Delicious and Easy Jam Cake Recipe for Dessert Lovers
Get ready to experience a burst of flavors with this delicious Grandma’s Jam Cake Recipe. This traditional dessert is a classic favorite that has been passed down in my family for generations. It’s never been easier to indulge your sweet tooth, and satisfy your craving for a homemade treat with this exquisite jam cake recipe.
Growing up, my grandma would make this every fall using fresh blackberry jam made from the bushes in her backyard. The warm spices complimented the sweetness in the jam, and it quickly became one of our family’s most cherished and beloved desserts. The aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice wafting through the house was enough to make our mouths water as we eagerly awaited one of her delicious creations.
The ingredients for this cake are simple yet so flavorful; you can taste the love and thoughtfulness that went into it. With a perfect balance between sweetness and spiciness, this cake will definitely be your go-to dessert for every occasion. Pair it with a strong black coffee, and powder sugar dusted on top for the ultimate indulgence.
So why not try your hand at baking this quintessential southern gem? Let’s take a walk down memory lane and indulge in the goodness that Grandma’s Jam Cake Recipe can bring. When you take that first bite, you’ll be transported back to a simpler time where love and food were one in the same.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you in search of a cake recipe that has the perfect balance of rich, sweet flavor and indulgent, moist texture? Look no further than Grandma’s Jam Cake Recipe. This southern classic has been handed down through generations and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering – from family dinners to potluck parties.
One reason why you’ll love this recipe is for its unique use of blackberry jam. It adds a burst of fruity flavor to the cake that perfectly complements the warm spices of ginger, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The jam also adds moisture to the cake, giving it a lovely texture without making it overly dense.
Another reason why this recipe is a standout is for its flexibility. You can use store-bought jam or even switch it up with different flavors like strawberry or Kentucky blackberry. You can also choose to make it into a layer cake or keep it simple as a single layer. With so many options, you can customize the recipe to your liking and create your own take on this classic.
If you’re still not sold on Grandma’s Jam Cake Recipe yet, consider this: it’s simple to make and calls for ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The result is a delicious homemade cake that tastes like it took hours of effort to create. Plus, you’ll impress everyone who tries it with your secret ingredient – blackberry jam!
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a delectable dessert option that’s both unique and easy-to-make, give Grandma’s Jam Cake Recipe a try. With its rich flavor profile, moist texture, and adaptable ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home just as it has been for generations in Southern kitchens.
Ingredient List
Here is the list of all the ingredients you will need to whip up a perfect grandma jam cake in no time. This recipe requires a few pantry staples like flour, sugar, baking soda, and some flavor-packed spices that deliver an aromatic and heart-warming explosion in your mouth. So, let’s get ready to build the ultimate jammy masterpiece with these basic ingredients on hand.
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 cups of white sugar
- 1 cup of butter plus extra for greasing the cake pans (softened)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups of blackberry jam (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tsp of vanilla extract
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 2 cups of strong black coffee, cooled
Dry Ingredients:
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tsp of baking soda
- 1 tbsp of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp of ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp of ground allspice
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
That’s it! Just set aside some raisins or chocolate chips if you want to incorporate them into your recipe. These wholesome ingredients are enough to create a moist, tender texture that blends perfectly with any jam filling – be it strawberry, raspberry or Grandma’s Tennessee Jam. So gather everything you need and let’s bake!
The Recipe How-To
Now comes the fun part, where we finally get to make this delicious Grandma’s Jam Cake! Before we begin, make sure you gather all the ingredients listed in section 3 above.
Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350 F (175 C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans or one 13×9 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl cream together 1 cup (225 g) of butter and 2 cups (400 g) of granulated white sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each.
- In another bowl, sift together 3 cups (375 g) of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of allspice, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and half a teaspoon of nutmeg.
- Add the dry mixture into the creamed mixture, alternating with 2 cups (480 ml) of buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
- Stir in 2 cups (400 g) of blackberry jam and a handful of chopped walnuts.
- Pour batter evenly into prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely before frosting.
Note: If using a 13×9 inch baking pan, increase the baking time to 35-40 minutes.
Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end! Give yourself a pat on your back as you admire your masterpiece before slicing and serving!
Substitutions and Variations
A recipe is not just set in stone, dear baker. Sometimes it might be necessary or even fun to challenge it by creating some variations or substitutions. Most of them will go unnoticed or will enhance the flavor profile of your favorite desserts.
For Grandma’s Jam Cake Recipe, there are a few ideas you might want to try. Firstly, and the easiest one, is to replace the blackberry jam with your favorite jam. You can use strawberry jam or Southern-style peach preserves instead of the Kentucky Blackberry Jam. Want a more decadent approach? Why not add some chocolate ganache to the mix and create a ribbon cake that will leave everyone in awe?
Additionally, you can tweak the recipe by choosing different types of frosting or topping. Prep your cake with cream cheese frosting instead of caramel. Or, switch things up by simply sprinkling powdered sugar on top of the cake for a lighter taste.
Do you love spice cakes? No problem! You can add 1/2 teaspoon of cloves and 1/3 cup crystallized ginger to give your Grandma’s Jam Cake a spicy twist. Another option is to turn this recipe into a layer cake by spreading jam between layers and top up with fresh berries.
Lastly, for all those who prefer gluten-free desserts, swap regular flour for an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that this substitution may lead to denser cakes, so we recommend adding an additional egg to lighten it up.
The variations are endless but remember, grandma’s recipe is a delicate balance of flavors and textures that make this dessert irresistible. Don’t go too wild!
Serving and Pairing
There’s no better way to enjoy Grandma’s Jam Cake than with a steaming cup of strong black coffee. The rich sweetness of the cake perfectly complements the bitterness of the coffee, making for a sensational taste bud experience.
Even if you’re not a coffee drinker, this cake can be paired with a variety of beverages such as milk, tea or hot chocolate. Alternatively, you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch of decadence.
When it comes to serving size, this recipe is perfect for making a single layered round cake that can be sliced into 10-12 pieces. You may also choose to make it into cupcakes for individual portions, ideal for sharing.
For something even more special, try layering two cakes with your choice of frosting and additional jam filling in between the layers. This will produce an impressive and delicious dessert suitable for any celebration.
This cake is best served at room temperature after being chilled in the refrigerator overnight. It is recommended to allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before serving to help bring out its flavors and aroma.
Grandma’s Jam Cake is perfect for any occasion: from tea parties to birthdays, weddings or even as an indulgent treat on a lazy day at home. It’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth craving and leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about Grandma’s Jam Cake Recipe is that it gets better with time. It is perfect for making ahead because the flavors will meld together and become richer over time. It is a cake that can be stored and reheated without losing any of its original texture or taste.
To make ahead, let the cake cool completely before wrapping it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it at room temperature in an air-tight container for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, place it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
When reheating, place the entire cake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can heat individual slices in the microwave at a low power setting for 10-15 seconds.
If you have leftover frosting, it can also be stored separately in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Bring it to room temperature before spreading onto the cake.
Overall, this cake is a great make-ahead dessert that is ideal for special occasions or when you just need something sweet on hand. The longer this cake sits, the better it gets. So go ahead and make it in advance – you won’t be disappointed!
Tips for Perfect Results
As someone who has grown up eating my grandma’s jam cake regularly, I’ve enjoyed it in all its forms – freshly baked, stored in the refrigerator for a few days, or reheated. Over the years, I have picked up a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve perfect results every time you make this delicious cake. So let me share them with you.
First and foremost, ensure that all of your ingredients are at room temperature before you start baking. This will allow them to mix and blend together evenly. It is especially important if you are using butter as it will cream better at room temperature.
Sift the dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, spices, and cocoa powder together before adding them to the batter. This step will remove any lumps and ensure a smooth texture in the final product.
When mixing the batter, do not overmix it as it can lead to a dense cake. Mix until everything is just combined.
Once you add the blackberry jam to the batter, use a rubber spatula to fold it in gently without overmixing. Overstirring can knock out air, making the cake denser.
To ensure even baking throughout, rotate your pan halfway through baking or get an oven thermometer to confirm that your oven temperature is accurate.
Wait until your cake has completely cooled before frosting. If you add frosting to a warm cake, it can melt and ruin your hard work!
Final advice: Do not rush! Take your time following each step of this recipe carefully. Baking is a science that requires patience and accuracy to get perfect results. Trust me; good things come to those who wait.
By following these tips with precision- from starting with room temperature ingredients to patiently waiting for your cake to cool down- you’ll end up with a moist and flavorsome old-fashioned grandma’s jam cake that everyone will enjoy.
FAQ
As a diligent baker, you will surely have questions about different ingredients, measurements, and techniques to make sure Grandma’s Jam Cake comes out perfectly. Here are some frequently asked questions we’ve compiled to help you understand better what it takes to bake this delicious cake. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s get started!
Can I use store bought jam for cake filling?
Choosing the right jam for your cake is a fun and creative decision. Fortunately, you have plenty of options to choose from. Personally, I like to mix things up and use different types of homemade jams I have on hand. However, for this particular recipe, I decided to take the convenient route and use a store-bought jam. Specifically, I opted for a classic Smucker’s strawberry jam. Remember, the choice of jam is up to you, so feel free to use your favourite flavour or experiment with different combinations.
Can I put jam in cake batter?
One can enjoy the delicious and creamy flavor of Country Crock in this easy-to-make Berry Swirl Butter Cake recipe. By incorporating your favorite jam into the batter, you not only add more flavor but also make the cake look presentable and sophisticated.
How do you put jam in between cake layers?
To assemble a layered cake, first, take the second cake layer and flip it over onto a cutting board or another plate. Then, spread a generous amount of jam over the bottom side of the cake until it is evenly coated. Gently place the layer with the jam over the frosted part of the bottom cake layer. This way, both the frosting and jam will be evenly distributed between the two layers. Make sure to handle the cake with care to avoid any mishaps.
Can I use jam instead of sugar in a cake?
Jam is a versatile ingredient that can replace sugar in many recipes, as it is primarily made of fruit and sugar.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Grandma’s Jam Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. This old-fashioned Recipe is an excellent choice for special occasions or when you need a comforting treat. The perfect combination of the rich flavor of blackberry jam and the warm spices’ aroma make this cake irresistible.
By following these simple instructions, using high-quality ingredients, and tips for perfect results, you can easily bake a delicious cake without any hassle. You’ll love how easy it is to make, how moist and flavorful it tastes, and how well it pairs with a strong black coffee or tea.
Moreover, this recipe allows for many substitutions and variations, making it versatile for your preferences. Whether you prefer strawberry jam or southern jam, you can easily substitute them in this recipe.
So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and try Grandma’s Jam Cake Recipe today. Share this classic recipe with others and create new memories with this timeless dessert. You won’t regret making this cake; it’s simply divine!
Grandma’s Jam Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Cake
- 1/2 cup lard (optional)
- 1/2 cup fresh butter
- 1/2 cup shortening (instead of the lard)
- 2 cups white sugar
- 2 large eggs or 3 small eggs
- 4 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup seeded blackberry jam
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Icing
- 6 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 6 tablespoons strong black coffee
- 6 tablespoons softened butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Cake:.
- In the original recipe, my grandmother starts out by insisting that this be mixed BY HAND with a wooden spoon for 500 strokes. The mixer works fine. The original recipe was written for half lard and half butter (fresh churned), but in the letter my grandmother mentioned that she had started using shortening instead of the lard.
- Cream shortening and sugars.
- Add eggs, jam, and vanilla. Mix well.
- Sift all dry ingredients and add to the creamed sugar mixture. Mix well.
- Add buttermilk and nuts and mix by hand.
- This makes 3 round layers of a 8 or 9 inch layer cake. Bake 350 for 30 minutes or until done. Allow layers to cool before frosting.
- Icing:.
- For the frosting, my grandmother's original instructions called for using the leftover coffee that had been sitting on the stove all day keeping warm. I find that making up a cup of coffee with espresso powder works well. You do want a strong mocha flavor for the icing.
- Mix all the icing ingredients using a mixer. It will be a stiff icing.
- Making layer cakes must have been common back in the early 50s, because my grandmother didn't even bother to write down instructions for making icing or assembling the cake. She just listed the ingredients and how to make stong coffee. Needless to say, assemble like any other layer cake.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Steven is a chef by heritage, so it’s no wonder why baking is such a big part of who he is. To share his passion for all things sweet, he created cookiesncrepes.com. It’s the perfect platform to indulge in delicious treats, all with a sprinkle of his signature flare.