London cake

White sponge cake with jam and meringue icing with nuts

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings

Who doesn't love a fluffy cake that brings a smile to your face and fills the house with delicious aromas? The white sponge cake with jam and meringue icing with nuts is a classic recipe that can be adapted with various types of jam, turning each preparation into a new experience. This cake has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a popular choice for various occasions, whether it's holidays or simply an afternoon spent with loved ones.

Necessary ingredients:

For the base:
- 5 egg yolks
- 120 g sugar (about 6 full tablespoons)
- 1 pack of margarine (or butter, for a richer taste)
- 1 packet of baking powder dissolved in lemon juice
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 10 tablespoons of flour
- 70 ml milk (about half a cup)

For the middle layer:
- Strawberry jam (about one jar, but can be adjusted to taste)

For the top layer:
- 5 egg whites
- 250 g nuts (about 12 full tablespoons, chopped)
- 100 g sugar (about 5 tablespoons)
- Chocolate for grating (a few squares, optional)

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the oven and the tray:
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (medium heat). It is important to have the oven well heated to achieve a perfectly fluffy sponge. Grease a tray with margarine and sprinkle a little flour to prevent the cake from sticking.

2. Preparing the base:
In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sugar until you get a creamy mixture, light yellow in color. Add the melted margarine (or butter) and mix well. In another bowl, combine the baking powder with lemon juice, then add it to the egg yolk mixture and mix until fully incorporated. Add the vanilla sugar and mix again.

3. Incorporating dry ingredients:
Sifting the flour is an important step to ensure your cake will be airy and fluffy. Gradually add the flour while gently mixing with a spatula. Finally, add the milk and mix until you get a smooth batter.

4. Baking the base:
Pour the batter into the prepared tray and level the surface with a spatula. Place the tray in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the base turns golden and passes the toothpick test (the toothpick should come out clean).

5. Preparing the icing:
In the meantime, prepare the icing. Beat the egg whites with a mixer until fluffy. When the mixture starts to thicken, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a glossy meringue. Add the chopped nuts and gently fold in with a spatula, from the bottom of the bowl to the top, to keep it airy.

6. Assembling the cake:
When the base is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Spread a thin layer of jam over the warm base (you can use your favorite jam, from strawberries to raspberries or peaches, each variant will offer a distinct taste). Then, add the meringue icing with nuts and level it out.

7. Final baking:
Return the cake to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until the icing turns golden. Once done, you can grate a few squares of chocolate on top for added flavor.

8. Cooling and serving:
Let the cake cool completely in the tray, then cut it into servings and enjoy! It's perfect alongside a cup of tea or coffee, but also goes wonderfully with vanilla ice cream.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with various types of jam, such as cranberry or sour cherry, to achieve a cake with varied flavors.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth mixture.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the icing.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake contains ingredients that, when consumed in moderation, can provide nutritional benefits. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while fruit jam offers vitamins and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can try whole wheat flour for a healthier version, but the cake's texture will be denser.
- How can I store the cake? It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for a few days.

This white sponge cake with jam and meringue icing with nuts is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that can be enjoyed with family or friends. So, be creative and don't hesitate to experiment with new ingredients to turn each preparation into a delicious story! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the base: 5 egg yolks, 120 g sugar (or 6 heaping tablespoons), 1 pack of butter, 1 packet of baking powder dissolved in lemon juice, 1 packet of vanilla sugar, 10 tablespoons of flour, 70 ml milk (about a small cup). For the middle layer: Strawberry jam (less than one jar). For the top layer: 5 egg whites, 250 g walnuts (12 heaping tablespoons), 100 g sugar (5 tablespoons), chocolate for grating (a few squares).

 Tags:  london cake