Jam and meringue cake
Jam and Meringue Cake: A Delicious Treat for Unforgettable Moments
Looking for a dessert that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones? The Jam and Meringue Cake is the perfect choice! This cake not only combines textures and flavors, but it is also a simple, quick recipe with a spectacular appearance. From the moment you gather your ingredients until your cake is ready to be enjoyed, I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 250 g margarine (or butter) at room temperature
- 1 cup of sugar (approximately 200 g)
- 5 egg yolks
- 1 whole egg
- 3 cups of flour (approximately 450 g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup of milk
For the meringue:
- 6 egg whites
- 10 tablespoons of sugar (approximately 150 g)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Juice of ½ lemon
For the filling:
- 250 g jam (preferably apricot or plum)
- 100 g roasted, crushed walnuts (optional)
Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure the margarine or butter is at room temperature by leaving it out the night before. This will make mixing easier and help achieve a fine texture. Also, prepare all the ingredients at hand to make the cooking process smoother.
2. Mixing the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, add the margarine (or butter) and sugar. Use a mixer to combine the mixture. Mix well for about 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes fluffy. Then, add the egg yolks and whole egg, continuing to mix until you achieve a homogeneous texture.
3. Combining the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. This step is important to ensure your cake rises evenly. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Don’t forget to add the lemon zest for an extra flavor boost. Stir well until you obtain a batter similar to that of a cake: smooth and creamy.
4. Preparing the baking tray: Line a 27 x 39 cm tray with baking paper, greasing it with a little margarine to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the tray, leveling it with a spatula.
5. Baking the layers: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and bake the layer for 15-20 minutes, until the batter turns lightly golden.
6. Preparing the meringue: While the layer is in the oven, you can prepare the meringue. Whip the egg whites in a clean bowl, gradually adding the sugar and vanilla sugar. Continue mixing until you achieve a firm meringue that forms peaks. Add the lemon juice and mix for a few seconds to incorporate.
7. Assembling the cake: Remove the layer from the oven and spread the chosen jam evenly over the surface. Sprinkle crushed roasted walnuts if desired for added texture. Then, cover with the meringue, spreading it evenly with a spatula or spoon.
8. Final baking: Place the tray back in the oven for another 15 minutes, until the meringue turns golden-brown. This step is essential to achieve that crunchy and tasty crust.
9. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting. It is delicious warm, but can also be enjoyed after it has cooled completely. You can sprinkle colored coconut or edible beads on top for a festive look.
Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of jam, such as raspberry, blackberry, or mixed berries, to vary the flavors of the cake.
- Use a quality mixer to achieve perfect meringue; the egg whites need to be whipped very well.
- Make sure the bowl you beat the egg whites in is completely clean and dry to achieve a stable meringue.
Nutritional benefits:
This cake contains ingredients that provide essential nutrients. Margarine or butter brings healthy fats, while the jam offers vitamins from fruits. However, it is good to know that the cake is rich in sugars and calories, so it is recommended in moderate portions.
Ideal combinations:
The Jam and Meringue Cake pairs perfectly with a cup of green tea or aromatic coffee. For an enhanced experience, a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside will transform the dessert into a true delicacy.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can the cake be frozen?
- Yes, you can freeze the cake, but it is recommended to do so before adding the meringue. Once defrosted, you can add the meringue and bake again.
2. What can I use instead of margarine?
- You can use butter or even coconut oil for a healthier option.
3. How can I make the meringue more flavorful?
- You can add almond or orange extract to the meringue for interesting flavors.
I invite you to try this Jam and Meringue Cake recipe and share your impressions with us. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, it will surely become a favorite in your family. Enjoy!
Ingredients: 6 eggs, 250 g margarine (butter), 1 cup sugar, 1 cup milk, 3 cups flour, 1 baking powder, 1 vanilla sugar, grated zest of 1 lemon, 100 g roasted crushed walnuts, 250 g jam, 10 tablespoons sugar, juice from 1/2 lemon.
