Cake with layers and plum jam

Prune Jam Layer Cake - a classic delight, reinterpreted

Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12-16 servings
Difficulty: Medium

In the sweet universe of cakes, there are a few recipes that have managed to capture the hearts of many over time. The Prune Jam Layer Cake is an adaptation of the famous Greta Garbo cake, but with a personal touch that makes it unique. This cake, with tender layers and a rich filling of prune jam, is perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a party, at a festive meal, or simply to indulge yourself, you will find that each bite is an explosion of flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 750 g flour
- 250 g butter (82% fat), soft
- 250 g sour cream (20% fat)
- 3 eggs
- 125 g sugar
- Zest of one lemon
- 1 teaspoon lemon essence
- 1 packet of dry yeast (7 g)
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 800 g prune jam
- 200 g walnuts
- 50 g granulated sugar
- A pinch of cinnamon

For the glaze:
- 100 g dark chocolate
- 50 ml milk
- 25 g butter
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Ground walnuts for decoration

Preparing the cake

1. Preparing the dough: Start by creaming the soft butter with the sugar and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Use a spatula or a mixer on low speed to achieve a creamy consistency. Add the eggs, sour cream, lemon zest, and essence, mixing well until combined.

2. Incorporating the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the dry yeast. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until you obtain a soft but non-sticky dough. It is normal for the dough to be somewhat loose – it will become more elastic as it rests.

3. Resting the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rest for 15 minutes. This step is crucial to allow the ingredients to blend perfectly.

4. Dividing the dough: After the resting time, divide the dough into four equal parts. This will ensure that the layers of dough will be uniform and easy to handle.

5. Forming the layers: Start with the first part of the dough. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface until you obtain a thin layer. Place the layer in a greased baking pan lined with sugar. This step will provide a delicious caramelization.

6. Filling: Spread a generous layer of prune jam on the first layer, then sprinkle the walnuts mixed with sugar and cinnamon. Continue with the second layer of dough, repeating the filling process with jam and walnuts. Continue until you reach the last layer, which will remain unfilled.

7. Preparing for baking: Prick the top layer in several places with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. This will help maintain a crispy texture.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes or until golden and well-baked. The aroma will fill the entire kitchen!

9. Preparing the glaze: Once the cake has cooled slightly, it is time to prepare the glaze. In a pot, add the broken chocolate, milk, butter, and sugar. Heat on low, stirring constantly until smooth.

10. Finishing the cake: Pour the hot glaze over the slightly cooled cake. Immediately sprinkle the ground walnuts mixed with cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor. Allow the cake to cool completely and the glaze to set, then slice it.

Useful tips

- Ingredients: Use quality butter, as it will affect the final texture and flavor of the cake. The sour cream should be as fatty as possible to achieve a tender dough.
- Vegan option: You can substitute butter with vegan margarine and eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with water (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons of water = 1 egg).
- Serving: The Prune Jam Layer Cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea. Add a splash of whipped cream for a delicious contrast!

Nutritional benefits

Prune jam is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Walnuts add healthy fats and protein, making this cake not only a delicious choice but also a more nutritious option.

Frequently asked questions

1. How can I keep the cake fresh?
Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature. You can store it in the fridge, but it is better at room temperature.

2. Can I use another jam instead of prune jam?
Absolutely! This recipe adapts very well to other types of jam, such as apricot or raspberry jam.

3. How long does the cake last?
The cake stays fresh for about 5-7 days, but it is so delicious that it certainly won't last that long!

This Prune Jam Layer Cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings together textures and flavors in a perfect combination. Whether you make it for yourself or for loved ones, each piece will bring a piece of joy. Enjoy it with pleasure!