10-Minute Prep Jam Cake Recipe: Simple & Delicious

Simple Jam Cake Recipe

A jam cake recipe is a yummy dessert that blends a soft sugar cake with swirls of jam and a crispy crumb cake topping. It’s simple to make and tastes delicious, especially when you have some leftover jam to use up.

The cake is typically made with spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cloves, giving it a warm and balanced flavor. The key to a good jam cake is using the right type of jam – preferably seedless blackberry jam or preserves without added pectin, to avoid making the cake too dense.

Traditionally, jam cake recipe were baked during the holidays and originated from European immigrants who settled in Kentucky, Tennessee, and other parts of the Southern United States. They’d use homemade berry jam, usually blackberry or blueberry, along with lots of spices and nuts like black walnuts and pecans.

The cake is often topped with a creamy caramel frosting, adding a touch of sweetness to complement the tartness of the jam. Overall, jam cake recipe is a beloved Southern dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. As for crack cake, it’s another name for jam cake, often used interchangeably in different regions. Both refer to the same delicious dessert enjoyed by many.

Why We Love this Recipe

Versatility: You can use any jam or preserves flavor you like, allowing for personalization.
Simple Prep: No fancy equipment or advanced skills required, making it accessible to everyone.
Moist and Flavorful: The jam adds moisture and enhances the taste, resulting in a tender and delicious cake.
Nostalgic Comfort: Reminiscent of homemade treats from childhood or special occasions, it evokes warm memories.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for dessert, potlucks, or tea time, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all occasions.

Ingredients for Jam Cake Recipe

2½ cups all-purpose flour
1¼ cups granulated sugar
1½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon grated fresh nutmeg
¾ cup whole milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste
¾ cup of your favorite jam or preserves (such as Quick Blackberry-Blueberry Jam or Apricot)

For Topping

½ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon kosher salt
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions for Jam Cake Recipe

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray an 8-inch round cake pan with baking spray and line it with parchment paper.
Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg in a medium bowl, whisking until well blended.
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla bean paste.
Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined.
Carefully transfer half of the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
Spoon the Quick Blackberry-Blueberry Jam or Apricot Jam into the center of the batter in the pan.
Pipe the remaining batter on top of the jam and smooth it with an offset spatula.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, covering with foil during the last 10 minutes to prevent excess browning.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, gently slide a spatula around the edges and flip it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Topping

Combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a small bowl.
Brush the top and sides of the cake with melted butter, then sprinkle the sugar mixture over the top and press it into the sides of the cake.
Once the topping is applied, allow the cake to set before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Jam Cake Recipe.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1 slice

Calories: 410 kcal per serving
Total Fat: 14g (17% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 65mg (15% Daily Value)
Sodium: 180mg (15% Daily Value)
Potassium: 160mg
Total Carbohydrate: 65g (24% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% Daily Value)
- Sugars: 35g
Protein: 6g (12% Daily Value)
Vitamin A: 100 IU
Vitamin C: 2mg
Calcium: 70mg
Iron: 2.5mg

% Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Storing the Jam Cake Recipe

Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the jam cake within a day or two, you can store it at room temperature. Place the cake in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, especially in warmer climates or if your kitchen tends to be warm, it’s best to store the jam cake in the refrigerator. Again, ensure it’s stored in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap to maintain its freshness.
Freezing: If you want to store the jam cake for an extended period, you can freeze it. To prevent freezer burn, tightly wrap individual slices or the entire cake first with plastic wrap, then with aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can place the cake in a freezer-safe, airtight container. Properly wrapped, the cake can last in the freezer for up to three months.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen jam cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps retain the cake’s moisture and prevents it from becoming soggy.
Serving: Whether stored at room temperature, in the refrigerator, or freezer, allow the jam cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture. Enjoy your stored jam cake within a few days for optimal freshness.

FAQ’s

Can you add jam to a cake mix?

Yes, you can incorporate jam into a cake mix to infuse it with fruity flavor and moisture. When preparing a jam cake recipe, simply swirl the desired amount of jam into the cake batter before baking. This adds a delightful touch of sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the cake.

Why is my jam cake dry?

If your jam cake turns out dry, it could be due to several factors. Overbaking is a common cause, so it’s essential to follow the recommended baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick. Additionally, using too much flour or not enough liquid in the batter can result in a dry texture. To ensure a moist jam cake, follow the recipe closely, and consider adding extra liquid ingredients like milk or sour cream if needed.

Which is better, jam or jelly?

When comparing jam and jelly, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the intended use. In a jam cake recipe, jam is typically preferred for its thicker texture and chunks of fruit, which add moisture and flavor to the cake. Jelly, on the other hand, has a smoother consistency as it’s made from fruit juice without fruit pieces. Both can be delicious additions to baked goods, so choose based on your taste preferences and desired texture.

Can I leave out the nuts in a jam cake recipe?

Certainly! If you prefer a nut-free version of a jam cake, you can omit the nuts from the recipe without compromising its overall taste and texture. Simply skip the step that calls for adding nuts, and proceed with the rest of the instructions as usual. The jam cake will still be flavorful and enjoyable, catering to any dietary preferences or allergies.

Does a jam cake recipe need to be refrigerated?

Whether a jam cake recipe needs refrigeration depends on its ingredients and fillings. If the jam cake contains perishable components like cream cheese frosting or fresh fruit, it’s advisable to refrigerate it to maintain its freshness and prevent spoilage. However, if the cake is made with shelf-stable ingredients and doesn’t have perishable fillings, it can be stored at room temperature for a day or two. Always consider the ingredients used and storage conditions to ensure food safety and quality.

Which type of cake is trending?

Currently, the Italian Hangover Cake Recipe, Oreo Mug Cake Recipe, Chocolate Cherry Cake Recipe, and Key Lime Cake Recipe are among the trending types of cakes. These cakes offer unique flavors and delicious combinations that appeal to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re craving the rich flavors of chocolate and cherries, the tangy zest of key lime, or the indulgent sweetness of Italian-inspired desserts, these trending cake recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

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