Jaffa Cake is a popular treat known for its combination of sponge cake, orange jelly, and chocolate coating. While the origins of Jaffa Cakes are often associated with the United Kingdom, Jaffa is a region in Palestine, and variations of this treat can be found in Middle Eastern cuisine. Here’s a Palestinian-inspired Jaffa Cake recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Sponge Cake:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Orange Jelly:
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons gelatin powder
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a square or rectangular baking pan (about 9×9 inches) with parchment paper.
2. Make the Sponge Cake:
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, mixing gently to combine.
- Add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the sponge cake to cool completely in the pan.
3. Prepare the Orange Jelly:
- In a saucepan, heat the orange juice and sugar over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the orange juice mixture and whisk continuously until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let the orange jelly mixture cool slightly.
- Pour the orange jelly over the cooled sponge cake in the baking pan.
- Refrigerate until the jelly is set.
4. Chocolate Coating:
- Melt the dark chocolate and butter together using a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the set orange jelly layer, spreading it evenly.
- Allow the chocolate to set either at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
5. Cut and Serve:
- Once the chocolate has set, use a sharp knife to cut the Jaffa Cake into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and enjoy your Palestinian-inspired Jaffa Cakes!
These homemade Jaffa Cakes offer a delightful combination of fluffy sponge cake, zesty orange jelly, and a rich chocolate coating—a perfect treat to enjoy with friends and family.