Upside Down Cake

To obtain a cake with delicious layers and a flavorful filling of plum jam, we will carefully follow the steps, ensuring that each ingredient contributes to a perfect taste.

1. We start the process by preparing the layers. In a large bowl, we combine the flour with cold butter cut into cubes. It is important that the butter is cold to achieve a flaky texture. We mix well with our fingers until the mixture resembles fine sand. Then, we add the powdered sugar, baking powder, egg, and sour cream. These wet ingredients help bind the dough and give it a rich flavor. We knead the dough patiently until all the ingredients are perfectly incorporated. Finally, we divide the dough into two equal pieces, forming balls that we let rest in plastic wrap for about 30 minutes in the fridge.

2. After the dough has rested, we take each piece and roll it out with a rolling pin on a surface dusted with flour, so that we obtain thin and even layers. We take the first layer and carefully place it in the baking tray, which has been previously greased with oil and dusted with flour. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make the removal process much easier. Over the layer in the tray, we spread a generous layer of plum jam, which brings a pleasant contrast between sweet and tangy, adding extra flavor.

3. Now we move on to preparing the filling. We start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Using a mixer, we beat the egg whites with the sugar added gradually, tablespoon by tablespoon, until the mixture becomes stiff and glossy. It is important that the sugar is completely dissolved, so that it is not felt at the end. After obtaining a perfect meringue, we add the yolks, ground nuts, and vanilla essence. We mix with a spatula, using an upward motion to maintain the air in the mixture. We carefully pour this mixture over the layer of jam, ensuring it is evenly distributed. We cover it with the second layer, which we pierce here and there with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

4. We bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about 40 minutes, or until the surface turns slightly golden and pulls away from the edges. Once the cake is baked, we let it cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes. Then, we take it out onto a rack and let it cool completely. After it has cooled, we cut the cake into squares or rectangles, turning each piece so that the layer of jam is visible. Finally, we dust the cake with powdered sugar, giving it an elegant and appetizing appearance. Now it is ready to be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee!