Grandma Turner'S "Old Fashion" Jam Cake*
A rich, moist jam cake with dried fruit and warm spices, perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings, offering comforting flavors and versatile make-ahead convenience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar and butter together.
- Add eggs, blackberry jam, cooked dried fruit, and buttermilk; mix well.
- Incorporate spices, flour, and raisins (rolled in some flour) into the batter and stir thoroughly.
- Pour the batter into two well-greased and floured large pans.
- Bake slowly at 350°F until well done, approximately 60 minutes.
- Cool the cakes in pans for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Frost with caramel icing.
- Best made ahead for 3 to 5 days for moisture.
- Can be frozen for extended storage.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of dried fruits like figs or apricots in place of the cooked dried fruit. If you prefer a lighter cake, substitute half of the butter with applesauce. Adding a bit of orange zest can enhance the flavor profile as well. Remember to roll the raisins in flour to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This jam cake pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. It can be served plain or with a generous layer of caramel icing for added sweetness. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Fresh Christmas Eggnog during the holiday season, creating a cozy and nostalgic dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the freezer. To reheat, slice and warm in the oven at a low temperature or microwave briefly for a soft, comforting dessert.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Turner'S "Old Fashion" Jam Cake* contains roughly 2116 calories, with 33g protein, 322g carbohydrates, and 95g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (265% of the Daily Value), iron (108% of the Daily Value), and calcium (84% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of jam for this recipe?
Absolutely! While blackberry jam is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like raspberry, strawberry, or even orange marmalade. Just ensure the jam you choose complements the spices in the cake for the best flavor.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don't have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before adding it to your batter, which will yield a similar tangy flavor.
How can I make this cake more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider incorporating chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the batter. You can also decorate the frosted cake with seasonal fruits or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).