Apricot jam and walnut cake

Goodies for carolers - a recipe for a cake with apricot jam and walnuts that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones, especially during the festive season. This cake is not just a dessert; it is a sweet memory, a symbol of hospitality and the tradition of sharing special moments with loved ones. Whether you serve it during caroling or as a snack on winter evenings, this delicacy will quickly become a family favorite.

Preparation time: 35 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Number of servings: 20 servings

Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 470 g flour
- 120 g powdered sugar
- 1 packet baking powder
- Zest of one lemon or lemon essence
- 180 g soft butter
- 1 heaping tablespoon sour cream
- 6 egg yolks
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 1 jar apricot jam
- 6 egg whites
- 150 g roasted and ground walnuts
- 150 g powdered sugar
- 2 packets vanilla sugar

Recipe history
This cake has deep roots in culinary traditions, often prepared in households to celebrate important moments, such as caroling. The apricot jam, with its sweet-tart flavor, perfectly complements the fluffy texture of the meringue, while the walnuts add a crunchy layer that transforms every bite into a delicious experience. In many cultures, sweets are a symbol of prosperity and joy, and this cake is certainly a perfect example.

Step by step for a perfect result

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by mixing the soft butter with the powdered sugar until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. This step is essential for obtaining a light texture. If the butter is too cold, it will be difficult to homogenize. Make sure the butter is at room temperature.

2. Adding wet ingredients:
Add the egg yolks one by one, mixing well after each to incorporate the necessary air. Then, add the sour cream, salt, and lemon zest or lemon essence. The lemon will give a fresh taste and balance the sweetness of the jam.

3. Incorporating dry ingredients:
Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually add them to the butter mixture. Knead gently until you obtain a soft dough that no longer sticks to the walls of the bowl. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little flour, but be careful not to dry it out.

4. Preparing the tray:
Roll out the dough into the desired shape, usually a rectangle, and place it in the baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure the dough is evenly spread for even baking. Prick it with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming.

5. Adding the jam:
Spread a generous layer of apricot jam over the dough, ensuring it is evenly covered. The jam not only adds a delicious flavor but also moisture, keeping the cake soft.

6. Preparing the meringue:
Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve a shiny and firm meringue. This is the key to obtaining a light and airy cake. Gently fold in the ground walnuts to avoid losing the air in the meringue.

7. Assembling and baking:
Spread the meringue over the apricot jam, ensuring it is evenly covered. Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 35-40 minutes, or until the meringue turns golden. You will know it is ready when, to the touch, the meringue is firm and slightly elastic.

8. Cooling and slicing:
After baking, let the cake cool completely in the tray. This step is essential as it helps stabilize the meringue. Use a lightly dampened knife to slice the cake, thus avoiding sticking.

Practical tips and variations
- Jam: You can experiment with different types of jam, such as plum or berry jam, to add a personalized touch to your cake.
- Nuts: If you don’t have walnuts on hand, you can use hazelnuts or almonds to vary the texture and flavor.
- Serving: This cake is delicious served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Add a touch of refinement by dusting it with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutritional information
This cake contains approximately 180 calories per serving, making it an excellent choice for a moderate dessert. The walnuts provide a source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, while the apricot jam offers essential vitamins and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I replace the butter with another type of fat?
Yes, you can use margarine or coconut oil, but the final texture will be different.

2. What can I do with leftover cake?
The cake keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and if you want to store it longer, you can freeze it.

3. Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

Enjoy every moment you spend preparing and savoring this cake with apricot jam and walnuts! Bringing together the aroma of lemon, the sweetness of the jam, and the crunch of the walnuts, it is more than just a dessert; it is a true culinary celebration!