a 5 cm (2 inches) cookie cutter for the cake layers. This size is perfect.
- While the recipe calls for 180g of chocolate, about 100g is enough without losing flavor or texture.
To get Mary Berry’s exact taste, pay close attention to details. Stick to the exact measurements and baking times. This will make your Jaffa cake recipe very close to the original, making it arguably the best to make at home.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Baking Jaffa Cakes can be tricky. Knowing common mistakes helps you make them perfectly. Here are tips to avoid issues, including the best jaffa cake baking tips.
Issues with Sponge Cake
A dense or flat sponge is a common problem. To fix this, whisk the egg and sugar for 4-5 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. An electric whisk helps a lot. Also, use room temperature eggs for better aeration.
Bake the sponge at 180°C for 7-10 minutes. Over-baking can make it dry.
Problems with Orange Jelly
Orange jelly is key to Jaffa Cakes. If it doesn’t set right, it can be messy. Use 135g of orange jelly and follow the recipe for water and gelatine.
Set the jelly in a 30cm x 20cm tray for an even layer. If it’s too runny, chill it longer or add more gelatine.
Chocolate Coating Troubles
Smooth chocolate coating is crucial. Melt 180g of chocolate over simmering water to avoid burning. Spread it evenly for a neat look.
Etching a criss-cross pattern with a fork adds a nice touch. If chocolate doesn’t set, cool the cakes completely before applying it. Let it set properly.
By following these troubleshooting jaffa cakes tips, you can make perfect homemade Jaffa Cakes every time. Use these insights to master this classic treat.
Why Homemade Jaffa Cakes Are Better
Making your own Jaffa Cakes beats buying them. Freshness is a big plus. You pick the ingredients, so you know what’s in your treat. No worries about preservatives or artificial flavors found in store-bought ones.
Customization is another big advantage. You can make your Jaffa Cakes just how you like them. Want a tangier orange jelly or a different fruit? You can do it. Plus, using high-quality dark chocolate makes them taste even better.
Homemade Jaffa Cakes are also healthier. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Servings: 24
- Calories per serving: 95 kcal
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Freshly squeezed orange juice | 150 ml |
| Caster sugar (for jelly) | 30 g |
| Leaf gelatin sheets | 3 small sheets |
| Very soft butter (for sponges) | 70 g |
| Caster sugar (for sponges) | 100 g |
| Self-raising flour | 100 g |
| Small eggs | 2 |
| Milk at room temperature | 2 tbsp |
| Orange zest | 1 tsp |
| Dark chocolate chips | 100 g |
| Milk chocolate chips | 30 g |
Using a whoopie pie tin and baking in small batches keeps your Jaffa Cakes fresh. Vegetarians can use agar-agar instead of gelatin. For more dietary options, check out this Vegan Batter recipe.
In the end, making your own Jaffa Cakes gives you control over taste, health, and ingredients. Enjoy the joy of baking and the superior taste of homemade Jaffa Cakes.
Popular Jaffa Cake Recipe
Discover the beloved jaffa cake recipe loved by home bakers worldwide. Introduced by McVitie’s in 1927, it has a light sponge, tangy orange jelly, and rich chocolate. Find the top ingredients and steps to make your own Jaffa Cakes at home. Plus, get tips and user reviews to make them even better.
Highly Rated Ingredients and Steps
For the perfect Jaffa Cake, use the best ingredients. Here’s what you need:
- Butter: 75g (⅓ cup)
- Sugar: 150g (¾ cup)
- Milk: 100ml (½ cup less 1 tbsp)
- Eggs: 2 whole eggs, room temperature
- Orange: 1 large orange and 2 tablespoons of sugar for the orange jam filling
- Dark Chocolate: 100g (¾ cup) for the ganache
- Honey: 2 tablespoons for the ganache
To bake, set the oven to 160ºC (320ºF) for 30-35 minutes. Cook the orange jam for 30-40 minutes. It’s easy and will make your cakes delicious. For gluten-free, spelt flour is a great substitute.
User Reviews and Improvements
User reviews love the recipe’s simplicity and homemade taste. Many say it’s easy and the mix of sponge, orange jam, and chocolate is perfect. Here are some tips from users:
- Double the orange filling: Some suggest doubling the orange jam for more flavor.
- Alternative flours: Gluten-free bakers find spelt flour works well.
- Enhanced chocolate ganache: Adding honey or vanilla can make it richer.
Whether it’s your first time or you want to improve, this recipe and user tips will help. You’ll get great results every time.
Storing and Serving Jaffa Cakes
To keep your homemade Jaffa Cakes fresh, it’s key to know how to store them right. After making the sponge cake, orange jelly, and chocolate layers, you don’t want them to lose their taste. The recipe from Andrew in the Kitchen suggests storing them in an airtight container in a cool place or fridge for up to three days. This helps keep them moist and flavorful. You can also freeze them for up to a month if you have leftovers.
There are many ways to serve Jaffa Cakes to make them special. They’re often enjoyed with tea, but try adding candied orange or orange zest for a fancy touch. Serving them at parties or as a dessert can wow your guests. Plus, eating them soon after making them will give you the best taste.
Nutritional Information (per Jaffa Cake)
| Calories | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 130 | 19g | 3g | 6g |
This recipe is great for vegans because it doesn’t use eggs or dairy. You can use coconut milk or other plant-based milks for a vegan version. Dark chocolate, with at least 70% cacao, adds a deep flavor and health benefits.
The secret to keeping Jaffa Cakes fresh is to store them in a cool place. Whether you’re having a casual gathering or a formal event, these tips will make your Jaffa Cakes stand out. Check out how to serve Jaffa Cakes for more ideas.
Troubleshooting Jaffa Cake Issues
Even the most skilled bakers can face jaffa cake problems. Issues like uneven sponges, tricky jelly, or chocolate coating troubles are common. Here, you’ll find fixes for these problems and tips to make your jaffa cakes better.
Fixing Baking Problems
Problems with the sponge can come from wrong methods or ingredients. Make sure your oven is preheated to 200°C and keep it there for 8-10 minutes. This helps the sponge turn lightly golden without getting too hard.
Another mistake is not whisking the egg and sugar mix enough. Whisk until it’s light and thick to avoid a dense sponge. Also, use a 12-hole tart tin or shallow bun tin for even sizes and shapes.
Improving Jelly Texture
Many people struggle with the jelly texture in jaffa cakes. For a smooth jelly, melt the 250g marmalade well and let it cool for 20-30 minutes before using it. This stops the jelly from being too runny.
Also, put a teaspoon of cooled marmalade in the center of each sponge half. This helps the jelly spread evenly. Paying attention to these details will greatly improve your jaffa cakes’ texture.
Fun Variations to Try
Trying new things with your Jaffa Cake recipe can be really fun. You can make this classic treat your own and impress others with your creations. Whether you’re new to Jaffa Cakes or have made them before, these variations will add exciting flavors and textures to your baking.
Raspberry Chocolate Jaffa Cakes
Try making raspberry chocolate Jaffa cakes for a tasty twist. Swap the orange jelly for raspberry jelly for a refreshing taste. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with the sponge cake, using 115g of plain flour and 125g of caster sugar.
- Make the raspberry jelly by mixing raspberry gelatin with 250ml of boiled and 250ml of cold water.
- Chill the jelly in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
- Place the jelly on the cooled sponge base.
- Melt 100g of dark chocolate with 50ml of water to make a ganache, then pour it over the jelly.
This dessert is perfect for those who love a fruity touch. It’s a mix of tart raspberries and smooth chocolate. For more ideas, check out the Jaffa Cake brownie recipe.
Other Flavor Experiments
Trying different Jaffa Cake flavors is a fun adventure for bakers. Here are some flavors to try:
- Lime and Dark Chocolate: Use lime jelly for a zesty twist.
- Coffee and Chocolate: Add coffee-flavored mousse for a richer taste.
- White Chocolate and Lemon: Use lemon jelly and top with white chocolate for a lighter flavor.
- Strawberry and Chocolate: Swap orange jelly for strawberry for a classic mix.
- Peanut Butter and Chocolate: Layer with peanut butter mousse for a nutty twist.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with experimenting with Jaffa Cakes. The possibilities are endless, and it’s fun to find your favorite flavors. For more homemade treat ideas, check out veganbatter.com for a variety of flavors and textures.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our guide to making the perfect Jaffa Cake, let’s look back on our journey. We learned about Jaffa Cakes’ origins in Britain and how to make them in the U.K. and North America. We shared tips on setting eggs and making the orange jelly filling to make your cakes authentic and tasty.
With our easy Jaffa Cake recipe, you can make a treat that’s just as good as store-bought ones. You can try classic recipes or modern twists like raspberry chocolate. Mary Berry’s recipe is a great choice, and we also covered common mistakes to help you improve.
Summing up, making Jaffa Cakes requires patience and attention to detail. It’s a process that teaches you a lot about baking. Our last thoughts? Enjoy the challenge, savor the sweet results, and add your own special touch to this classic. So, get ready to make Jaffa Cakes that will wow everyone.
F.A.Q
What are the essential ingredients needed for Jaffa Cakes?
To make Jaffa Cakes, you need flour, eggs, sugar, orange juice, and gelatin for the jelly. Also, semi-sweet chocolate is key. These ingredients create the cake’s unique layers.
How do I make sure the orange jelly filling sets properly?
For a firm orange jelly, follow the recipe to dissolve gelatin in orange juice. Chill it until it’s firm.
What is the history behind Jaffa Cakes?
Jaffa Cakes started in the UK. They’re known for their sponge, orange jelly, and chocolate. They’re a beloved British snack.
How do you prevent the sponge cake from becoming too dense?
To avoid a dense cake, use room temperature eggs. Beat eggs and sugar well to add air. This makes the cake light and fluffy.
What makes Mary Berry’s Jaffa Cake recipe stand out?
Mary Berry’s recipe is famous for its British taste and sweetness. It’s a classic, adapted for American measurements.
How should Jaffa Cakes be stored to maintain freshness?
Keep Jaffa Cakes in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh for days.
Are there any modern variations of the traditional Jaffa Cake recipe?
Yes, many variations exist. Try raspberry jelly or different chocolate flavors for a twist.
How do I ensure a smooth chocolate coating on my Jaffa Cakes?
For a smooth chocolate, melt it gently in a double boiler. Spread it over the jelly and let it set.
What are the benefits of making homemade Jaffa Cakes?
Homemade Jaffa Cakes are fresher and customizable. They often taste better than store-bought ones.
How can I fix the consistency of my orange jelly if it doesn’t set properly?
If the jelly doesn’t set, add more gelatin. Reheat and chill again until firm.
What are some common mistakes when baking Jaffa Cakes?
Mistakes include overmixing, undercooking, or not letting the chocolate set. Attention to detail is key.
Can you provide any tips for combining the layers effectively?
Cool and set each layer before assembling. This keeps the sponge, jelly, and chocolate distinct.
What are some creative ways to serve Jaffa Cakes?
Serve with whipped cream, on ice cream, or with tea or coffee. You can also crumble them for a topping.
Are there any user-reviewed Jaffa Cake recipes that are highly rated?
Yes, many home bakers love certain Jaffa Cake recipes. User reviews offer tips and improvements.
