Jaffa Cakes Cake: The Best Chocolate Orange Celebration Dessert

Jaffa Cakes Cake takes everything you love about the classic treat the zingy orange jelly, tender sponge, and smooth chocolate and turns it into a stunning layered dessert. This recipe transforms that nostalgic bite into a full-blown celebration cake with three tiers of citrus infused sponge, silky marmalade buttercream, and glossy dark chocolate ganache. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, afternoon tea, or simply craving something indulgent, this Jaffa Cakes Cake is guaranteed to impress. 1.Chocolate and orange fans, this one’s made for you. Let’s explore what makes this bake so irresistible.

Print

A Delicious Twist on a Classic

Reimagining the Jaffa Cake as a Cake

Let’s settle the age old debate before we dive into the mixing bowl is a Jaffa Cake a cake or a biscuit? Legally, it’s a cake. A UK court declared it so in 1991 for VAT tax reasons, much to the relief of McVitie’s. But this Jaffa Cakes Cake recipe is unquestionably a cake in both the legal and culinary sense.

Inspired by the childhood staple, this cake captures everything people love about Jaffa Cakes and amplifies it. We’re talking fluffy orange-zested sponge instead of a small disc, tangy marmalade buttercream in place of orange jelly, and a luxurious chocolate ganache that delivers the same rich cocoa hit you’d expect from the classic snack. The result is a layered masterpiece that looks elegant on a dessert table but brings back warm, nostalgic vibes with every slice.

The brilliance of this cake lies in how each element plays its part. The sponge is light yet holds together beautifully, infused with the zest of fresh oranges for maximum flavor. The marmalade buttercream is both sweet and slightly tart, giving you that citrus tang that cuts through the richness. And then there’s the ganache glossy, indulgent, and just slightly bitter to complement the sweetness below.

If you’re a baker who loves flavor as much as presentation, this Jaffa Cakes Cake delivers both in equal measure. It’s a real chocolate orange cake celebration perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or whenever you want dessert to steal the show.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Orange Cake

There are three key reasons why this Jaffa Cakes Cake has become one of my favorite go-to celebration bakes. First, if you’re a chocolate orange lover, this cake is a dream come true. The combination of dark chocolate and zesty marmalade in this chocolate orange Jaffa Cakes Cake is perfectly balanced timeless yet elevated in flavor.

Second, the presentation is absolutely stunning. This Jaffa Cakes Cake looks like it came straight from a bakery window, yet it’s totally achievable at home with simple tools. Whether you go for an elegant orange zest garnish or a rustic ganache drip, this chocolate orange showstopper never disappoints.

Third, the flavor payoff is huge for such a straightforward recipe. You don’t need jelly layers or gelatine to capture the essence of a traditional Jaffa Cake. Instead, the marmalade buttercream in this Jaffa Cakes-inspired cake delivers bright citrus notes, while the ganache wraps everything in indulgent richness.

Best of all, this Jaffa Cakes Cake recipe is incredibly flexible. Swap marmalade for raspberry or apricot jam, or use granulated sugar instead of caster sugar. However you tweak it, this chocolate orange layer cake always hits the mark. If you’re looking to impress without the stress, this is the Jaffa Cakes Cake to make.

• For rich, layered cakes with a hint of citrus or decadent ganache toppings, the Neiman Marcus cake recipe offers another indulgent option.

From Ingredients to Oven

Everything You Need for This Chocolate Orange Layer Cake

One of the best parts about this chocolate orange layer cake is how easy it is to make no fancy tools or hard to find ingredients needed. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious creation to life:

Butter: Make sure it’s softened at room temperature so it creams easily with sugar, forming the base of your sponge and buttercream.

Caster Sugar: This finer sugar yields a delicate texture, but you can use granulated sugar in a pinch.

Orange Zest: Skip the juice and go for zest this adds concentrated citrus flavor without excess moisture.

Eggs: Use free range, room temperature eggs for best structure and richness.

Self-Raising Flour: This keeps your sponge light. If you don’t have any, mix 200g plain flour with 2 tsp baking powder and a pinch of salt.

Baking Powder: Just a little to boost the rise.

Icing Sugar: Perfect for making that smooth, structured buttercream.

Marmalade: Adds a tangy kick. Choose a variety that’s not overly bitter to keep the balance just right.

Dark Chocolate: Use at least 70% cocoa solids for that unmistakably rich ganache flavor.

Double Cream: Makes the ganache silky, spreadable, and downright indulgent.

Optional Decorations: Add a playful touch with curls of orange peel, shards of dark chocolate, or even mini Jaffa Cakes for a fun, eye-catching finish.

You likely have most of this in your pantry already. What makes this recipe shine isn’t complexity it’s the thoughtful layering of flavor and texture.

Simple Substitutions and Easy Tweaks

If you’re baking on a whim (as I often am), it’s good to know where you can adapt without ruining the result. The base cake and buttercream are forgiving and flexible.

Self-Raising Flour Substitute
If all you have is plain flour, you’re still good to go. For each 200g of flour, add 2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. Mix well before using.

Marmalade Alternatives
Not a fan of marmalade? Try apricot or raspberry jam for a fresh twist. They still bring fruitiness and tang, just with different personality. Raspberry gives the cake a Jaffa Cake meets Black Forest feel, while apricot is a smoother, milder swap.

No Caster Sugar?
You can use granulated sugar instead. Just beat it thoroughly with the butter to ensure it dissolves and doesn’t leave your sponge grainy.

Decor Tips
Want to take your Jaffa Cakes Cake to the next level? Try lining the base with whole Jaffa Cakes, drizzling melted chocolate over the top, or adding a sprinkle of edible gold flakes for a show-stopping finish. Even a simple dusting of cocoa powder or a touch of orange zest can add that extra flair.

No Ganache? Try a Glaze.
If ganache feels a bit too heavy, swap it out for a lighter cocoa glaze made with powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and a splash of water or milk. It won’t be quite as thick, but it’ll still deliver that beautiful glossy sheen.

This cake is all about comfort and nostalgia, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be tailored to your tastes. Whether you keep it classic or make a few swaps, this chocolate orange layer cake delivers every time.

• If you’re into versatile bakes with pantry staples, check out our banana cottage cheese pancakes they’re protein-packed and full of flavor.

• Want more clever baking swaps and sugar alternatives? You’ll find great tips in our cottage cheese bagel recipe that also highlight easy ingredient switches.

How to Make the Jaffa Cakes Cake

Step-by-Step Guide to the Ultimate Chocolate Orange Cake Recipe

Now that you’ve got your ingredients prepped and your substitutions sorted, it’s time to bake! This Jaffa Cakes Cake comes together in three key stages: baking the sponge layers, whipping the marmalade buttercream, and finishing with a glossy chocolate ganache. Here’s how it all works:

Step 1: Make the Orange Sponge Layers

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake tins.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 250g softened butter and 250g caster sugar until pale and fluffy this takes about 4–5 minutes with a hand mixer.
3. Add the zest of two large oranges and mix to combine.
4. Beat in 4 eggs, one at a time, scraping the bowl between each addition.
5. Sift in 250g self-raising flour and 1 tsp baking powder, folding gently until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the tins and smooth the tops.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool the cakes in their tins for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Marmalade Buttercream

1. Beat 200g softened butter until creamy and light.
2. Gradually add 400g icing sugar, mixing well between additions.
3. Stir in 3 tablespoons of marmalade. Taste and adjust with an extra spoonful if you want more tang.
4. If the buttercream feels too thick, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it’s spreadable.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. Place one sponge layer on a cake board or serving plate.
2. Spread a generous layer of marmalade buttercream on top.
3. Add the second sponge, repeat the buttercream layer, then top with the final sponge.
4. Use the remaining buttercream to coat the top and sides of the cake, smoothing with an offset spatula or bench scraper.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. Chop 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa) and place in a heatproof bowl.
2. Heat 150ml double cream in a saucepan until just simmering don’t let it boil.
3. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes.
4. Stir slowly from the center until glossy and smooth. Let it cool slightly before pouring.

Step 5: Decorate

Once your ganache has cooled slightly, pour it over the assembled Jaffa Cakes Cake, letting it drip naturally down the sides for that bakery-style finish. This final touch transforms your chocolate orange cake into a true celebration centerpiece.

To decorate, add curls of fresh orange peel, elegant chocolate shavings, or even top your Jaffa Cakes Cake with mini Jaffa Cakes for a playful and nostalgic nod to the original treat. The contrast between the smooth ganache and textured garnishes makes every slice visually irresistible.

Let the cake set at room temperature or chill briefly to firm up the ganache before slicing and serving. This helps maintain that clean, glossy finish for your showstopper Jaffa Cakes Cake dessert.

Tips for Success and Easy Fixes

• If your buttercream splits, add a spoonful of icing sugar and beat again until smooth. The citrus in marmalade can sometimes cause minor curdling—totally fixable!
• Don’t pour hot ganache. Always let it cool for a few minutes so it glides gently over your chocolate orange Jaffa Cakes Cake.
• Always zest your oranges before juicing you’ll need that fragrant peel for max citrus flavor in your sponge and buttercream.
• Want a simpler version? Bake your Jaffa Cakes Cake in two deeper pans and slice each in half. This saves oven space and still gives you those beautiful layers without extra pans or stress.

Whether you’re brand new to baking or already confident with layered cakes, this Jaffa Cakes Cake recipe is forgiving, flexible, and always crowd-pleasing. It’s the kind of chocolate orange cake you’ll come back to again and again. from a patisserie window.

• Craving more step-by-step cake recipes? Our gooey Neiman Marcus cake is another reader favorite with indulgent layers.

Serving Suggestions and Make Ahead Tips

This cake is best served at room temperature, when the ganache is slightly glossy and the buttercream fluffy. A sharp serrated knife gives you clean layers with every slice. Pair it with a cup of black tea or espresso for a dessert that’s nostalgic and elegant at once.

Hosting a party?
Save time by baking the sponge layers a day or two in advance. Once they’re completely cool, wrap them tightly in cling film and store at room temperature. The buttercream and ganache can also be prepared ahead just pop them in the fridge and bring them to room temperature before assembling. Give the buttercream a quick re-whip to restore its smooth, fluffy texture..

Want to prep even further in advance?
You can fully assemble the Jaffa Cakes Cake minus the ganache and freeze it for later. Just wrap it tightly in cling film and foil, and it’ll stay fresh for up to a month. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge, let it come to room temperature, then add a fresh layer of ganache and your favorite decorations.

Storage and Leftovers

This cake keeps well for 3–4 days in an airtight container at room temperature, though it’s best eaten in the first two. If your kitchen is particularly warm, pop it in the fridge and let it sit out for 20 minutes before serving to allow the ganache and buttercream to soften.

Freezing Leftovers?
Slice the Jaffa Cakes Cake into individual portions, then wrap each slice tightly in cling film and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. They make perfect after-dinner treats just let a slice defrost at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

Whether you’re serving it for a celebration or enjoying a slice solo, this jaffa cake chocolate orange dessert brings comfort, class, and just the right amount of childhood joy.

Fore more recipes follow me at Pinterest and facebook