Kentucky Jam Cake Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 3 large eggs 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1/2 cup (120ml) blackberry or strawberry jam 1/2 cup (120ml) blackberry or strawberry jam
• 1 cup (200g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) 1 cup (200g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• Caramel Frosting: Caramel Frosting:
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 68g, 50g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
3. 3.
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
6. 6.
   Divide the batter equally between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
7. 7.
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
8. 8.
   Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. 9.
   Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of blackberry or strawberry jam on top of one cake layer. Sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans, if desired. Place the second cake layer on top.
10. 10.
    For the caramel frosting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
11. 11.
    Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
12. 12.
    Let the caramel frosting cool for a few minutes, then pour it over the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
13. 13.
    Allow the frosting to set before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming.
• Buttermilk — If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Walnuts or pecans — Feel free to omit the nuts if you have allergies or prefer a nut-free version.
• Caramel frosting — Be patient when pouring the caramel frosting over the cake to allow it to set and create a beautiful dripped effect.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cloves or ginger to the cake batter.
• To enhance the fruity flavor, use homemade blackberry or strawberry jam.
• If you prefer a smoother frosting, you can sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the caramel mixture.
• Decorate the top of the cake with additional chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch.
• Serve the Kentucky Jam Cake slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Serving advice

Slice the Kentucky Jam Cake into generous portions and serve it on dessert plates. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Presentation advice

Present the Kentucky Jam Cake on a cake stand or a decorative platter. Dust the top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Garnish the sides with fresh berries or mint leaves to add a pop of color.