Jellycat Birthday Cake with Citrus Syrup

Name: Jellycat Birthday Cake with Citrus Syrup
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup milk; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup water; ½ cup fresh orange juice; ½ cup fresh lemon juice; Zest of one lemon; Zest of one orange; Whipped cream; Fresh fruits (like berries and citrus slices); Edible flowers (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking special cakes for birthdays, and this Jellycat Birthday Cake with Citrus Syrup is my new favorite! It's whimsical and fun, with a delightful citrus twist that just brightens the whole experience. The fluffy layers of soft cake paired with the vibrant citrus syrup make it a truly memorable treat. I've enjoyed making this cake not just for its taste but also for the smiles it brings to those I serve it to. It's the perfect celebratory dessert that will leave everyone asking for more!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-16T13:58:19.033Z

When I decided to make this Jellycat Birthday Cake, I wanted something that captured the joy of childhood while still being delicious. The addition of citrus syrup adds a refreshing note that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the cake. After a few trials, I found that using a mix of lemon and orange juice in the syrup creates a flavor profile that's bright and uplifting.

One detail that made a huge difference was allowing the syrup to soak into the cake layers for a bit before serving. This step not only enhances moisture but also allows the citrus flavor to really shine through. Trust me, it's worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Whimsical design that brings joy to any celebration
Bright and zesty citrus flavor that refreshes every bite
Fluffy texture that is simply irresistible, especially with the syrup

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When baking this Jellycat Birthday Cake, the quality of your ingredients can truly make a difference. Using fresh eggs and high-quality butter not only improves the texture of the cake but also enhances its flavor. Opt for organic eggs if possible, as they provide a richer yolk, giving the cake a deeper color and taste. Additionally, using freshly squeezed lemon and orange juice for the citrus syrup will infuse your cake with vibrant, zesty notes that store-bought juices can't replicate.

Don't underestimate the role that mixing plays in achieving the perfect cake. It's crucial to cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. This process incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture. When you add the eggs, it’s best to ensure they are at room temperature, which helps them blend in more smoothly and contribute to the cake's overall fluffiness.

Decoration Tips for a Showstopper

The decoration of your Jellycat Birthday Cake can elevate it from delicious to dazzling. Using whipped cream is a fantastic choice, as it adds a contrasting creamy element against the fluffy cake layers. For the best results, whip the cream until soft peaks form—this ensures it holds its shape when smoothed onto the cake. I recommend adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream to enhance the overall flavor profile of the cake.

Fresh fruits can provide vibrant color and natural sweetness, making them ideal for garnishing. Berries like strawberries or blueberries not only complement the citrus flavors well but also offer a lovely visual appeal. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding edible flowers for a whimsical touch. Just ensure they are sourced from a reliable source where they are specifically labeled safe for consumption, adding both beauty and a hint of floral flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Jellycat Birthday Cake can easily be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy schedules. You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. The citrus syrup can also be prepared a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

When it comes time to serve, ensure that the cake sits at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing to enhance the flavors. If you have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator. The cake is best consumed within 3-4 days, but it can be frozen for up to a month. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best texture.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Citrus Syrup

1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
½ cup fresh orange juice
½ cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of one lemon
Zest of one orange

For Decoration

Whipped cream
Fresh fruits (like berries and citrus slices)
Edible flowers (optional)

Make sure to use fresh citrus for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk until fully incorporated.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly into two prepared 9-inch round cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Citrus Syrup

In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in the orange juice, lemon juice, and zests. Allow to cool.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cakes are cool, remove the tops with a serrated knife for a flat surface. Place one layer on a serving plate and soak it with half of the citrus syrup. Spread a layer of whipped cream on top, then place the second cake layer on top.

Final Touches

Soak the top layer with the remaining citrus syrup and decorate with whipped cream, fresh fruits, and edible flowers if using. Let the cake rest for a bit to absorb the flavors before slicing.

Enjoy your delightful Jellycat Birthday Cake!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a splash of citrus liqueur to the syrup. It enhances the complexity of the cake beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cake comes out too dense, it may be due to overmixing once the flour is added. Aim to mix until just combined. Another common issue is not achieving enough rise; ensure your baking powder is fresh and not expired. You can test its potency by dropping a spoonful in hot water—if it bubbles vigorously, it's good to use.

Additionally, if your baked cake edges are browning too quickly while the center remains raw, this could be due to your oven's temperature calibration. You might want to rotate the cake halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Using an oven thermometer can help maintain consistent temperature during baking.

Variations on the Classic Cake

To switch things up, you can modify the flavor profiles in the cake and syrup. Consider incorporating lime juice or grapefruit juice to give a different citrus note. Herbs like basil or mint can introduce a unique flavor twist when infused into the syrup—simply steep them in the syrup while it cools for an aromatic touch.

For a more decadent cake, layer in some zesty cream cheese frosting instead of whipped cream. The tanginess of the cream cheese pairs beautifully with citrus, adding another layer of flavor complexity. Alternatively, you might try swapping some of the milk for buttermilk to add an extra richness to the cake's texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Just wrap them tightly and refrigerate. Soak with the syrup before serving.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water or 1/4 cup of applesauce.

→ Is it possible to use different flavors for the syrup?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits or even add flavored extracts like vanilla or almond.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days.