Jam Swirl Cake

This delightful jam swirl cake is a quick and easy dessert that brings a rustic touch to any table. Its moist, fluffy base is accented beautifully by a swirl of your favorite jam, creating a charming pattern reminiscent of a snail's shell. The dessert offers just the right touch of sweetness with hints of cinnamon, making it perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or a casual gathering. You'll love how the sour cream topping, lightly spiced with cinnamon, pairs with the cake's tender crumb, making each bite a delight. With a preparation time of just 40 minutes, this cake is an excellent pick for last-minute gatherings or when you want to whip up something special without spending too much time in the kitchen. The recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your preferences by using different types of jam or spices. Serve it warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience. It's not only simple but also customizable, making it a favorite for those who love to experiment with flavors. Whether you're a novice baker or an experienced cook, this recipe will surely add a touch of homemade charm to your menu.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 cups of jam
• 3 eggs
• 3 tablespoons of sugar
• 2 cups of flour
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• 1 cup of buttermilk

Topping

• Sour cream
• Cinnamon
• Sugar

Preparation Time

• 40 minutes total

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Start by preparing your baking environment so everything will bake evenly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy.
3. Add the buttermilk to the egg mixture and stir gradually until well incorporated.
4. Sift together the flour and baking powder, then slowly add to the wet ingredients mixing until you get a smooth batter.
5. Grease a baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Dollop the jam on top of the batter. Use a knife to swirl the jam gently through the batter, forming a spiral pattern. Do not overmix; the swirl design is key to the cake's appeal.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. While the cake is baking, prepare the sour cream topping by mixing sour cream, sugar, and a dash of cinnamon to taste.
10. Once the cake is done, allow it to cool slightly, then spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the top.
11. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some cinnamon over the topping before serving.
12. Serve warm or at room temperature. The flavor is enhanced and the cake is easier to cut once settled.
13. Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee, or serve as a light dessert after dinner.

Tips

• Substitutions: If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 10 minutes.
• Experiment with flavors by changing up the type of jam or adding different spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
• For a richer flavor, try using brown sugar instead of white sugar in the cake.
• Ensure oven accuracy by using an oven thermometer for the best results.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbs: 35g

Variations

• For a gluten-free version, replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• To reduce sugar, use a sugar-free jam or natural sweeteners like honey.
• For a vegan option, use egg replacer and plant-based buttermilk.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh berries or mint leaves for a pop of color.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Pair with a hot beverage like tea or coffee for a comforting experience.

Best Places

1. Maison Bertaux - A charming French patisserie known for its delicious cakes and pastries. Location: 28 Greek Street, London, UK.
2. Cafe Mozart - Offers an elegant European setting with delightful baked goods. Location: Albertinaplatz 2, Vienna, Austria.
3. Péché Mortel - Known for its cozy atmosphere and amazing desserts. Location: Rue de l'Église 45, Brussels, Belgium.
4. Balthazar Bakery - New York bakery famous for its traditional yet trendy baked delicacies. Location: 80 Spring Street, New York City, USA.
5. Café Central - A historical café offering the best of Viennese coffeehouse culture. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
6. Angelina - Known for its decadent sweets and classic pastries. Location: 226 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
7. Pasticceria Marchesi - A must-visit for a true Italian pastry experience. Location: Via Montenapoleone 9, Milan, Italy.
8. Café de Flore - One of the oldest and most prestigious cafés renowned for its bakery selection. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
9. Hofbräuhaus München - Where you can enjoy a traditional German dessert alongside a historic beer hall experience. Location: Platzl 9, Munich, Germany.
10. Confeitaria Colombo - Offers a rich history and superb sweets in a grand setting. Location: Rua Gonçalves Dias 32, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.