Kefir and Jam Cake

This delightful kefir and jam cake promises a tender crumb and a sweet, fruity flavor in every bite. It's a versatile recipe that allows you to choose your favorite jam, making it a personalized treat. The cake is relatively simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients found in most kitchens. Kefir gives the cake a subtle tang while keeping it moist, and cinnamon adds a warming hint of spice. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or with a cup of tea, this cake is both comforting and satisfying. It's a great way to use up any extra jam or try something new, making it ideal for seasonal fruits. Whether you're an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this cake is a foolproof option. Its quick preparation and baking time make it a go-to treat for busy weekdays or unexpected guests. Enjoy this delightful confection with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 cup kefir
1 cup jam (your choice)
70 g sugar
2 eggs
2 cups flour

Spices:

1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon

Preparation Time

Total Time: 35 minutes (including preparation and cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and greasing a cake or loaf pan.
In a large bowl, blend the kefir and baking soda together. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the soda to activate, which will help your cake rise.
If using a very sweet jam, consider the sweetness level and adjust the sugar accordingly. Mix the sugar into the kefir, stirring until it's dissolved.
Crack the eggs into the kefir mixture, whisking until well combined and smooth.
Add your chosen jam to the mixture. Stir gently to incorporate.
Gradually sift in the flour and cinnamon, folding the mixture gently to avoid lumps.
Once the batter is smooth and evenly mixed, pour it into the prepared pan, spreading it out with a spatula.
Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving, or enjoy as it is.

Tips

Substitute Kefir with Buttermilk: If you don't have kefir, buttermilk can be an equivalent substitution.
Sugar Adjustment: Taste your jam first; if it's very sweet, consider reducing the added sugar.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
Protein: 5g
Fats: 8g
Carbs: 40g

Variations

Vegan Version: Replace eggs with a mashed banana or apple sauce and use a plant-based kefir.
Flavor Twists: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a zest of lemon for a flavor enhancer.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Best Places

La Pâtisserie des Rêves - Renowned for their artistic pastries and a wide range of jams. Location: 111 Rue de Longchamp, Paris, France.
Blu Jam Café - Known for their delicious brunches and creative jam recipes. Location: 7371 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
Cafe Savoy - Offers a classic Czech menu with delightful fruit preserves. Location: Vítězná 5, Prague, Czech Republic.
The Jam Tree - Combines African and Caribbean influences in their dishes with homemade jams. Location: 13-19 Great Eastern Street, London, UK.
Vinoteca - Offers wine pairings with exclusive cheese and jam selections. Location: 210 Leigh Place, Sydney, Australia.
Gelato Messina - Famous for gelato and unique jam flavors. Location: 237 Smith St, Fitzroy, Melbourne, Australia.
Cafe Gerbeaud - A historic cafe with traditional European pastries. Location: Vörösmarty tér 7-8, Budapest, Hungary.
Tartine Bakery - Known for their sourdough and organic preserves. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
Demel - Offers classic Viennese pastries and exquisite jams. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
Ottolenghi - Provides a rich array of modern desserts with fresh jam accents. Location: 287 Upper Street, London, UK.