Why You’ll Love This Jam Cake Recipe
When you try this jam cake recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen. The moment you take a bite, the rich, moist texture and delightful burst of flavor will captivate your taste buds.
I love how the jam adds a sweet, fruity twist that perfectly complements the spices. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can use any jam you love!
It’s the perfect dessert for gatherings or a cozy night in. The aroma while it bakes fills the house with warmth and nostalgia.
Trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.
Ingredients of Jam Cake
When it comes to whipping up a delicious jam cake, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. This cake is a delightful medley of flavors and textures, and you probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry already.
It’s always a joy knowing that you can create something so tasty with just a few simple items. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to gather for this scrumptious treat.
Ingredients for Jam Cake
- 5 eggs
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 3 cups flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon clove
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 cup strawberry jam (or any jam you love)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Now, as you gather these ingredients, keep in mind that the type of jam you choose can really customize the flavor of your cake. Strawberry is a classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment with raspberry, apricot, or even something a little more adventurous like fig.
Just imagine the possibilities! Also, if you’re not a fan of nuts, feel free to skip them; they’re not essential, but they do add a nice crunch and a little more depth to the cake.
How to Make Jam Cake
Making a jam cake isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s an adventure in the kitchen filled with sweet aromas and the joy of creating something delicious. To start, grab 1 cup of softened butter and 2 cups of sugar. Cream them together until you have a fluffy, light mixture that practically begs to be licked off the spoon. Seriously, if you’re not sneaking a taste here, are you even baking?
Once that’s nice and airy, it’s time to add in 4 of the 5 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. You’ll want to make sure everything is well blended before moving on.
Now, let’s get a little scientific with our dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, sift together 3 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of clove, and 1 teaspoon of allspice. This is where the magic really starts to happen, as these spices will infuse your cake with warmth and depth.
Next, you’ll want to combine the dry mix with 1 cup of buttermilk, which we’ll also add soda to—yes, I know it sounds a bit odd, but trust me, it’s all part of the process. Once combined, mix in 1 cup of your chosen jam, the last egg, 1 cup of chopped nuts if you’re feeling nutty, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that lovely aromatic touch.
After everything is mixed together, it’s time for the grand finale. Grease an angel food cake pan generously and pour in your batter, smoothing it down with a spatula. Pop it into a preheated oven at 325°F and let it bake for 40 to 45 minutes.
Now, here’s the tricky part—resist the urge to open the oven door too soon. Nobody likes a sunken cake, and peeking can lead to that disaster. Instead, use a toothpick to check for doneness; if it comes out clean, you’re golden.
Once it’s done, let it cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack. And there you have it—a delightful jam cake, ready to be enjoyed. Just remember, the best part of baking is sharing, so don’t forget to save a slice or two for friends and family. Or, you know, just keep it all to yourself. No judgment here.
Jam Cake Substitutions & Variations
While baking a jam cake traditionally calls for specific ingredients, there’s plenty of room for creativity and substitutions.
For instance, if you don’t have buttermilk, regular milk or yogurt works just fine. You can swap out the strawberry jam for your favorite flavor, like raspberry or peach, to give it a unique twist.
Nuts aren’t essential, so feel free to leave them out or use chocolate chips instead. If you want a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour.
Experimenting with spices, like adding nutmeg or ginger, can also enhance the flavor. The possibilities are endless, so have fun!
What to Serve with Jam Cake
Although jam cake is delightful on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further.
I love serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that creamy contrast. Fresh berries also add a pop of color and freshness that complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce can enhance the sweetness.
For drinks, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a nice cup of tea pairs wonderfully, balancing the cake’s richness.
Trust me, these combinations make every bite even more enjoyable!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your jam cake turns out perfectly, I’ve gathered a few essential tips and notes to keep in mind.
Make certain your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar. Don’t skip sifting the flour and spices; it helps incorporate air for a lighter cake. If you’re using homemade jam, ascertain it’s smooth to prevent lumps.
For a moist texture, avoid overmixing once you add the wet ingredients. Always check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Finally, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy!