Apple and raspberry jam cake is a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the tart flavor of raspberry jam, creating a perfect balance of flavors. With a soft, moist crumb and rich flavors, this cake is ideal for any occasion, whether as a light snack, dessert, or part of a festive spread. Below is a detailed recipe for preparing this easy yet delicious cake, followed by answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help ensure your baking experience is a success.
Ingredients
For the Apples:
- Apples: 3 medium-sized, peeled and grated
- Sugar (for apples): 2 tbsp (30 g)
- Lemon juice: From 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
For the Batter:
- Eggs: 2 large
- Sugar (for batter): ½ cup (100 g)
- Vanilla sugar: 1 tbsp (8 g)
- Butter: ½ cup (120 ml), melted
- Sour cream: ½ cup (120 g)
- Flour: 1¾ cups (220 g)
- Baking powder: 2 tsp (12 g)
For the Jam Layer:
- Raspberry jam: 3 tbsp (50 g)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Begin by peeling and grating the apples. The grated apples will incorporate smoothly into the batter, enhancing the cake’s moisture and flavor. In a small pan, combine the grated apples with 2 tablespoons of sugar and the juice of one lemon. Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 5-10 minutes until the apples are softened and juicy. Once they are cooked down, remove the pan from the heat and set it aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, ½ cup of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla sugar until the mixture becomes light and frothy. This step helps to incorporate air into the batter, which results in a lighter cake. Add the melted butter and sour cream to the bowl and mix well until the ingredients are fully combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour and baking powder together in a separate bowl. Sifting helps eliminate any lumps in the flour and ensures even distribution of the baking powder, which contributes to the cake’s fluffiness. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until you have a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
Step 4: Layer the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Pour half of the batter into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, spread the cooled apple mixture over the batter, followed by dollops of raspberry jam. Pour the remaining batter over the apples and jam, spreading it out with a spatula to cover the top. The jam will melt into the cake as it bakes, creating a deliciously sweet and slightly tangy swirl.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and have a slightly firm texture. Let the cake cool in the baking dish for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious served in several ways:
- Warm or Room Temperature: Serve it warm out of the oven or at room temperature—both options are equally delightful.
- With Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: For a luxurious treat, serve the cake with freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with Honey: A drizzle of honey adds a natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the raspberry jam.
- Pair with Tea or Coffee: This cake makes an excellent afternoon snack and pairs well with a hot beverage like tea or coffee.
Cooking Tips
Cool the Apples
Allow the apple mixture to cool completely before layering it into the batter. If the apples are still warm, they can make the batter soggy, which affects the cake’s texture.
Use a Mix of Apples
For a more complex flavor, try using a mix of sweet and tart apples. A combination of Fuji or Gala apples (sweet) and Granny Smith apples (tart) will give the cake a balanced flavor profile.
Prevent Cake from Sticking
Ensure that you grease and flour the baking dish, or line it with parchment paper, to prevent the cake from sticking. This step will make it easier to remove the cake once it has cooled.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this apple and raspberry jam cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that includes a stabilizer to help the cake rise properly. Additionally, make sure your raspberry jam is gluten-free, as some jams may contain gluten or wheat-based ingredients.
2. Can I substitute other fruits for the apples?
While apples are the star of this recipe, you can try using other fruits such as pears or peaches. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the cake may change slightly, but it will still be delicious. If using a more watery fruit, such as peaches, reduce the amount of sugar to prevent the cake from becoming too moist.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
4. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made in advance. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. If making it ahead of time, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature, or refrigerate it for up to 3 days.
5. Can I use other types of jam?
While raspberry jam is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can use other types of jam, such as strawberry, apricot, or blueberry. Each type of jam will bring its own flavor, but raspberry adds a lovely tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
Nutritional Benefits
This cake isn’t just delicious—it also offers some health benefits:
- Apples: A great source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, apples help support digestive health and boost the immune system.
- Raspberry Jam: Packed with antioxidants, raspberry jam contributes to reducing inflammation and supporting heart health.
- Sour Cream: Adds a rich texture while providing calcium and protein, which are beneficial for bone health and muscle function.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Protein: 4 g
Dietary Information
This cake is suitable for vegetarians. If you need a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free flour. Additionally, the cake can be adjusted for various dietary preferences, such as using plant-based butter and sour cream for a vegan option.
Conclusion
Apple and raspberry jam cake is a simple yet flavorful dessert that delivers a perfect combination of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors. With its moist texture and irresistible jam swirl, this cake is a wonderful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as an afternoon snack, it’s sure to become a favorite. Follow this detailed recipe, and don’t forget to refer to the FAQs for additional tips and answers to common questions. Enjoy baking and indulging in this delightful cake!