Greta Garbo

Nut and Apricot Jam Cake - A Nostalgic Recipe

In search of a cake that brings back childhood memories, the nut and apricot jam cake proves to be the perfect choice. This recipe not only combines delicious textures and flavors, but it is also an explosion of pleasant memories. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of tea or a fragrant coffee, each slice will bring a smile to your face.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Necessary ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 10 g dry yeast
- 100 ml lukewarm mineral water
- 50 g sugar
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Zest of 1 lemon (for a fresh taste)
- 2 eggs
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Flour as needed (approximately 500 g, depending on humidity)

*For the filling:*
- 1 jar of apricot jam (apricot jam is preferred, but you can experiment with other jams)
- 350 g ground nuts
- 200 g sugar

*For the glaze:*
- 200 g chocolate (you can choose between milk or dark chocolate, depending on preferences)
- 70-80 ml liquid cream

History of the nut and apricot jam cake:

The nut and apricot jam cake is a traditional recipe, often prepared on special occasions or holidays. This cake reflects the richness of simple but quality ingredients and the love for cooking, passing down generations of recipes from grandparents to grandchildren. The aromas of roasted nuts and apricot jam will fill your home with an inviting fragrance, evoking childhood memories.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the starter:
In a small bowl, mix the dry yeast with 50 ml of lukewarm mineral water and 50 g of the total sugar. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes in a warm place until it becomes frothy. This is the secret to a fluffy and airy dough.

2. Mixing the ingredients:
In a large bowl, sift the flour with the salt. Add the butter cut into cubes (make sure it is at room temperature for easy incorporation), sour cream, eggs, lemon zest, and the prepared starter. Start mixing with a wooden spoon and then knead with your hands until the dough becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your fingers. It is a pleasant process that will fill you with energy and joy.

3. Dough rising:
Divide the dough into three equal parts and place them in a bowl covered with a clean towel, letting them rise for 30 minutes in a warm place. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy cake.

4. Rolling out the dough:
On a floured work surface, roll out each ball of dough as thin as possible. It is important to be patient and use flour to prevent sticking.

5. Assembling the cake:
Line a 40/30 cm tray with baking paper or foil. Place the first sheet of dough in the tray. Spread the sheet with apricot jam, sprinkle half of the ground nuts and sugar. Add the second sheet, repeat the process of spreading with jam and sprinkling. Cover with the last sheet of dough.

6. Let the cake rise:
Allow the cake to rise again for 15 minutes. It will become fluffier and airier. Use a fork to poke it in several places so that steam can escape during baking.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cake for 35 minutes or until it turns golden and passes the toothpick test. Make sure it is well baked, but do not leave it too long to avoid drying out.

8. Glazing:
After the cake has cooled, prepare the glaze. In a small pot, heat the liquid cream and add the broken chocolate pieces. Stir until the chocolate completely melts and you get a smooth mixture. Pour the glaze over the cake, letting it gently flow over the edges.

9. Serving:
Let the glaze set a little before cutting the cake into squares or triangles. It can be served plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. You can pair the cake with fragrant tea or good coffee to complete the tasting experience.

Useful tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth dough.
- You can use various jams, but apricot is the most suitable due to its balance of sweet and sour.
- If you want a crunchier texture, lightly toast the nuts before using them.
- You can also add a splash of rum essence for extra flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This cake is high in calories due to the butter, nuts, and sugar, but it also offers essential nutrients. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats and proteins, while apricot jam provides necessary vitamins for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can experiment with hazelnuts or almonds, but the taste will be different.
2. How can I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
3. Can it be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is recommended to glaze it after thawing to maintain its appetizing appearance.

The nut and apricot jam cake is a perfect choice for any occasion, bringing joy and flavor to your table. Let yourself be carried away by memories and enjoy every slice!