Spelt Jaffa Cakes

Servings: 12 Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Soft, zesty, and dipped in chocolate – made lighter with spelt flour!
Spelt Jaffa Cakes arranged on a rustic wooden board View Gallery 3 photos

A Lighter Twist on a British Favourite

Spelt Jaffa Cakes are the wholesome upgrade to the iconic teatime treat. You still get the soft sponge, zingy orange jelly, and smooth chocolate top – but with the nutty, nutritious touch of spelt flour.

The texture is light, the flavour is nostalgic, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cutting back on processed ingredients or just fancy a more natural bake, this one ticks the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These homemade Jaffa Cakes skip the additives and dial up the flavour. Spelt flour adds depth, while the orange jelly is made fresh from juice, not packets.

They’re great for packed lunches, kids’ snacks, or as a post-dinner treat. Plus, they look impressive but need only simple baking steps.

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 25 mins Cook Time 10 mins Rest Time 1 hr Total Time 1 hr 35 mins
Servings: 12 Estimated Cost: £ 4.50 Calories: 120
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Light sponge made with spelt flour, topped with fresh orange jelly and rich dark chocolate – a homemade version of the classic Jaffa Cake, with a healthy twist.

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

For the Jelly:

For the Sponge Base:

For the Chocolate Topping:

Instructions

Make the Orange Jelly:

  1. Warm orange juice in a pan over low heat. Stir in gelatine until fully dissolved. Add honey or syrup if using. Pour into a flat dish and refrigerate for 1 hour until firm.

Preheat the Oven:

  1. Heat oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F. Lightly grease a shallow bun/muffin tray.

Prepare the Sponge:

  1. Whisk eggs and sugar for 5 minutes until pale and thick. Fold in the spelt flour and vanilla extract gently.

Bake the Sponge Bases:

  1. Spoon 1 tbsp of batter into each bun tray cavity. Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and springy. Cool on a wire rack.

Cut the Jelly Circles:

  1. Use a small round cutter to cut jelly discs the size of each sponge. Place one on top of each cooled sponge.

Melt the Chocolate:

  1. Gently melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil (if using) over a bain-marie or in short bursts in the microwave.

Top with Chocolate:

  1. Spoon or pipe chocolate over each jelly-topped cake. Let it spread and settle. Leave to set at room temperature or refrigerate briefly.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 12


Amount Per Serving
Calories 120kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 6g10%
Saturated Fat 3.5g18%
Cholesterol 30mg10%
Sodium 10mg1%
Potassium 100mg3%
Total Carbohydrate 14g5%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 8g
Protein 3g6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

The jelly can be made the day before and stored in the fridge.

Use a silicone bun tray for easy release of the sponges.

Keywords: spelt, Jaffa cakes, homemade, healthier baking, chocolate orange
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Optional Substitutions & Variations:

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of spelt.
  • Vegan Option: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use agar-agar for jelly, and dairy-free chocolate.
  • Citrus Twist: Try blood orange juice for a deeper flavour and colour.

Tips & Variations

Make It Your Way:

  • No Gelatine? Agar-agar is a great veggie option. Use about 1g per 100ml juice.
  • Fancy Shapes: Use mini silicone moulds to make fun-shaped jellies.
  • Chocolate Boost: Add orange zest to melted chocolate for extra citrus kick.

Conclusion

Give these Spelt Jaffa Cakes a go – they’re simple, satisfying, and feel like a treat without the guilt. If you're into baking with better ingredients, this is a win.

Tried it? Let me know how it went or tag your bake with #SpeltJaffaCakes – I’d love to see them!

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:

Can I freeze Spelt Jaffa Cakes?

Yes – freeze without the chocolate topping, then add it fresh after defrosting to avoid bloom or cracking.

How long do they last?

Store in an airtight container in a cool place for up to 4 days. They’re best eaten within 2.

Can I use orange marmalade instead of jelly?

Yes – add a small dollop of thick-cut marmalade instead of jelly for a quicker version.

What can I use instead of coconut sugar?

Light brown sugar, caster sugar, or even maple syrup (reduce liquid slightly) all work well.

Do I need special equipment?

No – a basic bun or muffin tray, whisk, and small round cutter are all you need.

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