Holidays are a time for cherished family traditions, and in my family, nothing symbolizes this more than baking together. My grandmother, the heart of our Christmas celebrations, had a repertoire of treats she made every year. Her lineup always included rich fudge, a coconut cake for my grandfather, and the much-anticipated jam cake. While her fudge and coconut cake recipes remained constant, the jam cake was her experimental canvas—a new recipe graced our table annually. Despite our enthusiastic approval, she was never fully satisfied.
For her, the jam cake was more than dessert; it was nostalgia in every bite. Hailing from a rustic cabin in Kentucky, she had a personal connection to this dessert—known locally as “Kentucky jam cake.” The hallmark of this cake is blackberry jam mixed directly into the batter, creating a unique blend of spice and sweetness. For anyone unfamiliar with this dessert, it might sound unconventional. However, this moist spice cake, paired with luscious caramel frosting, is pure magic.
While traditional recipes are buried in old cookbooks or passed down on handwritten cards, my grandmother had a collection of three versions she often referenced. None fully met her expectations, but I believe I’ve created an easier, equally delicious version that she’d adore.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Using a boxed cake mix minimizes prep time, making this recipe stress-free.
- Rich, Complex Flavors: The tangy blackberry jam and creamy caramel frosting create a perfectly balanced dessert.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Its simplicity and elegance make it a hit at holiday parties or family dinners.
Ingredients Overview
- Spice Cake Mix: A convenient and flavorful base for the cake.
- Blackberry Jam: Provides a sweet-tart contrast and moist texture.
- Dulce de Leche: Shortcut caramel frosting ingredient with rich flavor.
- Eggs, Oil, Water: Standard cake mix additions ensuring structure and moisture.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and oil. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Step 3: Using a tablespoon, drop small dollops of blackberry jam across the surface of the batter, spacing them evenly. With a butter knife, gently swirl the jam into the batter, being careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Bake the cake for 23-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center (avoiding jam pockets) comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool on a rack for at least an hour before frosting.
Step 5: For the frosting, beat softened butter in a medium bowl until creamy. Add dulce de leche and salt, mixing thoroughly. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
Step 6: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. For clean slices, refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour before serving.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Swirl Technique: Be gentle when swirling the jam to avoid it sinking to the bottom.
- Frosting Consistency: Chill the cake slightly for cleaner cuts, as the frosting is soft and creamy.
- Jam Choice: Opt for a high-quality jam for a rich, authentic flavor that shines through.
- Even Baking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
Variations to Try
- Jam Options: Experiment with raspberry or apricot jam for a twist.
- Nuts: Fold chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for added texture.
- Layer Cake: Bake in two 8-inch round pans and stack with frosting between layers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use homemade jam?
A1: Absolutely! Homemade jam enhances the cake’s flavor and authenticity.
Q2: What if I can’t find dulce de leche?
A2: Substitute with a store-bought caramel sauce and adjust the powdered sugar for consistency.
Q3: How do I prevent the jam from sinking?
A3: Ensure you only swirl the jam lightly into the top half of the batter.
Q4: Can this cake be made ahead?
A4: Yes, it stays fresh for up to five days in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Q5: Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
A5: Yes, use a gluten-free spice cake mix and verify other ingredients are gluten-free.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for one day or refrigerated for up to five days.
- Reheating: Allow refrigerated cake slices to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
This easy jam cake embodies the festive spirit of the holidays, blending tradition with simplicity. Its tangy swirls of blackberry jam and creamy dulce de leche frosting make it a show-stopping dessert for any celebration. Every bite is a reminder of the comforting flavors that define the season.
While this version takes shortcuts, it doesn’t skimp on flavor or nostalgia. My grandmother’s adventurous spirit in perfecting her jam cake inspires this recipe, and I’m confident it’s one she’d proudly serve.
For more recipes that capture the essence of cherished family traditions, follow me on Pinterest at Ava Foodie and let’s create culinary memories together!
