Apple Cherry Jam Cake

This Apple Cherry Jam Cake is a delightful blend of moist sponge, tender apple slices, and a fruity jam glaze that brings a comforting yet elegant touch to your dessert table. Drawing from classic European-style baking, this cake layers simple ingredients into a luscious creation that feels both rustic and refined. Whether you’re serving it with afternoon tea or as a dessert centerpiece, it never fails to impress with its golden crust, soft crumb, and fruity aroma.

Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 20 minutes

• Baking time: 50 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Servings: 8–10 slices

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs

• 1 pinch of salt

• 225 g (1 cup + 2 tbsp) granulated sugar

• 180 ml (3/4 cup) vegetable oil

• 225 ml (1 cup) milk

• 375 g (3 cups) all-purpose flour

• 24 g (1.5 tbsp) baking powder

• Butter, for greasing the pan

• Additional flour, for dusting the pan

• 1–2 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

• A splash of lemon juice (to prevent browning)

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for apples)

• 30 g (2 tbsp) butter

• 2 tbsp cherry jam

• Apricot jam, for glazing

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 21 cm (8-inch) round cake pan with butter and dust it lightly with flour. Set aside.

2. Prepare the batter. In a large mixing bowl, crack in the 4 eggs. Add a pinch of salt and the granulated sugar. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until pale and fluffy.

3. Add the wet ingredients. Pour in the vegetable oil and milk, and continue whisking until well combined.

4. Combine dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix the flour and baking powder. Gradually sift into the wet mixture, stirring gently to avoid lumps. Mix until smooth and creamy.

5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Level the top with a spatula.

6. Prepare the apple topping. Peel and slice 1–2 apples thinly. Sprinkle with lemon juice and 2 tbsp sugar. Sauté briefly in 30 g butter until just tender. Let them cool slightly.

7. Layer the apples. Arrange the softened apple slices on top of the batter in a decorative pattern.

8. Bake. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Mid-bake jam addition. After 30–35 minutes, remove the cake from the oven briefly and spoon 2 tbsp of cherry jam in small dollops across the top. Return to the oven to finish baking.

10. Glaze. Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, brush the top with a thin layer of warm apricot jam for a glossy finish.

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 10 slices)

• Calories: 330 kcal

• Protein: 6 g

• Fat: 14 g

• Carbohydrates: 45 g

• Fiber: 1.2 g

• Sugars: 22 g

• Calcium: 120 mg

• Iron: 1.4 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

This recipe draws inspiration from classic German and Austrian coffee cakes that often incorporate fruit and jam into rich but simple batters. Apple cakes have been a staple of Central European households for generations, prized for their use of local, seasonal fruits. The addition of cherry and apricot jams reflects a modern twist that adds layers of flavor and a bakery-style finish. These cakes are popular for their versatility, suitable for breakfast, dessert, or special occasions.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Everything used is likely already in your kitchen.

• No Mixer Needed: A whisk and spatula are sufficient.

• Versatile: Works for both casual and formal occasions.

• Balanced Flavor: The tartness of apples complements the sweetness of the jam.

• Visually Appealing: The jam and apple slices make a beautiful presentation.

• Easy to Customize: You can vary the fruit and jam according to the season.

Health Benefits

While this cake is a treat, it offers moderate health benefits:

• Apples provide dietary fiber and vitamin C.

• Eggs contribute protein and essential nutrients like choline.

• Milk adds calcium and vitamin D.

• Homemade option means no preservatives or artificial flavors.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

• Pair with black coffee or Earl Grey tea during afternoon tea.

• Add a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a more indulgent touch.

• Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving for a bakery-style finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake.

• Using cold ingredients: Eggs and milk should be at room temperature.

• Skipping the flour dusting in the pan: This ensures easy release after baking.

• Overbaking: Check with a toothpick at the 45-minute mark.

• Adding jam too early: Doing so can cause it to sink or burn—add it mid-bake.

Pairing Recommendations

• Drinks: Black tea, spiced chai, or sparkling apple cider.

• Main course accompaniment: After a light meal like a salad or soup.

• Side additions: Vanilla custard or cinnamon cream can elevate the dessert.

Cooking Tips

• Sautéing apples enhances their flavor and prevents them from being too firm.

• Warming the apricot jam slightly makes it easier to spread.

• You can use a springform pan for easy removal and a cleaner presentation.

• Let the cake cool completely before slicing for best texture and structure.

Similar Recipes to Try

• German Apfelkuchen (Apple Cake)

• Austrian Marillenkuchen (Apricot Cake)

• Cherry Almond Coffee Cake

• Apple Cinnamon Muffins

• French Tarte Tatin

Variations to Try

• Fruit swap: Use pears, peaches, or plums instead of apples.

• Jam alternatives: Try raspberry, blueberry, or fig jam.

• Add spices: Cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg can deepen the flavor.

• Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend.

• Vegan variation: Substitute eggs with applesauce and use plant-based milk.

Ingredient Spotlight: Apples

Apples are a cornerstone ingredient in many traditional cakes. Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C, they not only bring moisture and flavor to baked goods but also add subtle tartness that balances out sweet elements. Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Braeburn for best baking results—they hold their shape and deliver a bold flavor after cooking.

Conclusion

This Apple Cherry Jam Cake offers a delightful mix of tradition and creativity. With tender apples, a moist sponge, and fruity jam accents, it captures the essence of home baking at its finest. Easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for a celebration, this cake is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. From its golden crust to its sweetly tart finish, every bite tells a story of simple pleasures and well-crafted flavors.

10 Comprehensive FAQs

1. Can I make this cake without eggs?
Yes, substitute with 1/4 cup applesauce or mashed banana per egg. The texture will be slightly denser.

2. What type of apples work best?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are ideal due to their firmness and tartness.

3. How do I store the cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

4. Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic and foil. Thaw at room temperature.

5. Is it necessary to sauté the apples?
It’s not required, but it enhances flavor and ensures tender texture after baking.

6. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce it to 180 g if you prefer less sweetness.

7. What can I use instead of cherry jam?
Any jam you like—raspberry, blueberry, fig, or even marmalade will work.

8. Can I make this in a different pan size?
Yes, adjust baking time accordingly. A larger pan will bake faster; a smaller one slower.

9. Why do you add jam midway through baking?
Adding it midway prevents it from burning or sinking and keeps it visually appealing.

10. What is the apricot glaze for?
It adds a professional finish and a subtle fruit flavor, enhancing the cake’s overall presentation and taste.