The Jaffa Cake is a beloved British snack, known for its unique combination of sponge cake, orange-flavored jelly, and a chocolate topping. This confection has intrigued fans and sparked debates about its true identity.

From its origins to the legal battles surrounding its classification, here’s everything you need to know about Jaffa Cakes.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Jaffa Cakes were first created by McVitie’s in 1927. Originally designed to be a light snack, they quickly gained popularity due to their unique texture and blend of flavors.

Jaffa Cakes’ appeal lies in their trifecta of layers: soft sponge, tangy orange jelly, and rich chocolate coating.

The Great Debate: Is a Jaffa Cake a Cake or a Biscuit?

For decades, fans and British courts have debated whether Jaffa Cakes are truly cakes or belong in the biscuit category. This debate isn’t just for fun—it has real tax implications in the UK.

Biscuits covered in chocolate are subject to VAT, whereas cakes are not.

McVitie’s had to defend their classification of Jaffa Cakes in a legal VAT tribunal in 1991. The court ruled in favor of McVitie’s, solidifying the product as a cake, thanks to its ingredients, texture, and tendency to harden rather than soften

Recipe Card

5 Steps to Irresistible Homemade Treats

Print Recipe

This easy 5-step recipe lets you craft homemade Jaffa Cakes that are soft, tangy, and irresistible. Perfect for a delicious treat!

Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 12 Jaffa Cakes 1x

Ingredients

Scale

2 large eggs
100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
100g (3/4 cup) self-raising flour
1 packet of orange jelly (approx. 100g)
200g (7 oz) dark or milk chocolate (for coating)
2 tbsp water (for jelly)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Jelly:

Dissolve the orange jelly in boiling water. Pour into a shallow dish and refrigerate until set. Cut into small discs using a circular cutter.

2. Make the Sponge Base:

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a muffin tin lightly. Whisk eggs and sugar together until fluffy. Gently fold in the flour.

3. Fill the Muffin Tin:

Pour a tablespoon of batter into each muffin cup and spread evenly. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until springy. Let cool.

4. Assemble the Jaffa Cakes:

Place a jelly disc on top of each sponge base.

5. Coat with Chocolate:

Melt the chocolate and spoon it over the jelly-topped cakes. Let set before serving.

Notes

Ensure the sponge is fully cooled before adding the jelly and chocolate to prevent melting.
For a smoother finish, let the chocolate set at room temperature instead of refrigerating.

Author: Amian
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Category: Dessert, Snack, Sweet Treats
Method: Baking
Cuisine: International
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 Jaffa Cake
Calories: 150kcal
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 30mg
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Reasons Behind the Classification

Texture: Unlike a biscuit, which is crisp, Jaffa Cakes have a sponge-like softness.
Ingredients: The recipe resembles a traditional cake, with flour, eggs, and sugar.
Staleness: Jaffa Cakes harden when stale, similar to cakes, while biscuits tend to soften.

Ingredients and Structure

A traditional Jaffa Cake consists of three key layers:

Sponge Base – Light and airy, resembling a cake layer.
Orange-Flavored Jelly – Adds a distinct, tangy taste.
Chocolate Topping – Provides a smooth, rich finish.

Each layer contributes to the taste and experience of eating a Jaffa Cake. Homemade versions are increasingly popular, with slight variations to suit different tastes, including options like gluten-free and vegan Jaffa Cakes.

Variations

Over the years, Jaffa Cakes have expanded beyond the original orange flavor. Limited-edition varieties include lemon, lime, and even pineapple flavors, though many fans argue that the classic orange remains the best.

These seasonal variations appeal to those who enjoy trying new flavors without straying too far from the original concept.

How to Make YOUR recipe at home

Making Jaffa Cakes at home can be rewarding and relatively simple if you have the right ingredients. Here’s a quick overview of the process:

Prepare the Sponge Base – A light batter similar to a cake recipe.

2. Create the Orange Jelly – Use orange ice or marmalade for a tangy layer.

3. Assemble and Top with Chocolate – Melt chocolate and spread it over the jelly for the final touch.

To achieve the iconic flavor, focus on balancing the sweetness of the sponge, the tang of the jelly, and the richness of the chocolate.

Jaffa Cakes in Popular Culture

Jaffa Cakes have achieved iconic status in British culture. They frequently appear in TV shows, and advertisements, and are a go-to snack for many British households. This cultural status further cements their place as a symbol of British snacking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
Budget-Friendly – Uses pantry basics.
Authentic Taste – Recreate the original British flavor at home.
Kid-Friendly – A fun and safe recipe for kids to help with.
Customizable – Swap out the orange jelly for other flavors.

FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions about Jaffa Cakes, sourced from common queries.

Are Jaffa Cakes vegan?
While traditional Jaffa Cakes contain eggs, there are vegan recipes available for those seeking plant-based options.
Why are they called Jaffa Cakes?
The name comes from Jaffa oranges, a specific variety used to flavor the jelly.
Can you buy Jaffa Cakes outside the UK?
Yes, they are available internationally, although availability may vary by country.

By understanding the history, composition, and unique cultural relevance of Jaffa Cakes, we can appreciate why these treats continue to captivate audiences. Whether you prefer the store-bought originals or enjoy making them at home, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of this British classic.

My Sweet Tradition: Crafting Classic Jaffa Cakes at Home

Growing up, Jaffa Cakes were always a staple in my family. Every Sunday afternoon, my grandmother would pull out a fresh pack of Jaffa Cakes as we sat around the table chatting.

It became something of a family tradition, but as I got older, I became curious about how to recreate them from scratch. The first time I made them, I remember watching the jelly set in the fridge, waiting impatiently to layer it onto the soft sponge and then top it with chocolate.

When they were finally ready, I was amazed at how they tasted just like the store-bought ones but with a little more homemade charm. Now, whenever I make them, they bring back those cozy Sunday afternoons and make me feel like I’m carrying on a sweet family tradition in my kitchen.

The Complete Guide to Jaffa Cakes