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Cake with Jam and Walnuts - Childhood Memories

Welcome to the world of delights that remind us of childhood! Today, I will tell you about a cake that brings a smile to our faces and enchants us with the aroma of nostalgia: the cake with jam and walnuts. This simple and delicious recipe was inspired by moments spent in my mother's kitchen, where the scent of fresh butter and plum jam enveloped our hearts.

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 egg yolk
- 70 g sugar
- 100 g sour cream (preferably full-fat for a creamy texture)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 270 g flour
- Zest of one lemon (for a fresh aroma)
- 200 g ground walnuts (choose fresh nuts for an intense flavor)
- 1 jar of plum jam (or your favorite jam)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for sprinkling on top)
- 4 egg whites (ideally at room temperature for a more stable meringue)

The Story of the Cake

The cake with jam and walnuts is more than just a dessert; it is a journey back in time, to moments of joy, to Sunday meals when every dish was full of love. It is a perfect combination of the soft texture of the cake, the sweetness of the jam, and the crunchy walnuts on top. This cake can be adapted with different types of jam, depending on personal preferences, making it versatile and always surprising.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. It is important for the butter to be soft for easy mixing. If you have a little time, let it sit at room temperature for an hour before cooking.

2. Preheat the oven: Setting the oven to 180°C (350°F) will ensure even baking.

3. Mix the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, add the soft butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to mix them until they turn into a fluffy, light-colored cream. This process is essential, as the incorporated air will help the cake be fluffier.

4. Incorporate the yolk and sour cream: Add the egg yolk and sour cream, continuing to mix until homogeneous. These ingredients add moisture and a rich flavor.

5. Add the dry ingredients: Gradually sprinkle in the baking powder and sifted flour, mixing gently with a spatula. Finally, add the lemon zest, which will provide a fresh note and vibrant flavor.

6. Knead the dough: When the dough becomes non-sticky, place it on a work surface and knead it gently with your hands until it becomes homogeneous. It is a pleasant moment where you can feel the texture of the dough, similar to playing with playdough!

7. Prepare the tray: Line a rectangular tray with baking paper. This will facilitate the removal of the cake after baking.

8. Spread the dough: Place the dough in the tray and use your fingers to spread it evenly across the surface. Make sure the dough reaches the corners for even baking.

9. Bake the layer: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes. During this time, the dough will start to set and become slightly golden.

10. Prepare the meringue: While the layer is baking, beat the egg whites in a clean bowl until stiff peaks form. It is important that there are no traces of yolk in the egg whites, as fat will prevent a stable meringue.

11. Add the walnuts: In another bowl, mix the ground walnuts with powdered sugar. This will provide sweetness and a crunchy texture.

12. Assemble the cake: After the 8 minutes have passed, remove the tray from the oven. Spread an even layer of plum jam over the layer, then sprinkle the walnut mixture over the jam. Finally, add the beaten egg whites on top and smooth with a spatula.

13. Final baking: Place the tray back in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the egg whites turn golden and slightly crispy. Check the cake by gently pulling on the baking paper.

14. Cooling: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tray. Once completely cooled, you can cut it into squares and enjoy.

Serving and Variations

This cake is perfect for an afternoon tea or as a dessert at a family meal. You can serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. If you want to experiment, try replacing the plum jam with apricot, raspberry, or even cherry jam to add a personal touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of nut? Yes, you can try ground almonds or hazelnuts for interesting variations.
- How can I make the cake less sweet? Reduce the sugar amount in the recipe, but make sure the chosen jam is not too sweet.
- How do I store the cake? It keeps well in the fridge, in an airtight container, for up to a week.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake contains walnuts, which are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Additionally, the plum jam provides vitamins and antioxidants. However, moderate consumption is essential, considering the amount of sugar and fats from the butter.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to prepare this cake with jam and walnuts, it is time to bring it into your kitchen and create new shared memories with your loved ones. Whether you share it at a family gathering or enjoy it alongside a cup of tea, this cake will surely bring a touch of warmth and joy in every bite. Cooking is an art form, and every recipe has its story. So, let’s be inspired by beautiful memories and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!