If you’ve ever wanted to recreate the classic British treat at home, these Homemade Jaffa Cakes are the perfect recipe. Soft, fluffy sponge, tangy orange jelly, and a smooth chocolate coating make these little delights irresistible. Ideal for tea time, dessert plates, or gifting, these Jaffa Cakes are surprisingly easy to make and bring the authentic taste straight from your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic flavor: Sweet sponge, tangy orange jelly, and rich chocolate.
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples and minimal effort.
- Perfect for any occasion: Tea parties, snacks, or gifting.
- Customizable: Adjust the chocolate or jelly flavors to your liking.
- Fun to make: Great baking activity for adults or kids.
Ingredients

- 3 large eggs
- 100g caster sugar
- 100g plain flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 50g unsalted butter, melted
- 100g orange marmalade
- 150g dark chocolate
- Optional: 1 teaspoon orange zest
Step-by-Step Instructions

- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 12-hole muffin tin with paper cases.
- Prepare sponge batter: Beat eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy. Gently fold in flour and baking powder, then add melted butter.
- Bake sponges: Divide the batter evenly among muffin cases and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and springy to the touch. Cool completely.
- Add orange jelly layer: Warm the orange marmalade slightly, then spoon a small amount onto each cooled sponge. Allow it to set slightly.
- Top with chocolate: Melt dark chocolate and spoon over each Jaffa Cake, covering the marmalade. Allow chocolate to set completely.
- Serve: Arrange on a plate and enjoy as a sweet snack or dessert. Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Tips & Variations
- Zest it up: Add orange zest to the sponge or chocolate for extra flavor.
- Different flavors: Swap orange marmalade for raspberry or lemon curd.
- Chocolate options: Use milk or white chocolate instead of dark.
- Mini treats: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized Jaffa Cakes.
- Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from melting.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze Jaffa Cakes for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge before serving.
- Avoid condensation: Keep chocolate-covered side dry to maintain texture.
Serving & Pairing Ideas

- With tea or coffee: The classic British pairing.
- Dessert platter: Add to a tray with shortbread, cookies, and truffles.
- Gift boxes: Wrap individually for homemade gift treats.
- Party snack: Perfect finger food for celebrations or afternoon tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Jaffa Cakes without paper cases?
Yes, but you may need to grease a muffin tray to prevent sticking.
Can I use store-bought sponge?
You can, but fresh sponge makes a lighter, softer Jaffa Cake.
Can I use other jams or curds?
Absolutely! Raspberry, strawberry, or lemon curd works wonderfully.
How do I prevent chocolate from cracking?
Melt chocolate gently and allow it to set at room temperature, avoiding rapid cooling.
Ready to Make It?
These Homemade Jaffa Cakes bring together soft sponge, tangy orange jelly, and rich chocolate in a perfect bite-sized treat. Easy to make, fun to serve, and delicious for any occasion, they’re a must-bake for sweet lovers. Pin this recipe to your Pinterest boards and delight everyone with homemade British-style Jaffa Cakes.
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Homemade Jaffa Cakes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 Jaffa Cakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, fluffy sponge topped with tangy orange jelly and rich chocolate, perfect for homemade Jaffa Cakes.
Ingredients
3 large eggs
100g caster sugar
100g plain flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
50g unsalted butter, melted
100g orange marmalade
150g dark chocolate
Optional: 1 teaspoon orange zest
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a 12-hole muffin tin with paper cases.
2. Beat eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy. Gently fold in flour and baking powder, then add melted butter.
3. Divide batter evenly among muffin cases and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and springy. Cool completely.
4. Warm orange marmalade slightly and spoon a small amount onto each cooled sponge. Allow to set.
5. Melt dark chocolate and spoon over each Jaffa Cake, covering the marmalade. Let chocolate set completely.
6. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
Add orange zest for extra flavor.
Swap orange marmalade for raspberry or lemon curd for variation.
Use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
Mini muffin tins work for bite-sized treats.
Store in an airtight container in a cool place.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Jaffa Cake
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 50mg