Everyday Jam Cake

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or a 9×9-inch square pan. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the jam, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and sugar. Whisk everything together until smooth. The jam will dissolve a bit into the oil and sugar, creating a fragrant base for the cake.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and any optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg if you want a hint of warmth in your cake.

4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start by adding a third of the flour mixture, followed by half of the milk, and continue alternating until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix—stir just until the batter is smooth and everything is well combined.

5. Bake the Cake:

• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
• If you’re using a square pan, check for doneness a little earlier, as square pans tend to bake faster than round ones.

6. Cool and Serve:

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then remove it from the pan and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Once the cake is fully cooled, you can serve it as is, or you can dust it with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish. For an extra special touch, top it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Variations & Tips:

• Different Jam Flavors: The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility. You can use any type of jam you prefer—strawberry, raspberry, apricot, peach, or even a mix of your favorites. The flavor of the jam will infuse the cake, giving it a unique twist each time.
• Add Some Zest: For a citrusy punch, try adding some lemon or orange zest to the batter. The acidity will complement the sweetness of the jam beautifully.
• Mix-Ins: Feel free to add in some extras, like chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds work well), dried fruit, or even chocolate chips for a different texture and flavor profile.
• Spiced Version: For a cozy, fall-inspired cake, sprinkle in some ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger. This spiced version of the cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Make It a Layer Cake: If you want to make a more elaborate version, bake the cake in two layers, frost it with whipped cream or cream cheese frosting, and fill it with more jam for a delightful jam-filled layer cake.
• Storage: This cake stays moist for several days, so it’s perfect for making ahead. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. It also freezes well—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Why This Cake is So Special:

The Everyday Jam Cake is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delightful. It’s a humble cake—nothing fancy, no bells and whistles—but that’s what makes it so charming. The jam adds not only sweetness but also a fruity depth of flavor that shines through in each bite. It’s a nostalgic cake that evokes the comfort of homemade baking, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or sharing with friends and family.

Plus, its versatility makes it a great recipe to adapt based on what you have on hand. Want to make it with strawberry jam today and apricot jam tomorrow? Go right ahead! Each variation brings a slightly different taste experience, ensuring you never get bored of this easy, everyday treat.

The Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a simple, satisfying cake that’s perfect for any occasion, Everyday Jam Cake is your answer. It’s quick to make, uses pantry staples, and offers endless possibilities for flavor combinations. Whether you’re trying to use up some jam or just want a no-fuss dessert that’s perfect for casual gatherings, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Give it a try, and discover how a little jar of jam can transform into a truly delightful homemade cake!

Note: For a more decadent touch, you can frost the cake with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk or cream. Or, try adding some fresh fruit or berries on top for extra color and flavor. Enjoy!