When it comes to defining what is a cake, many people have different opinions. Some believe that a cake should be fluffy and light, while others think that it should be dense and moist. But what about Jaffa Cakes? Are they really cakes or something else entirely?
History of Jaffa Cakes
Jaffa Cakes were first introduced in the UK in 1927 by McVitie's, a popular British biscuit company. They are a type of biscuit-sized cake that consists of a sponge base, topped with a layer of orange-flavored jelly, and covered in chocolate.
The name "Jaffa" refers to the type of orange used in the jelly filling, which is a variety of orange that is grown in Jaffa, a city in Israel. Jaffa Cakes are now a popular snack in the UK and are often enjoyed with a cup of tea.
The Cake or Biscuit Debate
Despite their name, Jaffa Cakes have sparked a longstanding debate over whether they are cakes or biscuits. In the UK, there is a tax on chocolate-covered biscuits, but not on chocolate-covered cakes. In 1991, McVitie's argued that Jaffa Cakes were cakes and not biscuits, and won their case in court.
The judge ruled that Jaffa Cakes were cakes because they were similar in texture to a sponge cake, and became hard when stale. In contrast, biscuits are typically crisp and snap when broken, and become soft when stale. The judge also noted that Jaffa Cakes are typically served as a dessert, rather than as a snack like biscuits.
What Makes a Cake a Cake?
So, what exactly makes a cake a cake? According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a cake is "a sweet baked food made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and other ingredients, usually containing eggs and baked in an oven." Cakes are typically baked in a round or square shape, and are often frosted or decorated in some way.
Cakes can come in a variety of textures, from light and fluffy to dense and moist. They may also contain various fillings, such as fruit, nuts, or cream. However, what sets cakes apart from other baked goods, such as biscuits or pastries, is their light and airy texture.
Are Jaffa Cakes Really Cakes?
Based on the definition of a cake, Jaffa Cakes would seem to qualify. They are a sweet baked food made from a mixture of flour, sugar, and other ingredients, and are baked in an oven. They also have a sponge-like texture, which is similar to that of a traditional cake.
However, the fact that Jaffa Cakes are typically served as a snack, rather than a dessert, has led some to argue that they are not really cakes. Additionally, Jaffa Cakes are often sold alongside biscuits in supermarkets, which has caused some confusion over their classification.
Conclusion
So, is a Jaffa Cake a cake or a biscuit? The answer may depend on who you ask. From a legal standpoint, Jaffa Cakes are considered cakes in the UK. However, some people may argue that their texture and serving size make them more similar to a biscuit. Ultimately, whether you consider Jaffa Cakes to be cakes or biscuits, there's no denying that they are a delicious treat that is enjoyed by many.