Apricot Jam Cake: A Delightful Recipe with Step-by-Step Instructions
Apricot jam cake is a timeless classic, offering a delightful combination of moist cake layers and the sweet, tangy flavor of apricot jam. This recipe provides detailed instructions to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting. The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity; it uses common ingredients and straightforward techniques, yet delivers a truly memorable dessert. Let’s embark on this baking adventure and create a cake that will impress family and friends!
Why Apricot Jam Cake?
Apricot jam cake offers several advantages:
* **Flavor Profile:** The sweet and slightly tart taste of apricot jam complements the richness of the cake beautifully. It’s not overly sweet, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion.
* **Moisture:** The jam adds significant moisture to the cake, ensuring a tender and delicious crumb.
* **Simplicity:** The recipe is relatively easy to follow, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
* **Versatility:** You can adapt the recipe to include nuts, spices, or different types of frosting, allowing for creative variations.
* **Nostalgia:** For many, apricot jam cake evokes memories of home baking and comforting flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather all your ingredients. Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful cake.
**For the Cake:**
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup buttermilk
* 1 cup apricot jam
**For the Frosting (Optional):**
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 3 cups powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2-3 tablespoons milk (or more, as needed for consistency)
**Equipment:**
* Two 9-inch round cake pans
* Parchment paper
* Mixing bowls
* Electric mixer (stand or hand-held)
* Rubber spatula
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Wire rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create your perfect apricot jam cake.
**1. Prepare the Cake Pans:**
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven.
* Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. Cut out circles of parchment paper to fit the bottom of each pan. Place the parchment circles in the pans and grease them as well. This will ensure the cakes release easily.
**2. Combine Dry Ingredients:**
* In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures the ingredients are evenly distributed, which is important for the cake’s texture.
**3. Cream Butter and Sugar:**
* In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, contributing to the cake’s light and airy texture. This may take 3-5 minutes.
**4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:**
* Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs provide structure and richness to the cake, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
**5. Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients:**
* Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. To start, add about one-third of the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture and mix on low speed until just combined. Then, add half of the buttermilk and mix until just combined. Repeat, adding another third of the dry ingredients, followed by the remaining buttermilk, and finally the remaining dry ingredients. Remember to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
**6. Stir in the Apricot Jam:**
* Gently stir in the apricot jam until it is evenly distributed throughout the batter. The jam adds moisture and the signature apricot flavor to the cake.
**7. Divide and Bake:**
* Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a scale to ensure the layers are equal in size for even baking and a professional look. Spread the batter evenly in each pan.
* Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cakes. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely tent them with aluminum foil.
**8. Cool the Cakes:**
* Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely. Removing the cakes from the pans too soon can cause them to break. Make sure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
**9. Prepare the Frosting (Optional):**
* While the cakes are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Ensure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easy creaming.
* Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined. Then, add the vanilla extract and 2-3 tablespoons of milk. Mix until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your desired consistency.
**10. Frost the Cake:**
* Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top. Place the second cake layer on top of the frosting. Frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
* Get creative with your frosting! You can create swirls, rosettes, or a smooth, even finish. A simple offset spatula is a great tool for achieving a professional look.
**11. Decorate (Optional):**
* Decorate the cake with fresh apricot slices, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. Get creative and personalize your cake to your liking.
Tips for Success
* **Use Room Temperature Ingredients:** Room temperature butter, eggs, and cream cheese blend together more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and frosting.
* **Don’t Overmix:** Overmixing the batter can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
* **Measure Accurately:** Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful cake. Use measuring cups and spoons specifically designed for baking.
* **Cool Completely:** Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
* **Use High-Quality Jam:** The quality of the apricot jam will directly impact the flavor of the cake. Choose a jam with a bright, fruity flavor and a good consistency.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cake batter or frosting.
* **Add Nuts or Spices:** Consider adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for added flavor and texture.
Variations and Adaptations
Apricot jam cake is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your preferences.
* **Spice Cake:** Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves to the dry ingredients for a spiced version of the cake.
* **Nutty Cake:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the cake batter for added texture and flavor.
* **Citrus Zest:** Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the cake batter for a bright, citrusy flavor.
* **Different Frostings:** Experiment with different types of frosting, such as a lemon cream cheese frosting, a vanilla buttercream, or a simple glaze.
* **Jam Alternatives:** While this recipe focuses on apricot jam, you can substitute other types of jam, such as peach, raspberry, or strawberry, for a different flavor profile.
* **Layer Cake:** If you prefer a taller cake, double the recipe and bake three or four layers. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
* **Cupcakes:** Convert the recipe into cupcakes by filling cupcake liners about two-thirds full and baking for 18-20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Apricot jam cake is delicious on its own, but it can also be served with a variety of accompaniments.
* **Whipped Cream:** Serve a slice of apricot jam cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and airy dessert.
* **Ice Cream:** Pair the cake with a scoop of vanilla or apricot ice cream for a decadent treat.
* **Fresh Fruit:** Serve the cake with a side of fresh apricots, peaches, or berries for a refreshing combination.
* **Coffee or Tea:** Enjoy a slice of apricot jam cake with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
* **Dusting of Powdered Sugar:** A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch to the cake.
Storage Instructions
To keep your apricot jam cake fresh, follow these storage instructions.
* **Room Temperature:** Store the frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The frosting will help to keep the cake moist.
* **Refrigerator:** For longer storage, store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let the cake come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
* **Freezer:** You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw the cake layers in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.
Troubleshooting
Here are some common baking issues and how to troubleshoot them:
* **Cake is Dry:** Possible causes include overbaking, using too much flour, or not enough liquid. Make sure to measure ingredients accurately and avoid overbaking. Consider adding a tablespoon or two of milk to the batter if it seems too thick.
* **Cake is Dense:** Possible causes include not creaming the butter and sugar enough, overmixing the batter, or using old baking powder or baking soda. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, mix the batter until just combined, and make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh.
* **Cake is Sinking:** Possible causes include opening the oven door too frequently during baking, using too much liquid, or not baking the cake long enough. Avoid opening the oven door unnecessarily, measure ingredients accurately, and bake the cake until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
* **Frosting is Too Thin:** Possible causes include adding too much liquid or not using enough powdered sugar. Add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
* **Frosting is Too Thick:** Possible causes include not adding enough liquid or using too much powdered sugar. Add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
Apricot Jam Cake Recipe Card
**Yields:** 12 servings
**Prep time:** 30 minutes
**Cook time:** 35 minutes
**Ingredients:**
**For the Cake:**
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup buttermilk
* 1 cup apricot jam
**For the Frosting (Optional):**
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 3 cups powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2-3 tablespoons milk (or more, as needed for consistency)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Stir in apricot jam until evenly distributed.
7. Divide batter evenly between prepared cake pans.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Prepare frosting: In a large bowl, cream together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla extract and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.
11. Once cakes are completely cool, frost the cake.
12. Decorate as desired.
Conclusion
Apricot jam cake is a truly special dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With its moist, tender crumb and the sweet, tangy flavor of apricot jam, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This detailed recipe, along with the tips and variations, will help you create a cake that is both delicious and beautiful. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a memorable apricot jam cake!