How to Bake a Cake Using a Jiko

Baking a cake doesn’t always require an oven. In Kenya, many people use a jiko (charcoal stove) to bake delicious cakes at home. With the right technique, you can enjoy soft and tasty cakes without electricity. Here’s how to do it.

What You’ll Need

• A jiko with charcoal

• A sufuria (cooking pot) with a lid

• Sand or small stones (to regulate heat)

• Mixing bowl and spoon

• Whisk or hand mixer

• Cake ingredients (flour, sugar, eggs, milk, baking powder, butter/ margarine, vanilla essence)

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.

2. Add eggs one at a time while whisking.

3. Mix in flour, baking powder, and milk gradually.

4. Add vanilla essence or other flavoring.

5. Stir until the batter is smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the Jiko

1. Light charcoal in the jiko and allow it to burn until medium hot.

2. Place a layer of sand or stones inside the sufuria to act as a heat regulator.

3. Place a metal stand or small tin over the sand to hold the baking tin.

Step 3: Pour Batter and Bake

1. Grease another sufuria or baking tin with butter.

2. Pour in the cake batter and cover with a lid.

3. Place the baking tin inside the sufuria on the stand.

4. Cover the top of the lid with some hot charcoal to create an oven-like effect.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

• Let the cake bake for about 45–60 minutes, depending on the size.

• Avoid opening the lid frequently to prevent heat loss.

• Use a toothpick to test if the cake is ready (it should come out clean).

Step 5: Cool and Serve

• Remove the cake and let it cool.

• Slice and serve with tea, juice, or as a dessert.

Tips for Baking a Cake on a Jiko

• Always regulate the heat to avoid burning the bottom of the cake.

• Use a thick sufuria or double-layer to distribute heat evenly.

• Experiment with flavors like lemon zest, cocoa, or cinnamon for variety.

FAQs

1. Can I bake any type of cake on a jiko?
Yes, you can bake plain, chocolate, fruit, or marble cakes.

2. Do I need an oven thermometer?
Not necessary, but regulating charcoal is key. Medium heat works best.

3. What if I don’t have sand or stones?
You can use an old baking tin or metal stand as a base to regulate heat.

4. Can I bake bread on a jiko the same way?
Yes, the method is similar. Just adjust baking time accordingly.

5. How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Don’t use too much charcoal on the lid, and avoid overbaking.

Conclusion

Baking a cake using a jiko is simple and effective with the right preparation. By regulating heat and using a sufuria setup, you can enjoy homemade cakes without an oven.