Jam cake

Delicious Plum Jam and Walnut Cake - A Simple and Refined Recipe

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

When it comes to desserts, few recipes manage to combine simplicity with elegance like this plum jam and walnut cake. With a fluffy base, a delicious jam filling, and a crunchy walnut meringue layer, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from a tea with friends to a festive family meal. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Necessary ingredients:

- 200 g butter (at room temperature for easier mixing)
- 100 g white sugar
- 1 tablespoon flavored sugar (preferably with lemon powder for a fresh taste)
- 200 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 6 egg yolks
- 1 jar of plum jam (approximately 300 g)
- 6 egg whites
- 100 g sugar (for meringue)
- 200 g ground walnuts

Useful tips for ingredients:

1. Butter: Make sure the butter is soft, not melted. If you don’t have time to leave it at room temperature, you can cut it into cubes and microwave it on low power for 10-15 minutes.
2. Flavored sugar: If you don’t have flavored sugar, you can add a few drops of lemon essence to the mixture to achieve a similar taste.
3. Flour: Choose a high-quality flour so that the base comes out fluffy.
4. Walnuts: You can use walnuts, almonds, or ground hazelnuts, depending on your preferences. Each variant will add a distinct flavor.

Step by step: Preparing the cake

1. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Make sure it is fully heated before putting the cake in for even baking.

2. Preparing the base mixture: In a large bowl, mix the soft butter with the sugar and flavored sugar using an electric mixer. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes fluffy and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Adding the yolks: Incorporate the yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is essential for achieving an airy texture.

4. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and a pinch of salt. Sift the mixture and gradually add it to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until everything is well integrated.

5. Preparing the meringue: In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until stiff peaks form. Add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, mixing continuously until you obtain a glossy and dense foam. This meringue will give the cake a crunchy texture, a pleasant contrast to the fluffy base.

6. Incorporating the walnuts: Add the ground walnuts to the meringue, gently folding with a spatula to avoid losing air from the mixture.

7. Assembling the cake: Line a 25x35 cm baking tray with parchment paper. Pour the base mixture into the tray and level it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the base is lightly golden.

8. Adding the jam: Remove the tray from the oven and spread the plum jam over the warm base, leveling it evenly.

9. Applying the walnut meringue: Pour the walnut mixture over the jam, leveling again with the spatula. Place the cake back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, until the meringue becomes golden and crunchy.

10. Cooling and slicing: Allow the cake to cool in the tray, then cut it into portions as desired. This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a warm dessert, but also a delicious cake served cold.

Serving suggestions:

This plum jam and walnut cake pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or a flavored coffee. You can add a teaspoon of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious contrast.

Nutritional benefits:

The cake offers a balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats from walnuts, and proteins from eggs. Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, and the plum jam brings a note of natural sweetness, being rich in antioxidants. Of course, like any dessert, it should be consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:

- *Can I use another type of jam?* Yes, you can experiment with apricot, raspberry, or even cherry jam. Each will give a different taste to your cake.
- *How can I store the cake?* It keeps well sealed in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
- *Can it be frozen?* Yes, this cake can be frozen. Slice it and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer container.

Possible variations:

- *Add spices*: A teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a special flavor.
- *Incorporate chocolate*: You can add dark chocolate chunks to the meringue for a decadent touch.
- *Transform into a fresh fruit cake*: Replace the jam with slices of apple or pear for a fresh and healthy version.

The plum jam and walnut cake is more than just a simple dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and flavor in every bite. Prepare it with love and bring a touch of flavor to your meals!

 Ingredients: 200 g butter, 100 g sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon-flavored powdered sugar, 200 g flour, 1 baking powder, 6 egg yolks + 1 jar of plum jam (300 g) + 6 egg whites, 100 g sugar, 200 g ground walnuts

 Tags:  jam cake fruit cake