If you’ve ever wondered how to make a jelly cake, you’re in for a treat! Jelly cakes are colorful, fun, and surprisingly easy to make. They combine the soft texture of cake with the vibrant, wobbly charm of jelly, creating a dessert that’s perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a sweet afternoon snack. In this article, I’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, sharing tips and tricks to make your jelly cake both beautiful and delicious.
What Is a Jelly Cake?
A jelly cake is essentially a soft cake that’s coated or layered with jelly. The jelly can be fruit-flavored gelatin or agar agar, and it adds a glossy, colorful finish that’s as tasty as it is eye-catching. Some recipes sandwich jelly between cake layers, while others dip mini cakes into jelly and roll them in coconut for a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a basic list to get you started, but remember, you can always customize flavors and fruits!
– For the cake:
– All-purpose flour
– Baking powder
– Salt
– Sugar
– Unsalted butter
– Eggs
– Vanilla essence
– Milk
– For the jelly coating or layers:
– Jelly crystals or agar agar powder
– Water (hot and cold, as per jelly instructions)
– Sugar (if using agar agar)
– Fresh fruits (optional, for layering inside the jelly)
– Desiccated coconut (optional, for coating)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Jelly Cake
1. Prepare the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla essence.
Now, alternate adding the flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, folding gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
2. Bake the Cake
Grease your cake pans or cupcake molds, then pour the batter in. For mini jelly cakes, use a tablespoon or ice cream scoop to portion the batter evenly. Bake for about 10 to 30 minutes depending on the size of your cakes—mini cakes take less time, larger cakes more.
Once baked, let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack. For sandwich-style jelly cakes, you may want to trim the domed tops to create flat surfaces for layering.
3. Make the Jelly
Follow the instructions on your jelly packet or agar agar package. Typically, you dissolve jelly crystals in boiling water, then add cold water. For agar agar, boil it with water and sugar, stirring until dissolved. Chill the jelly in the fridge until it’s thickened but still pourable—this is important for dipping or layering.
4. Assemble Your Jelly Cake
There are a few popular ways to assemble:
– Dipping Method (Mini Jelly Cakes): Dip each cooled mini cake into the thickened jelly, then roll it in desiccated coconut. Set aside to firm up. Once all cakes are coated, sandwich two halves together with whipped cream or frosting if you like.
– Layered Jelly Cake: Pour a thin layer of jelly into a cake tin and add chopped fresh fruits on top. Pour more jelly over the fruits and chill until set. Then add a layer of cake or sponge, and repeat with jelly layers. This creates a beautiful, colorful cake with jelly and fruit layers visible through the sides.
– Sandwich Jelly Cake: Spread jelly on one cake layer, top with whipped cream or Chantilly cream, then place another cake layer on top. Repeat jelly and cream layers as desired. Finish by coating the outside with jelly and coconut flakes for a stunning finish.
5. Chill and Serve
After assembling, refrigerate your jelly cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the jelly to set fully and the flavors to meld. Serve chilled for the best texture and taste.
Tips for a Perfect Jelly Cake
– Don’t let the jelly set completely before dipping: The jelly should be thick but still liquidy to coat the cakes properly.
– Use fresh fruits for layering: Fruits like kiwi, pomegranate, grapes, and oranges add color and freshness inside the jelly layers.
– Trim cake tops for neat sandwiches: Flat surfaces help cakes stick together better when layered.
– Experiment with flavors: Raspberry, apple, and tropical fruit jellies work wonderfully.
– Add cream for richness: Chantilly cream or whipped cream balances the sweetness and adds a creamy texture.
Why Make a Jelly Cake?
Jelly cakes are not only visually stunning but also versatile. They’re light, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather. Plus, they’re a fun project for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you want mini treats or a show-stopping centerpiece cake, jelly cakes can be tailored to your taste and occasion.
Making a jelly cake is a delightful way to combine textures and flavors in a unique dessert that’s sure to impress. With a little patience and creativity, you can create a colorful, tasty masterpiece that everyone will love.
Enjoy your baking adventure and the delicious results!