Nut and Jam Cake - Morning Cake

Morning Cake - Nut and Jam Cake

Welcome to the flavorful and aromatic world of cakes! Today, I’m excited to share with you the recipe for a cake that brings joy with every bite: the Morning Cake, a perfect blend of nuts and jam, ideal for breakfast or as a dessert alongside a cup of coffee. This is a quick and simple dessert to prepare, yet with such an intense flavor that it will surely become a family favorite.

Recipe History

The nut and jam cake is a classic combination of ingredients that has been cherished over time. Nuts, rich in nutrients and with a deep flavor, have been used in various cultures as a symbol of prosperity and health. The jam, on the other hand, adds a touch of sweetness and aroma, making this cake suitable not only for breakfast but also for special occasions.

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

- 3 medium-sized eggs
- 13 tablespoons of sugar
- 13 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil for a neutral taste)
- 18 tablespoons of flour
- 13 tablespoons of milk (or plant-based milk for a lactose-free version)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract (for an intense vanilla flavor)
- 1 cup of ground nuts
- 200 g of jam (choose your favorite flavor: sour cherries, rose hips, or apricots work excellently)

Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Ensure the nuts are fresh, as a rancid taste can affect the entire dish. It’s also good to have all ingredients at room temperature for an even cake.

2. Beating the eggs: In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue to beat until the mixture becomes frothy and the sugar is completely dissolved.

3. Adding the oil: Gradually add the oil to the egg and sugar mixture while continuing to mix. The oil will add moisture to the cake, making it soft and fluffy.

4. Incorporating dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add this combination to the egg mixture, stirring with a spatula or using the mixer on low speed to avoid lumps.

5. Adding milk and extracts: Add the milk and vanilla extracts to the mixture, stirring well. Ensure there are no lumps and that the batter is smooth.

6. Preparing the baking pan: Grease a baking pan with oil and flour or use parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for ensuring an easy release of the cake from the pan.

7. First layer: Pour 3/4 of the cake batter into the pan, smoothing the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 170 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes. This first layer will form a perfect base for our delicious filling.

8. Preparing the filling: Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, combine the ground nuts with the jam and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix well until you achieve a creamy consistency. If you prefer a stronger nut flavor, add a bit more ground nuts.

9. Adding the filling: After 15 minutes of baking, remove the pan from the oven. Pour the nut and jam mixture over the cake layer, ensuring that the entire surface is evenly covered.

10. Completing the baking: Pour the remaining cake batter over the filling, covering all the corners well. Return the pan to the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Perform the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Remember, if the toothpick has a bit of jam on it, that’s normal.

11. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut the cake into squares and enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s perfect for breakfast but also makes a great snack between meals.

Practical Tips

- Jam varieties: Experiment with different types of jam. Sour cherry jam adds a tart note, while apricot jam offers a pleasant sweetness.
- Alternative nuts: If you don’t have nuts on hand, you can use ground almonds or pistachios for an interesting twist.
- Creative serving: The cake can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a special dessert.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is rich in nuts, which are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins. It also contains protein from the eggs and carbohydrates from the flour, making it a balanced choice for an energizing breakfast.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use olive oil instead of sunflower oil? Yes, but keep in mind that olive oil may add a distinct flavor to the cake.
- How can I store the cake? Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
- Can I freeze the cake? Yes, the cake can be frozen, but make sure it is well wrapped to prevent drying out.

Pairing Recommendations

This cake pairs wonderfully with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a fragrant tea. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or chocolate sauce would add an extra layer of flavor.

In conclusion, the Morning Cake is a simple yet flavorful dessert that can be customized to suit your preferences. I hope you feel inspired to try it and share it with your loved ones! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 3 eggs, 13 tablespoons of sugar, 13 tablespoons of oil, 18 tablespoons of flour, 13 tablespoons of milk, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 cup of ground walnuts, 200 g of jam (any flavor)