Greta Garbo cake with apricot jam (Jerbo)

Greta Garbo Cake with Apricot Jam (Jerbo)

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 slices

If you are looking for a dessert that impresses both in taste and appearance, the Greta Garbo cake, also known as Jerbo, is the perfect choice. This delight with apricot jam and chocolate glaze has a rich history and an unmistakable flavor, being a favorite in many households. Its sweet-and-sour taste, combined with a fluffy texture, makes it ideal for any festive occasion or simply to treat your family.

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 200g butter (make sure it is at room temperature for easy incorporation)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 whole egg
- 1 yolk
- 1 packet baking powder
- A pinch of baking soda
- 1 packet vanilla (or vanilla essence, as preferred)
- 400g flour
- 1-2 tablespoons sour cream (optional, for a softer dough)

For the filling:
- Apricot jam (about 300-400g, but you can adjust according to preference)
- 100g chopped nuts (optional, for added texture)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional, to sweeten the jam)

For the glaze:
- 3 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 50g butter

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add the soft butter and powdered sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to mix well until you achieve a creamy consistency. This step is essential to incorporate the air needed for a fluffy cake.

2. Adding the eggs:
Add the whole egg and yolk, continuing to mix. It is important that the eggs are at room temperature for even incorporation into the dough.

3. Including the dry ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream if you decide to use it. Knead until you get a homogeneous dough, but do not over-knead.

4. Dividing the dough:
Divide the dough into three equal parts. This will facilitate layering the cake with apricot jam.

5. Preparing the pan:
Grease a baking tray with butter and dust it with flour to prevent the cake from sticking. This is an important step to ensure a perfect appearance of the cake after baking.

6. Assembling the cake:
Place the first layer of dough in the tray, then spread an even layer of apricot jam mixed with nuts and sugar (if using). Cover with the second layer of dough and repeat the process with jam and nuts. Finish with the last layer of dough.

7. Rising:
Let the cake rise in the tray for about 15-20 minutes. This step helps develop the texture.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown on the edges and passes the toothpick test (when the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is ready).

9. Preparing the glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, cocoa, and butter. Place over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sugar and butter dissolve completely and the mixture becomes homogeneous. Let it boil for a minute, then remove from heat.

10. Glazing:
Once the cake has completely cooled, pour the chocolate glaze over it, ensuring it is evenly covered. Allow the glaze to set before cutting the cake into slices.

11. Serving:
The Greta Garbo cake is served sliced, ideally alongside a cup of tea or coffee. It is a versatile dessert suitable for any occasion, from gatherings with friends to family celebrations.

Tips and useful advice:
- If you do not have apricot jam, you can experiment with other types of jam, such as peach or plum, to create personalized variations of this dessert.
- Adding nuts to the filling is not mandatory, but it provides an extra texture and flavor. You can use pecans or hazelnuts, depending on your preference.
- Make sure the cake cools completely before adding the glaze; otherwise, it will melt and not have the desired appearance.
- Try serving the cake with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious contrast between warm and cold.

Nutritional benefits:
The Greta Garbo cake, although a dessert, can be enjoyed in moderation. The butter provides healthy fats, and the apricot jam offers vitamins and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet. However, regular consumption of sweets should be accompanied by a varied diet and physical activity.

This recipe is not just a way to indulge your taste buds but also an opportunity to create memories with loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a celebration or simply to enjoy a sweet moment, the Greta Garbo cake is the ideal choice. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 200 g butter, 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 whole egg, 1 yolk, baking powder, a pinch of baking soda and vanilla, 400 g flour, 1-2 tablespoons sour cream (optional), apricot jam mixed with sugar, chocolate glaze.

 Tags:  walnut cake jam cake cake