Old Fashioned Jam Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Old Fashioned Jam Cake offers a moist, flavorful treat blending the sweetness of jam and preserves with warm spices and nuts. Its rich, fruity taste makes it perfect for family gatherings or cozy afternoons, showcasing a nostalgic classic with a delightful texture and inviting aroma.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups jam
  • 3 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 5 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 teaspoon soda
  • 1/2 pint pear or peach preserves
  • 1/2 cup nuts
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup butter
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa
  • 1 cup raisins
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy; add the jam and mix well.
  2. Beat the eggs and gradually add the buttermilk.
  3. Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg together.
  4. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, then fold in the nuts and raisins.
  5. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
  6. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can substitute the jam with fruit preserves or even apple sauce for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds. To enhance the chocolate flavor, try adding an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder. This cake pairs beautifully with Coconut Island Cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of the jam cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. It pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. For a festive touch, consider garnishing with fresh fruit or a dusting of powdered sugar. This cake is perfect for gatherings alongside other American recipes like Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cake.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover jam cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To keep it fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. When ready to enjoy, reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old Fashioned Jam Cake contains roughly 497 calories, with 10g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

497 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.1g 20% DV
Total Fat 18.8g 24% DV
Carbs 76.5g 28% DV
Fiber 11.1g 40% DV
Sugar 24.4g 49% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 318.5mg 14% DV
Potassium 1091mg 23% DV
Cholesterol 9.5mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 24.5mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 37.9mg 42% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 243.7mg 19% DV
Iron 4.8mg 27% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 different types of jam for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any flavor of jam you like, such as strawberry, raspberry, or apricot. Each type will impart a unique flavor to the cake, making it versatile and customizable to your taste preferences.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk, or can I substitute it?

While buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using to achieve a similar acidity.

How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon of it to mimic the binding properties of gluten. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavor without the gluten.

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).

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