Plum Jam and Walnut Cake
Plum and walnut jam cake is a delicacy that combines the sweet and aromatic taste of jam with the crunchy texture of walnuts, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a party, a gathering with friends, or just a relaxing afternoon at home. Whether you are an experienced cook or an enthusiastic beginner, this cake will surely become a family favorite.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 12-15
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 600 g flour
- 1 package (250 g) butter, at room temperature
- 7 tablespoons sour cream
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 packet baking powder
- a pinch of salt
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 4 packets vanilla sugar
- grated zest of one orange
For the filling:
- 800 g plum jam
- 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 1 bowl of chopped walnuts
For brushing:
- 1 egg, beaten
Preparation:
1. Preparing the dough: Start by gathering all the ingredients for the dough. In a large bowl, add the soft butter, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Using a mixer or a spatula, mix until you get a creamy consistency. This will give the cake a fine and moist texture.
2. Add the yolks and sour cream: Incorporate the 6 egg yolks, sour cream, and grated orange zest. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous composition. The orange zest will provide a pleasant fragrance and a note of freshness to the cake.
3. Incorporate the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients mixture to the wet composition, mixing with a spatula until you obtain a dough that is easy to shape. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour.
4. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. Cover one part with plastic wrap and set it aside for now. The other part will be rolled out.
5. Baking the first sheet: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and, using a rolling pin, roll out the first part of the dough to fit the size of the tray. Place the sheet in the tray and bake in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes or until the dough turns lightly golden.
6. Preparing the filling: While the first sheet of dough is baking, prepare the filling. In a bowl, combine the plum jam, breadcrumbs, and chopped walnuts. Mix well to obtain a uniform composition. The breadcrumbs will help absorb the moisture from the jam, preventing the cake from becoming too wet.
7. Adding the filling: Remove the tray from the oven after 10 minutes and sprinkle a little breadcrumbs over the first sheet of dough. This step will create a barrier that will prevent the moisture from the jam from soaking into the dough. Then, evenly distribute the plum jam and walnut filling over the sheet of dough.
8. Creating the lattice: Roll out the second part of the dough and cut it into thin strips. Place the strips of dough over the filling in a lattice pattern. This will not only look beautiful but will also add a crunchy texture to the cake.
9. Brushing with egg: Beat an egg and brush the lattice of dough with it. This step will give the cake a beautiful golden color during baking.
10. Final baking: Place the tray back in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cake is golden and well-browned. I recommend checking the cake after 15 minutes to avoid burning.
11. Cooling and slicing: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tray for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut the cake into pieces and enjoy!
Nutritional benefits: This cake contains healthy ingredients, such as walnuts, which are rich in good fats, proteins, and antioxidants. The plum jam adds natural sweetness, while the sour cream contributes to the creaminess of the dough. Moreover, the orange zest not only adds flavor but also provides a boost of vitamin C.
Possible variations: You can experiment with different types of jam, such as apricot or raspberry jam, to achieve diverse flavors. Additionally, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for an extra warmth and depth of flavor.
Serving suggestions: The plum and walnut jam cake pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. If you want a festive touch, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top before serving.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use jam from other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with any type of jam you prefer.
2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough or opt for sugar-free jams.
3. Is the cake suitable for vegans?
You can replace the butter with plant-based margarine and use an egg substitute (such as banana puree or flaxseed) to make a vegan version.
So now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking and bring a little magic to your kitchen! This plum and walnut jam cake will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!
Ingredients: For the dough: 600 g flour, 1 package butter, 7 tablespoons sour cream, 6 egg yolks, 1 packet baking powder, a pinch of salt, 6 tablespoons sugar, 4 packets vanilla sugar, grated orange peel. For the filling: 800 g plum jam, 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs, 1 bowl of chopped nuts. For brushing: 1 egg.
