Cake with jam and nuts

Jam and Walnut Cake: An Unforgettable Delight

If you are looking for a dessert that will delight your taste buds and bring a touch of nostalgia, the jam and walnut cake is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the rich flavors of walnuts with the sweetness of jam, creating a perfect contrast that will make any meal more special. Moreover, it is a simple recipe, ideal for those who want to impress their family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

- 300 g butter (make sure it is at room temperature for easier mixing)
- 300 g sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (for a richer flavor, you can use natural vanilla sugar)
- 4 eggs (separate the whites from the yolks)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 50 g lemon zest (freshly grated, to add a fresh citrus flavor)
- 50 ml lemon juice (about one medium lemon)
- 600 g flour (preferably type 550 for a finer texture)
- 1 jar of apricot jam (or any jam you prefer, but apricots provide an excellent combination with walnuts)
- 300 g ground walnuts (you can use two types of walnuts for a more complex flavor)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dough: Start by melting the butter in a large bowl. Add the sugar and vanilla sugar, mixing them well with a spatula or a mixer on low speed until the mixture becomes homogeneous. This step is essential for obtaining an airy dough.

2. Incorporating the eggs: Add the 4 eggs one at a time, continuing to mix until you get a fluffy and uniform cream. This will contribute to a soft texture of the cake.

3. Adding dry ingredients: In another container, combine the flour with the baking powder, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix the dry ingredients well, then gradually incorporate them into the butter and egg mixture. Mix gently until the dough becomes elastic and homogeneous.

4. Chilling the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out later.

5. Baking the first layer: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. On a floured surface, roll out more than half of the dough into a sheet about 1 cm thick. Place the sheet in a baking tray lined with butter and flour or parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes, until the dough turns slightly golden.

6. Preparing the filling: Meanwhile, beat the remaining egg white until it becomes frothy. Add the apricot jam and ground walnuts, mixing gently. This filling will add a rich flavor and a crunchy texture to your cake.

7. Assembling the cake: Once the first layer has cooled and firmed up a bit, spread the jam filling evenly on top. From the remaining dough, form lattice strips to place on top of the filling.

8. Finishing the baking: Brush the lattice with the remaining egg yolk for a beautiful golden color. Sprinkle vanilla sugar for an extra flavor and sweetness. Put the cake back in the oven for another 10 minutes, until everything is golden and appetizing.

9. Cooling and serving: Once the cake has completely cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar generously on top. This detail will not only make the cake more attractive but will also add a touch of sweetness.

Useful tips:

- Use your favorite jam or even a mix of jams to give it a unique flavor.
- You can also add some dried fruit pieces to the filling for added texture.
- If you want to impress your guests, serve the cake with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Nutritional benefits:

This cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Walnuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, while apricot jam provides essential vitamins like A and C. With a moderate calorie content, this cake can be a good choice for an occasional dessert.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I replace walnuts with another ingredient? Yes, you can use ground almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
- What can I do with the leftover dough? You can use the leftover dough to create simple cookies or mini tarts.
- How do I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh for several days.

In conclusion, the jam and walnut cake is not only an easy-to-make dessert but also an opportunity to bring joy around the table. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones or give it as a gift, each slice will be appreciated. So put on your apron and enjoy the cooking process!