Upside Down Cake

The upside-down plum jam cake is a delicacy that combines the soft texture of the dough with the rich filling of nuts and the sweet-sour taste of the jam. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for any occasion, from gatherings with friends to family celebrations. Let's discover together how to prepare this nostalgic-flavored cake!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 400 g of flour
- 100 g of butter (at room temperature)
- 100 g of powdered sugar
- 1 egg (medium)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 4 tablespoons of sour cream (preferably high-fat)
- 200 g of plum jam (a tart jam is ideal for a pleasant contrast)

For the filling:
- 300 g of ground walnuts (freshly ground to preserve flavor)
- 8 eggs (medium)
- 200 g of granulated sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar or a drop of vanilla essence (for an extra flavor)

Step-by-step preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by mixing the flour with the butter in a large bowl. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until you achieve a sandy texture. Add the powdered sugar, baking powder, egg, and sour cream. Knead the dough until all ingredients are well incorporated. If the dough feels too sticky, you can add a tablespoon of flour. Divide the dough into two equal parts, form two balls, and let them rest for 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Rolling out the dough
On a well-floured work surface, roll out each ball of dough with a rolling pin. Aim to achieve a sheet about 5 mm thick. Be careful not to use too much flour to avoid affecting the final texture of the cake.

Step 3: Assembling the cake
Grease a baking tray with oil and dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Place the first sheet of dough in the tray, then spread a generous layer of plum jam over the entire surface of the sheet. The tart jam will add a note of freshness.

Step 4: Preparing the filling
Separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with the granulated sugar, adding it tablespoon by tablespoon, until the mixture becomes firm and glossy. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy filling. Add the yolks, ground walnuts, and vanilla sugar, gently folding with a spatula from the bottom up to avoid losing air from the egg whites.

Step 5: Finishing and baking
Pour the walnut filling over the jam in the tray and cover with the second sheet of dough. Before placing the cake in the oven, pierce the surface with a fork in several places to allow steam to escape during baking. Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 40 minutes, or until the cake turns slightly golden on top.

Step 6: Cooling and serving
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray for 15 minutes. Then, carefully turn the cake onto a platter, ensuring the jam layer is visible. Cut into squares or triangles and dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look. This cake is usually served with a cup of tea or coffee, but it also pairs wonderfully with a glass of sweet wine.

Practical tips:
- Choose a quality plum jam, preferably homemade, for an authentic taste.
- Walnuts can be replaced with almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.
- If you desire a more intense vanilla flavor, feel free to add a few extra drops of essence.
- The cake keeps well in the refrigerator, and it’s even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake contains walnuts, which are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Additionally, the plum jam provides antioxidants and essential vitamins. However, considering the sugar and butter content, it’s best enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of jam?
Yes, any tart fruit jam can be used, such as apricot or raspberry jam.
2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use a jam with less sugar.
3. Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

This upside-down plum jam cake is a classic dessert that blends tradition with modern flavors. Regardless of the occasion, it will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share the joy of cooking with those around you!

 Ingredients: FOR THE DOUGH: 400 g flour 100 g butter 100 g powdered sugar 1 egg 1 packet of baking powder 4 tablespoons sour cream 200 g plum jam FOR THE FILLING: 300 g ground walnuts 8 eggs 200 g granulated sugar 1 packet of vanilla sugar or 1 vanilla essence