Delight with sweetness

Delight with Jam – A Cake Easy to Prepare and Full of Flavors

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Introduction:
The jam cake is a quick and simple dessert to prepare, perfect for moments when we want to bring a touch of joy into our lives and those of our loved ones. This fluffy cake, with an intense fruit flavor, combines the airy texture of whipped egg whites with the delicate creaminess of egg yolks. It is a versatile dessert that you can adapt based on your favorite jam, whether you choose strawberry, cherry, or even a combination of them.

A Brief History:
The jam cake is a dessert that has passed through generations, bringing together cooking traditions from different cultures. Often, fruit cakes symbolized abundance and joy, being served at festive occasions or family gatherings. Nowadays, this recipe reminds us of the moments spent in the kitchen, learning from grandparents or parents, and it is a perfect way to use your favorite homemade jam.

Ingredients:
- 5 eggs (fresh and at room temperature)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- 5 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil, for a subtle taste)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- Strawberry jam (or other favorite fruits)
- Cherry jam (or other favorite fruits)
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Preparation Techniques:
1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, as this helps achieve a fluffier cake. Carefully separate the egg whites from the yolks, ensuring no yolk remains in the whites.

2. Whip the egg whites: In a large bowl, add the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites until they form a foam. Gradually add the sugar and continue mixing until you achieve a firm, glossy meringue. This is an essential step to add air and volume to the cake.

3. Mix the yolks: In another bowl, combine the yolks with the vanilla sugar and oil. Mix well until the composition becomes homogeneous and slightly frothy.

4. Combine the mixtures: With a wooden spatula or a silicone spoon, gently fold the yolk mixture into the meringue. Mix gently from the bottom up to avoid losing the air in the egg whites.

5. Add the flour: Sift the flour together with the baking powder and add the dry ingredients gradually, mixing lightly to incorporate. It is important not to overmix to maintain the fluffy texture.

6. Prepare the baking tray: Grease a baking tray with oil and dust it with flour to prevent the cake from sticking. You can use a 20x30 cm tray for a taller cake or a 25x35 cm tray for a thinner one.

7. Add the jam: Pour the cake mixture into the tray and smooth the surface. Using a spoon, dollop the strawberry and cherry jam in various spots, creating an artistic pattern.

8. Bake the cake: Place the tray in a preheated oven at 180 °C and bake for 30-35 minutes, until the cake is golden and passes the toothpick test (it should come out clean).

9. Cool and serve: After the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray. Once completely cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance.

Serving Suggestions:
This cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra flavor boost. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect dessert for a relaxing afternoon.

Possible Variations:
- You can try using other types of jam, such as peach or blackberry, to give it a different twist.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or lemon zest to the yolk mixture for an extra flavor.
- Turn the cake into a seasonal dessert by adding fresh fruit pieces on top, such as slices of peaches or kiwi.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can whole wheat flour be used? Yes, but the cake may have a denser texture. It is recommended to combine whole wheat flour with a higher percentage of white flour to achieve a fluffy cake.
2. Can I replace sugar with a natural sweetener? Yes, you can use sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount as they are sweeter than regular sugar.
3. How long does the cake last? The cake can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days, or in the fridge for 5-7 days.

Nutritional Benefits:
The jam cake is a source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. Eggs add essential proteins, and fruit jam contains vitamins and antioxidants. This dessert can be a better choice compared to other cakes, having a moderate sugar and fat content.

I hope this recipe inspires you to create delicious moments in the kitchen. Cooking is an art form and a way to share love with your loved ones. So, don’t hesitate to experiment and put your personal touch on every dish!