Introduction to Blueberry Jam Cake
Are you searching for a delightful dessert that’s perfect for impressing friends or winding down after a busy week? Blueberry jam cake could be your new favorite! This scrumptious cake combines the tangy sweetness of fresh blueberries with layers of zesty lemon, making it both vibrant and satisfying.
Why Blueberry Jam Cake is the Perfect Dessert for Young Professionals
As a young professional, you often juggle meetings, deadlines, and social commitments. Finding a dessert that’s simple yet impressive is key. Blueberry jam cake fits the bill perfectly. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and minimal ingredients, you can create a stunning treat without sacrificing your precious time.
This cake is not just about appearances; it’s a crowd-pleaser! The combination of blueberry jam, buttery cake layers, and light blueberry buttercream offers a burst of flavor that will leave your friends and colleagues raving. Plus, you can easily customize it by using store-bought jam or opting for a homemade version. Feel free to explore creative variations!
If you’re interested in learning more about baking cakes with fruits, check out sources like The Kitchn or BBC Good Food. They offer a wealth of helpful tips and techniques to elevate your baking game!
Ingredients for Blueberry Jam Cake
Crafting your very own blueberry jam cake is both delightful and straightforward. Below, you’ll find everything you need to bring this sweet creation from idea to reality, organized for your convenience!
Ingredients for Lemon Blueberry Cake Layers
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
- 1½ cup granulated sugar or caster sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- ¼ cup blueberry jam, store-bought or my homemade recipe
- ½ teaspoon lemon extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of one lemon
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Ingredients for Blueberry Buttercream
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons blueberry jam, store-bought or homemade
- 3 tablespoons milk (plus more for desired spreadability)
Ingredients for Assembly
- ¾ cup blueberry jam, either store-bought or homemade
By gathering these essentials, you’ll be ready to whip up a blueberry jam cake that’s perfect for any occasion—from brunch get-togethers to celebratory soirées. And remember, the magic of baking is in the details; feel free to explore adjustments based on your preferences! For expert tips on making blueberry jam, check out this resource for helpful insights.
Preparing Blueberry Jam Cake
Crafting a blueberry jam cake is not just about following a recipe; it's an experience filled with delightful flavors and fun! Whether you’re prepping for a special celebration or just want to indulge in something scrumptious, this guide will help you through every step. Let’s get started!
Preheat and Prepare the Cake Pans
Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that warms up, grab your two 7.5-inch round cake pans. If you’re using traditional pans, take a moment to grease and flour them to ensure your cake layers slide out easily later. (If you prefer silicone pans, you can skip this step.) It’s small details like this that can make a world of difference in your baking journey!
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1½ cups of granulated sugar. Beat them together on a low speed until the mixture turns light and fluffy, usually about 2 minutes. This step is crucial; it helps the cake layers stay tender, giving you that delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Add the Eggs and Wet Ingredients
Once your butter and sugar are fluffy, it’s time to introduce the eggs! Add them in one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. This helps create a rich, moist batter. Then, mix in 1 cup of plain yogurt, ¼ cup of blueberry jam, lemon zest, and extracts. Blend these together until you have a smooth mixture.
Mix in Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s the dry ingredients' turn! Sift together 2½ cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this into your wet mixture. Be careful not to over-mix; you want a smooth batter that’s just combined. Overworking can lead to a tougher cake!
Bake the Cake Layers
Pour your batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Now it's time to bake! Place the pans in the center of your preheated oven and let them bake for around 45 minutes. It’s always a good idea to check for doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your cake layers are ready! Allow them to cool in the pans for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Make the Blueberry Buttercream
While your layers cool, prepare the blueberry buttercream. In a mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of powdered sugar, 6 tablespoons of melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 3 tablespoons of blueberry jam. Add milk gradually until you achieve a spreadable consistency. This frosting will add a beautiful flavor and color to your blueberry jam cake!
Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers have cooled, it's time for the fun part! Trim any domed tops to create flat layers. Spread about ¼ of your blueberry buttercream on the top of the bottom layer, creating a border around the edge to hold the filling. Inside that border, spread ¼ cup of blueberry jam. Invert the top layer onto the jam to create a smooth surface for frosting. Use the remaining buttercream to frost the top and sides of your cake, finishing with a drizzle of any remaining jam on top.
This blueberry jam cake is not just gorgeous; it's a delicious celebration of summer flavors! Enjoy every bite!
Variations on Blueberry Jam Cake
Lemon Blueberry Jam Cake with Almonds
For a delightful twist on the classic blueberry jam cake, try adding a hint of zest with a Lemon Blueberry Jam Cake infused with almond flavor. By incorporating almond extract and slivered almonds into the batter, you can create a nutty depth that complements the tartness of the blueberries beautifully. This variation is perfect for elevating your dessert game at gatherings or during warm summer evenings.
Gluten-Free Blueberry Jam Cake
For those following a gluten-free lifestyle, this blueberry jam cake can still shine! Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. This adaptation maintains the cake's moist texture and vibrant flavor, allowing everyone to indulge without worry. Celebrate gatherings with a cake everyone can enjoy!
For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking for expert insights on gluten-free substitutes.
Baking Notes for Blueberry Jam Cake
Tips for Perfectly Moist Cake Layers
To ensure your blueberry jam cake layers are moist and tender, remember these key points:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. They incorporate better, resulting in a lighter cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Yogurt Magic: Don’t skip the yogurt—it adds moisture and a subtle tang, enhancing the cake's flavor.
Adjusting Buttercream Consistency
Achieving the right buttercream consistency for your blueberry jam cake is critical for perfect frosting.
- Start Slow: When adding milk, begin with just a few tablespoons; you can always add more if needed.
- Thick but Spreadable: Aim for a thick consistency that can hold its shape while being easy to spread.
- Adjust as Needed: If your buttercream becomes too runny, add a little powdered sugar to thicken it back up.
For more tips on cake baking, consider checking out Joy of Baking for inspiration!
Serving Suggestions for Blueberry Jam Cake
Best Pairings for Your Blueberry Jam Cake
This delightful blueberry jam cake marries beautifully with several accompaniments. Consider pairing it with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a creamy contrast, or serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its fruity sweetness. For a refreshing twist, offer a side of lemon sorbet or a cup of hot tea. The zesty notes of lemon will complement the blueberry flavor perfectly.
Creative Presentation Ideas
Presentation can elevate your blueberry jam cake experience! Display it on a rustic wooden cake stand for a charming touch. Garnish with fresh blueberries and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a pop of color. You can even layer it with edible flowers for added elegance. A drizzle of extra blueberry jam on the plate can turn every slice into a gorgeous centerpiece. Get creative, and make it a treat for both the eyes and taste buds!
For further inspiration, check out these cake decorating essentials that can help you nail the presentation!
Time Breakdown for Blueberry Jam Cake
Understanding the time required for each step in this delicious blueberry jam cake recipe can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Preparation Time
Spend about 15 minutes gathering your ingredients and mixing the batter. Don’t forget to preheat your oven!
Baking Time
Allow approximately 1 hour for your cake layers to bake. Check for doneness with a toothpick after about 45 minutes.
Assembly Time
Once the cakes are cool, plan for around 30 minutes to frost and assemble the layers, ensuring a beautiful finish.
Total Time
In total, you’ll dedicate about 1 hour and 45 minutes to create this delightful treat.
For more tips on perfecting your blueberry jam cake, check out resources like King Arthur Baking for additional insights!
Nutritional Information for Blueberry Jam Cake
Calories
This delightful blueberry jam cake contains approximately 627 calories per slice. While it’s a treat that packs in flavor, it's also important to enjoy in moderation!
Protein
Each slice provides about 5.6 grams of protein, making it a delightful dessert that can contribute to your daily intake. Pair it with a side of Greek yogurt for an added protein boost.
Sodium
With about 304 milligrams of sodium per slice, this cake remains a balanced choice compared to many commercial desserts. Watching your sodium intake? Enjoy it alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing offset.
For more in-depth nutritional insights, you might find resources from the USDA food database helpful!
FAQs about Blueberry Jam Cake
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the Blueberry Jam Cake layers a day in advance. Just let them cool completely and then wrap tightly in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Store at room temperature until you’re ready to frost and assemble. This makes it easier to manage your time, especially for celebrations or gatherings.
How do I store leftover Blueberry Jam Cake?
To keep your Blueberry Jam Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, it should last for about 3-5 days. If you prefer, you can also freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then foil; they will stay delicious for up to three months.
Can I use fresh blueberries instead of jam?
While fresh blueberries can be a delightful addition, they may not achieve the same rich flavor and moisture that blueberry jam provides in the filling. If you're eager to use fresh berries, consider mixing them with a little sugar to create a compote that preserves some of that delicious sweetness. You can find more tips on using fresh fruits in desserts on Serious Eats.
Conclusion on Blueberry Jam Cake
Why You Should Try Making This Cake Today
If you're looking for a deliciously simple dessert to brighten your day, look no further than this blueberry jam cake. It’s perfect for gatherings, or just to enjoy with a cup of tea at home. The delightful combination of lemon, blueberries, and rich buttercream is sure to impress both friends and family!
Blueberry Jam Cake - Easy Blueberry Filled Layer Cake
Equipment
- 2 7.5 inch round cake pans
Ingredients
Lemon Blueberry Cake Layers
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened at room temperature
- 1½ cup granulated sugar or caster sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup plain yoghurt
- ¼ cup blueberry jam store bought or use homemade
- ½ teaspoon lemon extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- zest of 1 lemon
- 2½ cups all purpose flour or plain flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Blueberry Buttercream
- 4 cups powdered sugar or icing sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons blueberry jam store bought or homemade
- 3 tablespoons milk or more, added slowly until spreadable
Assembly
- ¾ cup blueberry jam store bought or homemade
Instructions
Instructions for Cake Layers
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175C/155C Fan) and preparing your cake pans. If using traditional cake pans, grease and flour these. If using silicone, no preparation is needed.
- In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, add the sugar and softened butter. Cream together on a low setting until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.
- Then add the yoghurt, blueberry jam, lemon zest, and extracts. Beat lightly to combine in a smooth batter.
- Sift the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into the liquid mixture and beat or stir until smooth and just combined.
- Pour evenly into prepared cake tins and smooth the tops.
- Bake in the centre of the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, checking until a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean.
- Once done, remove from the oven. Allow to cool in the cake pans for about five minutes before carefully turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Instructions for Blueberry Buttercream
- When ready to assemble, make the easy blueberry buttercream by mixing together the powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and blueberry jam. Add a few tablespoons of milk and stir. Add more slowly as necessary until you reach your desired consistency.
Instructions for Assembly
- For best presentation, level your cake layers by trimming any domed tops off as evenly as possible to create flat tops to the layers.
- Using about ¼ of your frosting, spread a layer of blueberry buttercream over the top of your base cake layer. Then pipe a border around the outer edge of this about 1" thick.
- Add about ¼ cup of blueberry jam inside this icing border and spread out. This will be your blueberry jam cake filling.
- Invert your top layer so that the side you have trimmed and levelled is facing down. Sandwich this onto the blueberry jam.
- Use your remaining blueberry buttercream to frost the top and sides of the cake and top off with the remaining blueberry jam.
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