Victoria cake with jam

Victoria Sponge Cake with Jam – A Delicacy Full of History and Flavor

The Victoria Sponge Cake with Jam is a classic, elegant dessert full of flavor, rooted in culinary traditions of the past. This cake is named in honor of Queen Victoria of Great Britain, who was known to be a great lover of sweets. Combining fluffy layers with delicious jam and whipped cream, this cake quickly becomes a favorite for any occasion, whether it’s an anniversary, a party, or simply a family afternoon.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Necessary Ingredients:
- 200g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 200g granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large, fresh eggs
- 100g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 5 tablespoons raspberry jam (or another favorite jam, such as strawberry or peach)
- 250ml liquid cream
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Tips for Your Ingredients:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature for better incorporation into the sugar mixture, which will help achieve a fluffier cake.
- Choose a high-quality jam, preferably homemade, for an authentic taste. Raspberry jam adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Buy fresh eggs, as they provide a better texture to the batter.

Step by Step for a Perfect Victoria Cake:

1. Preparing the Oven and the Pan:
Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Grease a 20cm round cake pan with butter and dust it with flour. This step is essential to prevent the layers from sticking to the pan.

2. Preparing the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the ingredients at medium speed until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy, and the sugar is almost dissolved. This mixture will form the base of your fluffy cake.

3. Adding the Eggs:
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Ensure each egg is well incorporated before adding the next. This step will help create the structure of the layers.

4. Incorporating the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. Add this combination to the butter and egg mixture, gently folding with a spatula or wooden spoon until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.

5. Baking the Layers:
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake the layers in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until golden and springy when gently pressed in the center. Allow the layers to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Assembling the Cake:
Once the layers have completely cooled, take one and spread it with raspberry jam. Then, whip the liquid cream until soft peaks form and spread it evenly over the jam. Place the second layer on top, like a sweet sandwich.

7. Decorating and Serving:
Sprinkle powdered sugar over the cake for an elegant look. The Victoria Sponge Cake with Jam is served sliced, perfect alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

Personalized Variation:
For a personal touch, you can add some fresh fruit pieces, such as raspberries or strawberries, between the layers for an extra freshness. You can also experiment with different jam flavors or even a flavored cream cheese if you want a more decadent version.

Nutritional Benefits:
The Victoria Sponge Cake with Jam is a source of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and a splash of vitamins from the fruit jam. Although it is a dessert, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. A slice contains approximately 300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use another type of jam?
Yes, you can use any type of jam you prefer, such as strawberries, peaches, or even plum jam.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake stores best in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can refrigerate it to prolong its shelf life.

3. What other drinks pair well with this cake?
The Victoria Cake pairs perfectly with flavored teas, coffee, or even a glass of prosecco for a special occasion.

Now that you have all the necessary information, don’t hesitate to get started! The Victoria Sponge Cake with Jam is not only easy to make but also a true delight for the senses. Enjoy every step and the final result!