BILTONG. CAKE.
Yes. You read that right. Biltong…cake.
Ever since I was born in whatever year the universe dropped me here, I thought I had seen it all when it comes to desserts.
My sweet tooth? Loyal forever—until the moment it betrayed me, screamed, and flipped the script entirely. Because someone…actually…made a cake out of biltong! My brain short-circuited, my taste buds panicked, and my dessert-loving heart nearly skipped a beat.
And I didn’t want to die alone in shock, so naturally, I had to get Michelle Levy to explain herself. She’s the brilliant mastermind behind Biltong Cakes & Beyond, and somehow—magically—she made it work. Bold, jaw-dropping, and audacious, her cakes make you question every dessert choice you have ever made. Seriously—a cake made entirely of biltong?! My sweet tooth screamed “No!” while my curiosity did cartwheels.
So, in our exclusive chat with Africa Jamz FM News, Michelle spills everything: how she dreamed this up, what inspired her, and why people are actually eating—and loving—it.
And who knows, by the end of this article, you might be dialing her faster than you can say, “Biltong cake for my birthday, please!”
Where it all began
Kicking off our chat, I asked Michelle, “So, what inspired you to create biltong cakes?” She jumped right in, sharing the story behind her unusual idea and why she decided to use biltong instead of the usual cake ingredients. Was it curiosity? A love for all things savory? Or something totally unexpected?
“I was inspired to create biltong cakes after my business partner Sari introduced me to the concept. We were both invited to the same anniversary party and I just didn’t have a clue what to give as a gift. Sari suggested taking a biltong cake. I was skeptical at first, as I had never heard of a “Biltong Cake”, but it sounded like a different idea and my curiosity was peaked.
“Then when I saw it, I was blown away by the uniqueness and creativity (as was everyone else). I thought it was a brilliant idea, especially for those looking for a non-traditional gift that stands out from the usual cakes. It was then Sari asked me if I would be her partner as she was as inspired by the idea as much as I was. So, that’s how Biltong Cakes & Beyond was born.
“Our biltong cakes are conversation starters and are made entirely of biltong and drywors, perfect for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or even just a fun gathering with friends. The WOW factor is undeniable, and they have become a popular choice for those looking for something different and exciting, with no traditional cake ingredients,” said Michelle.
From idea to edible masterpiece
Continuing to spill the beans, Michelle opened up about how she comes up with the designs for her biltong cakes. She walked us through the whole journey—from the very first spark of an idea to the stunning finished product that has everyone talking.
“When it comes to designing our biltong cakes, it’s all about understanding the person we are creating it for. When a customer approaches us, we start by discussing the occasion – whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or other celebration. We also ask about specific themes, colour schemes or any preferences they might have, and of course their budget. From there, we work our magic to create a unique design that fits their needs.
“Since every cake is custom-made, each one is truly one-of-a-kind. We love the challenge of creating something special and unique that the recipients will enjoy. Also, once the cake is complete, we beautifully wrap it in cellophane and finish it off with elegant ribboning, making it a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress,” said Michelle.
Breaking myths, one slice at a time
Every business has its hurdles, and Michelle’s journey with biltong cakes is no different. She opens up about her biggest challenge: convincing people that biltong can actually belong in a cake—and also shares how she handles the skeptics and traditionalists.
“The biggest challenge is actually a misconception about what our product is. People often think it’s biltong baked inside a traditional cake, but it’s actually a cake made entirely out of biltong and drywors, designed around a structure, to look like a cake. To overcome this, we are very upfront with our customers and make sure they totally understand what our biltong cakes are about. Once they see and taste it, they become fans,” said Michelle.
From fun idea to fan favourite
I also asked Michelle if there was a defining moment when she realised her biltong cakes could be more than just a fun idea—something people might actually fall in love with, and this is what she had to say:
“I don’t think I have had a single ‘aha’ moment, but rather a series of small moments that have reinforced the idea that our biltong cakes resonate with people and that they aren’t just a novelty but something people could genuinely love and enjoy.
“Just seeing people’s reactions and hearing their positive feedback and enthusiasm has been incredible. We have had customers come back to us and say that our biltong cakes were the highlight of their event, and that’s what makes it all worthwhile. That’s also what makes me believe we are creating something truly special and unique,” said Michelle.
Biltong Cakes: The gift you didn’t know you needed
As our chat with Michelle came to a close, I asked her where she sees her biltong cakes heading in the future. Is she hoping to start a whole new cake trend, or is this more about her personal passion for creating something truly unique? Here’s how she answered:
“We are excited to see our biltong cakes become a go-to gift for special occasions, or even as a starter snack with cheese and wine, or when watching sports games when friends and family come over.
“Plus, let’s be honest, women get spoiled with chocolate cakes and all sorts of treats, but what do you get for the man in your life? A biltong cake is the perfect gift – unique, unusual, and something that most men will love. It’s a game-changer!
“I don’t know many guys who don’t love biltong, but it’s a great way to show you care. Our biltong cakes are more than just a gift – they are an experience,” said Michelle.
Your cravings called — They want Biltong Cake
And now that Michelle has answered all your burning questions, how are we feeling? Shocked? Curious? Hungry, maybe?
Well, my job here is officially done!
If your heart (and stomach) are already screaming “yes, I need this in my life!” then don’t fight it. Go ahead — follow your cravings and reach out to Michelle using the contact details below to place your order:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17C4jFXFA3/
Michelle: 083 605 8844
Sari (Michelle’s partner): 078 779 9878
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