Tender cake with strawberry jam
Tender Cake with Strawberry Jam
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12
Who doesn't love a tender and aromatic cake that reminds you of childhood? This strawberry jam cake recipe is a treasure from an old cookbook, reminding us of the simplicity and refinement of flavors from yesteryear. In an era where sophisticated ingredients are the norm, this cake enchants us with its rustic charm and the natural flavors of berries. Get ready for a memorable culinary experience!
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 7 egg yolks
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar (200 ml cup)
- 1 packet of ammonia + 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- A pinch of salt
- Sugar and vanilla essence (to taste)
- Flour as needed
For the filling:
- 1 jar of strawberry jam (or marmalade, according to the original recipe)
- 1 cup ground walnuts
For brushing:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
For decoration:
- 100 g chocolate
Preparation Technique
Step 1: Preparing the dough
1. In a large bowl, add the melted butter and powdered sugar. Cream them well with a spatula or mixer until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. This is when the flavors combine, and the sugar dissolves completely.
2. Add the egg yolks one by one, mixing constantly. Each yolk must be fully incorporated before adding the next. This step is essential for achieving a light and soft dough.
3. In a small bowl, mix the ammonia with the lemon juice until dissolved. Add this mixture to the bowl with butter and sugar, along with a pinch of salt and vanilla essence. Mix well.
4. Start adding flour gradually until you obtain a dough of appropriate firmness. It is important not to overdo it with the flour, or your cake will become too dense. In the end, you should have an elastic and easy-to-shape dough.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes. This will allow the gluten in the flour to relax, making it easier to roll out the sheets.
Step 2: Forming the sheets
1. After the dough has rested, divide it into four equal parts. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each part of the dough into thick sheets of about 1 cm. Use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness.
2. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. This is the perfect time to prepare your cake pan.
3. Place the first sheet in the cake pan, generously spread it with strawberry jam, then sprinkle with ground walnuts. This combination will give the cake a rich flavor and a crunchy texture.
4. Place the second sheet over the filling and repeat the process with jam and walnuts. Continue alternating the sheets, finishing with the last sheet.
Step 3: Preparing for baking
1. In a small bowl, beat the remaining egg yolk with the sour cream. Use this mixture to brush the last sheet of dough, ensuring it will brown nicely during baking.
2. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the cake is golden and fluffy. Delicious aromas will fill your kitchen, and your patience will be rewarded!
Step 4: Decorating
1. While the cake cools, melt the chocolate in a small bowl over a double boiler or in the microwave. Make sure not to overheat it, as it can burn.
2. Once the cake has completely cooled, pour the melted chocolate over it. Let it set for a few minutes to harden slightly before cutting.
3. Cut the cake into servings and serve it with a glass of fresh milk or a cup of fragrant tea. It’s a perfect combination that will delight anyone.
Tips and Recommendations
- Choosing the jam: You can experiment with different types of jam or marmalade, such as peach or cherry, to achieve varied flavors.
- Nuts: If you don’t have walnuts, you can use ground almonds or hazelnuts for a different taste.
- Vegan option: For a vegan cake, replace the butter with plant-based margarine and the egg yolks with a mixture of flaxseeds and water.
Nutritional Benefits
This strawberry jam cake is not only delicious but also a source of nutrients. Whole grain flour can add fiber, and nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for the heart. Strawberry jam adds a boost of antioxidants and vitamins.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the result may vary depending on the type chosen.
2. How can I store the cake? The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for a few days. You can also freeze it to enjoy later.
3. Can the cake be made without sugar? Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like stevia or honey, but you may need to adjust the amount of flour.
This tender cake with strawberry jam is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings with friends. Filled with memories and flavors, it’s more than just a recipe - it’s an experience that brings joy and comfort in every slice. Enjoy it with loved ones and savor every moment!
Ingredients: 7 egg yolks, 3/4 cup powdered sugar (200 ml cup), 1 packet of ammonia + 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice, 1/2 cup melted butter, salt, sugar, and vanilla essence, flour as needed. Filling: jam (I used strawberry, but the original recipe called for marmalade), 1 cup ground walnuts. For greasing: 1 egg yolk, 1 tablespoon sour cream. Decoration: 100 g chocolate.
