The Story Behind the Dish

In the world of home baking, some recipes are more than just a collection of ingredients—they’re a narrative of comfort, tradition, and pure joy. This Apple Jam Cake is one such masterpiece, bridging the gap between rustic home cooking and elegant dessert. Inspired by classic European baking, it transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious treat that speaks to the heart of home cuisine.

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling

• Apple: 1 medium (approximately 150 grams / 5.3 oz)
• Lemon Juice: From half a lemon (about 15 ml / 1 tablespoon)
• Granulated Sugar: 1 tablespoon (15 grams)
• Butter: 1 tablespoon (15 grams)
• Ground Cinnamon: Pinch
• Apricot Jam: 1 tablespoon (15 grams)

For the Cake Batter

• Eggs: 3 large
• Granulated Sugar: 150 grams (3/4 cup)
• Salt: Pinch
• Vanilla Sugar: 8 grams (1 packet or 2 teaspoons vanilla extract)
• Vegetable Oil: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
• Milk: 150 ml (2/3 cup)
• All-Purpose Flour: 250 grams (2 cups)
• Baking Powder: 16 grams (1 tablespoon)
• Powdered Sugar: For decoration (to taste)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Apple Filling
   • Wash and peel the apple
   • Core and dice into small cubes
   • Squeeze lemon juice over apple pieces
   • In a small pan, melt butter
   • Add diced apples, sugar, and cinnamon
   • Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened
   • Remove from heat and let cool
   • Stir in apricot jam
2. Make the Cake Batter
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
   • Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan
   • In a large mixing bowl, crack eggs
   • Add granulated sugar and salt
   • Whisk until light and fluffy
   • Mix in vanilla sugar or extract
   • Gradually pour in vegetable oil while whisking
   • Add milk and continue to mix
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
   • In a separate bowl, sift flour
   • Add baking powder
   • Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture
   • Mix until just combined
   • Be careful not to overmix
4. Assemble the Cake
   • Pour half the batter into prepared pan
   • Spread cooled apple filling evenly
   • Cover with remaining batter
   • Use a spatula to ensure even distribution
5. Bake to Perfection
   • Place in preheated oven
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes
   • Check doneness with a toothpick
   • Toothpick should come out clean
   • Top should be golden brown
6. Finish and Serve
   • Remove from oven
   • Let cool in pan for 10 minutes
   • Transfer to wire rack
   • Once completely cool, dust with powdered sugar
   • Cut into squares

Nutritional Information

• Servings: 12-15 pieces
• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes

Nutritional Values (per serving):

• Calories: 220-250
• Protein: 3-4g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fat: 10-12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
• Calcium: 4% Daily Value

Cooking Tips and Tricks

• Use room temperature ingredients
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep cake tender
• Ensure apple filling is not too wet
• Check oven temperature for even baking
• Let cake cool completely before cutting
• Use a sharp knife for clean slices

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Replace milk with almond milk
• Fruit Variations: Substitute apples with pears or peaches
• Spice Twist: Add nutmeg or cardamom
• Nut Addition: Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, it keeps well for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

Q2: How do I store the cake? A: Store at room temperature, covered. Refrigerate if keeping longer than 2 days.

Q3: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.

Q4: What if I don’t have vanilla sugar? A: Use vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste.

Q5: Can I reduce the sugar? A: Slightly, but it may affect texture and browning.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Cool completely before storing
• Cover with plastic wrap or in airtight container
• Room temperature: 2-3 days
• Refrigerator: Up to 5 days
• Freeze for longer storage
• Bring to room temperature before serving

Savor the delightful blend of flavors in this Apple Jam Cake – a true testament to the magic of simple, heartwarming baking!