Indulge in the delightful simplicity of this Airy Apricot Jam Cake, a perfect blend of light, fluffy sponge and the sweet tang of apricot jam. This quick and easy recipe is ideal for any occasion—whether it’s an afternoon tea, a family gathering, or just a special treat to brighten your day. With budget-friendly ingredients and an elegant presentation, this cake is sure to impress without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients:
- Eggs: 2
- Sugar: 50 grams (4 tablespoons)
- Vanilla Sugar: 8 grams
- Milk: 50 ml (5 tablespoons)
- Vegetable Oil: 50 ml (8 tablespoons)
- Wheat Flour: 110 grams (5 rounded tablespoons)
- Baking Powder: 16 grams (2 rounded teaspoons)
- Apricot Jam: for spreading between layers and topping
- Optional: Chopped peanuts or your choice of decorations
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Line an 18 cm casserole dish with baking paper. Lightly grease it with oil or butter, then dust with flour to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a bowl, beat together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is light.
3. Add Liquids:
- Stir in the milk and vegetable oil until well combined.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour and baking powder to the mixture, stirring until smooth and lump-free.
5. First Bake:
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
6. Add Jam Layer:
- Remove the dish from the oven and spread a generous layer of apricot jam over the partially baked cake.
7. Second Bake:
- Gently spoon the remaining batter over the jam layer, ensuring the jam is fully covered.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cooling and Decorating:
- Let the cake cool completely in the dish.
- Once cooled, spread a thin layer of apricot jam on top for added flavor.
- Optionally, sprinkle with chopped peanuts or your preferred decorations.
Serving Suggestions:
- Tea Time Treat: Pair this Airy Apricot Jam Cake with your favorite tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
- Dessert Course: Serve it as a dessert after dinner, possibly with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Special Occasions: Decorate with fresh apricots or edible flowers to elevate it for festive events or special guests.
Cooking Tips:
- Consistent Baking: Ensure your oven is properly preheated for even cooking. An oven thermometer can help verify the temperature.
- Smooth Batter: Sift the flour and baking powder before mixing to avoid lumps.
- Prevent Sticking: Thoroughly grease and flour the dish, and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Jam Layering: Spread the jam gently to prevent it from mixing with the batter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for last-minute dessert needs.
- Deliciously Versatile: Swap out the apricot jam for other jams or fresh fruit layers to suit your taste.
- Perfect Sweetness: The apricot jam adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the delicate sponge.
- Family Favorite: Loved by both kids and adults, making it a hit for any gathering.
The Airy Apricot Jam Cake is a delightful and versatile dessert, combining simplicity with great taste and texture. Perfect for any occasion, this cake will quickly become a go-to favorite for all your sweet cravings. Enjoy the process of baking and the pleasure of indulging in this lovely creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use a different type of jam instead of apricot?
- A: Absolutely! You can substitute apricot jam with any other jam or preserve of your choice, such as strawberry, raspberry, or peach. Just keep in mind that different jams might vary in sweetness, so you can adjust the amount to your preference.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
- A: Yes, you can substitute the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture. The baking time might vary slightly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
Q: How should I store this cake?
- A: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent drying out.
Q: Can I add fresh fruit to the cake?
- A: Yes, fresh fruit can be a great addition. You can add thin slices of fresh apricot or peach between the layers along with the jam, or even mix some fruit into the batter for a more fruity texture.
Q: What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
- A: You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter, coconut oil, or even a mild-flavored olive oil. Each will give the cake a slightly different taste and texture, so choose based on your preference.
Q: Can I make this cake without eggs?
- A: Yes, you can make this cake egg-free by using a substitute like applesauce, mashed bananas, or a commercial egg replacer. Keep in mind that the texture might be a bit denser without eggs.
Q: How can I make the cake even more moist?
- A: For an even moister cake, consider adding a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream to the batter. You can also increase the amount of jam between the layers or brush the finished cake with a simple syrup.
Q: What size dish should I use if I don’t have an 18 cm casserole dish?
- A: If you don’t have an 18 cm dish, you can use a similar-sized round or square cake pan. A 7-inch round pan or an 8-inch square pan would work well. Just be aware that baking times may vary slightly.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
- A: Yes, you can double the recipe if you’re serving a larger crowd. Use a larger baking dish, such as a 9×13 inch pan, and adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Q: What decorations go well with this cake?
- A: Chopped nuts like peanuts, almonds, or walnuts, as well as shredded coconut or chocolate shavings, make great toppings. Fresh fruit, edible flowers, or a dusting of powdered sugar can also add a beautiful finishing touch.