Blackberry Jam Cake. Ozella Seffner. Recipe

Blackberry Jam Cake has a long and rich history in American baking. Originating in the southern region of the United States, this delightful cake is loved for its moist texture, fruity flavor, and indulgent frosting. The recipe for Blackberry Jam Cake has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their unique touch to make it their own.

Fun Fact: While blackberry jam is the star ingredient of this cake, it is interesting to note that other fruit jams can also be used as a delicious alternative. Variations of this cake with strawberry, raspberry, or even apricot jam have been enjoyed by many dessert enthusiasts.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for Ozella Seffner's Blackberry Jam Cake:

Ingredients:
- 2/3 cup of butter
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1 cup of blackberry jam
- 1/2 cup of sweet milk
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups of flour
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon of cloves
- 1/4 cup of chopped citron
- 1 cup of walnuts or hickory nuts
- Vanilla flavoring

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.

3. Gradually add the blackberry jam, sweet milk, and eggs to the creamed mixture. Mix well until fully combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, allspice, and cloves.

5. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Fold in the chopped citron and nuts, along with a dash of vanilla flavoring.

7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

9. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Now, it's time to decide how to fill and frost your Blackberry Jam Cake. Traditionally, this cake can be filled between layers using either frosting or fig paste. You can choose your favorite frosting recipe, such as cream cheese frosting or buttercream, to complement the flavors of the cake. Alternatively, fig paste can be made by simmering dried figs with a bit of water until they soften, then processing them into a smooth and spreadable consistency.

Once your cakes are filled, you can frost the outside with your chosen frosting or spread a thin layer of fig paste for a unique twist. Get creative with any additional decorations, such as fresh blackberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Similar recipes to Blackberry Jam Cake include Hummingbird Cake, which features crushed pineapple and banana, and Jam-filled Thumbprint Cookies, where the jam is the star of the show in a bite-sized treat. Another comparable dessert is the Raspberry Ripple Cake, where raspberry jam is swirled through a moist sponge.

However you choose to enjoy it, the Blackberry Jam Cake is a delectable treat that will surely satisfy any sweet tooth while providing a taste of tradition.