Lenten cake with cherry jam

Vegan Cherry Jam Cake – A Soft and Aromatic Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Are you looking for a simple and quick recipe for a vegan dessert that is both tasty and satisfying? The vegan cherry jam cake is the perfect choice! With a delicious combination of flavors and a moist texture, this cake will delight both sweet lovers and those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

A bit of history: Over time, vegan cakes have been made as a way to preserve culinary traditions during periods of abstinence. Cherry jam, with its slightly tart and aromatic flavor, adds a touch of freshness to this cake, turning it into an unforgettable dessert.

Ingredients:

- 200 g cherry jam (preferably without preservatives)
- 100 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 1/2 cup oil (sunflower oil is a good choice)
- 1 cup sparkling mineral water (to add a bit of fizz)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (good quality cocoa will enhance the flavor)
- 1 teaspoon orange essence (for an inviting fragrance)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla (natural, if possible)
- 1 packet baking powder (about 10 g)
- 2 cups flour (wheat flour is ideal)

For decoration:

- 50 g almond flakes (or ground almonds)
- 50 g coconut flakes (optional)
- 50 g ground walnuts (for a richer taste)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve an even mixture. Buy high-quality cherry jam without additives for the best taste.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cherry jam, sugar, oil, cocoa powder, orange essence, and vanilla. Use a whisk or a silicone spatula to mix well until all ingredients are homogeneous.

3. Adding the sparkling water: Once the mixture is uniform, gradually add the sparkling mineral water while continuously mixing. The sparkling water will help make the cake fluffier due to the air bubbles.

4. Incorporating the flour: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the mixture. Add the flour to the wet mixture, one cup at a time, mixing until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

5. Preparing the baking pan: Line a baking tray (about 20x30 cm) with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking and make it easier to remove from the tray.

6. Baking the cake: Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and level the surface with a spatula. Place the cake in the preheated oven at 180°C and bake for 15 minutes.

7. Adding the decoration: After 15 minutes, remove the cake from the oven and sprinkle almond flakes, coconut flakes, or ground walnuts on top, depending on your preferences. Return the cake to the oven and continue baking for another 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cooling and slicing: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut the cake into squares or triangles, depending on your preference.

Serving suggestion: This vegan cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of green tea or a fragrant espresso. You can add a spoonful of cherry jam on each serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a personal touch, you can experiment with other types of jam, such as apricot or raspberry jam.
- The cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or in the fridge for a longer duration.
- If you follow a healthier diet, you can replace sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey (if your diet allows).

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace cherry jam with another type of jam?
Yes, you can use any jam you prefer, but make sure to choose a jam with a similar consistency.

2. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this vegan cake does not contain any animal-derived ingredients.

3. How can I make the cake fluffier?
Make sure to mix the ingredients well and respect the baking times. Adding sparkling water is an excellent trick for achieving a fluffy cake.

4. Can I add nuts or other seeds to the mixture?
Absolutely! Added nuts or seeds will provide a crunchy texture and delicious flavor.

5. What other desserts can it be combined with?
This cake pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce.

In conclusion, the vegan cherry jam cake is a simple yet flavorful recipe that will delight any palate. Whether you serve it at a family meal or prepare it for a gathering with friends, it will surely become a favorite. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal touch on the recipe. Enjoy!