Include in Print View:

Spelt Jaffa Cakes

Spelt Jaffa Cakes arranged on a rustic wooden board

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.

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Rest Time 1 hr
Total Time 1 hr 35 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Beginner
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
    For the Jelly:
  • 150 ml Fresh orange juice (sieved)
  • 2 tsp Gelatine powder (or vegetarian equivalent)
  • 1 tbsp Honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
    • For the Sponge Base:
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 50 g Coconut sugar or light brown sugar
  • 50 g White spelt flour
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
    • For the Chocolate Topping:
  • 100 g Dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
  • 1 tsp Coconut oil (optional for smoother finish)
Instructions
    Make the Orange Jelly:
  1. 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.
    2. Preheat the Oven:
  2. 2
    Heat oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F. Lightly grease a shallow bun/muffin tray.
    3. Prepare the Sponge:
  3. 3
    Whisk eggs and sugar for 5 minutes until pale and thick. Fold in the spelt flour and vanilla extract gently.
    4. Bake the Sponge Bases:
  4. 4
    Spoon 1 tbsp of batter into each bun tray cavity. Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and springy. Cool on a wire rack.
    5. Cut the Jelly Circles:
  5. 5
    Use a small round cutter to cut jelly discs the size of each sponge. Place one on top of each cooled sponge.
    6. Melt the Chocolate:
  6. 6
    Gently melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil (if using) over a bain-marie or in short bursts in the microwave.
    7. Top with Chocolate:
  7. 7
    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

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!

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-jaffa-cakes/
Valentina - Spelt Recipes
Valentina
A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!