Dessert cake with plum jam and meringue with nuts
Plum Jam and Walnut Meringue Cake: a delicious dessert that combines the sweetness of fruits with the airy texture of meringue, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for moments when you want to impress but without spending hours in the kitchen. Moreover, it is an easy-to-make dessert that will make you feel like a true baking master.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Number of servings: 12
Ingredients
For the base:
- 200 g soft butter (at room temperature)
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon rum essence
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For the filling:
- 1 jar of plum jam (or preserves)
- 6 egg whites
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 200 g ground walnuts
Recipe History
The Plum Jam and Walnut Meringue Cake is a dessert that evokes pleasant childhood memories, when grandmothers surprised us with delicious sweets made from simple ingredients but filled with love. This recipe has been passed down through generations, becoming a true treasure in families passionate about cooking. It is a perfect example of how humble ingredients can create a refined and flavorful dessert.
Step by Step
1. Preparing the base: Start by taking the butter out of the fridge and letting it reach room temperature. Then, in a large bowl, mix the soft butter with the powdered sugar until you get a creamy and fluffy mixture. This process will ensure a wonderful texture for the base.
2. Adding the egg yolks: Gradually add the egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is essential for incorporating air into the mixture. Then, add the lemon zest and rum essence, continuing to mix until all ingredients are well integrated.
3. Incorporating the flour: In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with the baking powder. Start gradually adding the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring with a spatula or mixing on low speed. You will achieve a dough with a consistency similar to thick cream. Don't worry, this is the desired texture!
4. Preparing the baking pan: Line a 23x33 cm baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the dough into the pan and level it evenly with a spatula. This step will ensure even baking.
5. Baking the base: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the base for 20 minutes, or until it becomes lightly golden.
6. Preparing the meringue: While the base is baking, you can prepare the meringue. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until they become frothy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a firm and glossy meringue. Finally, add the ground walnuts and gently fold them in.
7. Assembling the cake: After the base has cooled slightly, remove it from the oven and spread the plum jam evenly over the entire surface. Then, add the walnut meringue on top and level it gently.
8. Final baking: Reduce the oven temperature to 160 degrees Celsius and put the cake back in the oven for another 15 minutes. The meringue should become slightly golden and crispy on the outside.
9. Cooling and slicing: Once the cake is ready, let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut it into portions and, if desired, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a decorative effect and an extra touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious and simple, but you can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to add a contrast of textures and make the dessert even more decadent. A cup of aromatic coffee or herbal tea will perfectly complement this sweet moment.
Tips and Useful Advice
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This helps achieve a uniform consistency.
- If you want to diversify the recipe, you can replace the plum jam with other preserves, such as raspberry or apricot, to create a new flavor.
- For an extra crunchy note, you can add some coconut flakes to the meringue.
Nutritional Benefits
This Plum Jam and Walnut Meringue Cake offers a combination of nutrients. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and proteins, while plum jam adds fiber and antioxidants. Although it is a dessert, consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can experiment with ground almonds or pistachios to change the texture and flavor.
- How long can the cake be stored?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, covered with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
- How can I prevent the meringue from collapsing?
Make sure the egg whites are beaten well and that there are no traces of fat in the bowl. A small addition of lemon juice can help stabilize the meringue.
Now it's time to put on your apron and unleash your creativity in the kitchen! Prepare this Plum Jam and Walnut Meringue Cake and enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: Base: 200 g soft butter 100 g powdered sugar 6 egg yolks 1 tablespoon rum essence zest of 1 lemon 200 g white flour 1 pinch of baking powder Filling: 1 jar of plum jam (or preserve) 6 egg whites 100 g powdered sugar 200 g walnuts
