Mrs. Thelma'S Jam Cake
Mrs. Thelma's Jam Cake offers a moist, flavorful treat combining the sweetness of blackberry jam with warm spices and plump raisins. Its rich, tender crumb makes it perfect for special occasions or a comforting afternoon tea. A nostalgic dessert that delights with every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening until smooth and fluffy.
- Gradually add the light brown sugar and cream until light and fluffy.
- Beat the egg yolks separately and add to the creamed mixture.
- Sift together the baking soda, cloves, cinnamon, and flour.
- Combine the blackberry jam and sour milk in a separate bowl.
- Add the sifted dry ingredients and jam mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing gently.
- Stir in the chopped raisins.
- Beat the egg whites until stiff and fold into the batter gently.
- Divide the batter equally into 2 (8-inch) greased cake pans.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of Crisco. You can substitute the raisins with chopped nuts or dried apricots if desired. If sour milk isn't available, mix regular milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes. Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mrs. Thelma's Jam Cake warm or at room temperature, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. This cake makes a delightful dessert for gatherings and complements coffee or tea perfectly. For more ideas, check out other American recipes that celebrate classic flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover jam cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature. This cake also freezes well; wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Thelma'S Jam Cake contains roughly 510 calories, with 9g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 cake?
Absolutely! While blackberry jam is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like raspberry or strawberry jam. Just ensure the jam you choose is of good quality and has a similar sweetness level to blackberry jam for the best results.
Why do I need to fold in the egg whites?
Folding in the beaten egg whites creates a lighter and fluffier texture in the cake. This technique incorporates air gently without deflating the egg whites, which helps the cake rise beautifully during baking.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can make the jam cake a day ahead of serving. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing it in an airtight container. This resting period allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste when you serve it.
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).