Ready for cake in the time it takes your kettle to boil? This incredibly simple jam crumb cake delivers bakery-quality results without any fuss or complicated techniques. The tender, moist cake pairs beautifully with sweet jam pockets and a crispy streusel topping that creates the perfect contrast of textures. Whether you need a last-minute dessert for guests or just want something delicious with your afternoon tea, this foolproof recipe will become your go-to solution.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- All-purpose flour – 230g / 1¾ cups
- Large eggs – 2
- Whole milk – 100ml / ⅓ cup + 1 tbsp, room temperature
- Vegetable oil – 100ml / ⅓ cup + 1 tbsp
- Baking powder – 1½ tsp
- Vanilla sugar – 10g / 1 packet (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
- Salt – pinch
- Granulated sugar – 150g / ¾ cup
- Thick jam or preserves – 150g / ½ cup (apricot, orange, berry, or strawberry)
For the Streusel Topping:
- Unsalted butter – 50g / 3½ tbsp, room temperature
- Granulated sugar – 3 tbsp
- All-purpose flour – 4-5 tbsp
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk together until well combined. Pour in the vegetable oil and room temperature milk, whisking until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour and baking powder directly into the wet ingredients. Using a whisk, mix everything together until you have a smooth batter with no lumps. The consistency should be pourable but not too thin.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
If needed, soften the butter briefly in the microwave until it reaches room temperature. In a small bowl, combine the soft butter, sugar, and flour. Using a spoon and your hands, work the mixture until it forms coarse, crumbly pieces that resemble breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Prepare the Pan
Grease a 22-24cm / 9-inch springform or round cake pan with oil. If using a regular metal pan, line with parchment paper. For silicone pans, simply brush with a light coating of oil.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Take spoonfuls of thick jam and dot them across the surface of the batter, creating small islands of jam throughout. Don’t worry about perfect placement – rustic is beautiful here.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Sprinkle the streusel crumbs evenly over the entire surface, covering both the batter and jam spots. The crumbs will create a delicious crunchy top layer.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 180°C / 350°F. Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cake portion comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing. Serve warm or at room temperature with tea or coffee. The cake actually improves in flavor overnight as the jam settles into the crumb.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 slices
- Calories: Approximately 285 per slice
Nutrition Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Vitamin C: 8% DV (varies by jam type)
- Iron: 6% DV
Why This Recipe is Healthy
This simple cake offers comfort food satisfaction while providing energy from wholesome ingredients. The eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline for brain health, while milk adds calcium and B-vitamins. Unlike many commercial cakes loaded with preservatives and artificial flavors, this homemade version uses real fruit jam that provides vitamin C and antioxidants. The moderate portion size makes it suitable for occasional enjoyment as part of a balanced diet. The quick preparation method means you can enjoy fresh-baked goods without relying on processed alternatives, and the recipe can easily be adapted with sugar-free jams or whole wheat flour for additional nutritional benefits.