Parisian Slices Cake

Apricot Jam and Meringue Cake

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Welcome to the world of desserts! Today, I will present to you a delicious and nostalgic recipe: apricot jam and meringue cake. This cake is a favorite in many families, having a balanced taste between sweet and tangy, thanks to the apricot jam, and an airy texture due to the light meringue. It is the perfect dessert to conclude a festive meal or simply to indulge yourself on an ordinary day.

A brief history

The apricot jam cake does not have a specific origin; rather, it is a traditional recipe passed down through generations. Each family has its own version, but the central element always remains the apricot jam. This cake often brings loved ones together around the table, evoking pleasant memories and unforgettable moments.

Ingredients

For the base:
- 6 egg yolks
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g soft butter (at room temperature)
- 250 g flour
- 1 packet of vanilla or the grated zest of one lemon

For the filling:
- 1 jar of apricot jam (approximately 400 g)
- Juice from 1 orange (can be replaced with lemon juice for a tangier taste)

For the meringue:
- 6 egg whites
- 150-200 g sugar (depending on how sweet you want the meringue)
- 200 g ground nuts

Necessary utensils

- Baking tray (preferably 30x40 cm)
- Mixer or whisk
- Pastry spatula
- Mixing bowls
- Baking paper (optional, for easier cleanup)

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the base

1. Beating the egg yolks with sugar: In a large bowl, add the egg yolks and sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together at medium speed until the mixture becomes light in color and fluffy. This will take about 5-7 minutes.

2. Adding the butter: Add the soft butter to the egg yolk mixture and continue mixing until fully incorporated.

3. Incorporating the flour and vanilla: Sift the flour into the bowl in two batches, gently mixing with a spatula so as not to lose the air in the mixture. Finally, add the vanilla or grated lemon zest for an extra flavor.

4. Pouring into the tray: Grease the baking tray with a little oil and dust it with flour. Carefully pour the base mixture into the tray, leveling it with the pastry spatula.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. Preparing the jam: In a small bowl, mix the apricot jam with the orange juice. This will add a fresh note and help the jam spread more easily on the base.

2. Spreading the jam: Evenly spread the jam over the surface of the base, ensuring it is distributed evenly.

Step 3: Preparing the meringue

1. Beating the egg whites: In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed until foamy. Then, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until the meringue becomes shiny and forms stiff peaks.

2. Incorporating the nuts: With a spatula, gently fold the ground nuts into the meringue, being careful not to lose volume.

3. Pouring the meringue: Pour the meringue evenly over the layer of jam, leveling it with the spatula and ensuring it reaches the corners of the tray.

Step 4: Baking

1. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Start with moderate heat for the first 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 160°C.

2. Baking: Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes or until the meringue turns slightly golden and passes the toothpick test (inserting a toothpick in the center should come out clean).

3. Cooling: Remove the tray from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature before slicing.

Useful tips

- Choose quality jam: A high-quality apricot jam will make a difference in the final taste of the cake. You can use homemade jam if you have it for an authentic taste.

- Experiment with nuts: If you want to vary, you can replace the ground nuts with almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor.

- Serving: This cake is delicious both plain and with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. It can also be served with a fragrant tea or coffee.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of cake contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It provides a quick source of energy due to the sugars in the jam and the healthy fats from the ground nuts. Additionally, apricot jam contains essential vitamins such as vitamins A and C, which support the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of jam?
Of course! This recipe works great with other types of jams, such as cherry or blackberry.

- How can I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can refrigerate it if you want to keep it longer, but it is best consumed fresh.

- Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake, but the meringue may become soggy after thawing. I recommend consuming it fresh to maintain its airy texture.

This apricot jam and meringue cake is not just a simple and quick recipe, but also a wonderful way to bring joy to your loved ones. Cook with love and share the joy of this delicacy with those dear to you!

 Ingredients: Base: 6 egg yolks, 200 g sugar, 200 g soft butter, 250 g flour, vanilla/lemon zest. Filling: 1 jar apricot jam, juice from 1 orange. Meringue: 6 egg whites, 150-200 g sugar, 200 g ground walnuts.

 Tags:  cake apricot jam meringue parisian slices dessert cake