Old-Fashioned Jam Cake

Experience a taste of nostalgia with the Old-Fashioned Jam Cake, a cherished family favorite passed down through generations. Janet Robinson from Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, recalls her Aunt Murna’s fond memories of baking this delightful cake during her youth. Over the years, Aunt Murna refined the recipe to create a true family treasure, now enjoyed as a beloved staple at their family reunions.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup raisins
• 1 can (8 ounces) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup baking cocoa
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 jar (12 ounces) or 1 cup blackberry jam
• ⅔ cup buttermilk
• 1 cup chopped pecans

PREPARATIONS:

1. Combine raisins and pineapple in a small bowl and let it stand for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with jam and buttermilk, beating well after each addition. Stir in the raisin mixture and chopped pecans.
3. Spread the batter into two greased and floured 9-inch round baking pans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cake for 10 minutes before removing from the pans and transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
4. For the icing, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and milk. Bring to a boil and then remove from heat. Cool the mixture until it reaches a warm temperature. Pour into a large bowl and beat in enough confectioners’ sugar to achieve a spreading consistency. Frost the cake between layers and cover the top and sides with the caramel icing.

YIELD: 12-16 servings

PREP TIME: 25 minutes

COOK TIME: 40-45 minutes

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• The raisins and pineapple combination should be soaked for at least 30 minutes to enhance the cake’s flavors.

TIPS:

• To achieve the perfect spreading consistency for the caramel icing, gradually add confectioners’ sugar while beating the mixture.

The Old-Fashioned Jam Cake carries the essence of family traditions and cherished memories, passed down through the generations in the heart of Kentucky. Janet Robinson’s Aunt Murna lovingly created and refined this delightful cake, making it a treasured part of their family reunions.

This unique cake, infused with raisins and crushed pineapple, captures the warmth and flavors of Christmas with its blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The addition of blackberry jam adds a burst of fruity sweetness, making each bite a delightful surprise.

The moist and flavorful layers of the Old-Fashioned Jam Cake are a testament to Aunt Murna’s culinary expertise, while the chopped pecans bring a delightful crunch to the overall texture. Combining the rich caramel icing, the cake becomes an indulgent treat that satisfies the senses.

Hailing from the heart of Kentucky, the birthplace of jam cake, this delightful creation holds a special place in the hearts of Tennesseeans as well. The traditional flavors and lovingly crafted layers evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of times gone by and the joy of gathering with loved ones.

As you savor each bite of the Old-Fashioned Jam Cake, you’ll not only taste the deliciousness of the treat but also the cherished memories and love that have been baked into it over the years. Carry on this treasured tradition by sharing this cake with your own family and friends, creating new memories and keeping the spirit of Aunt Murna alive.