Summertime staple: blackberry jam cake recipe from southern living to cool you down

Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of summer with our mouthwatering Blackberry Jam Cake recipe, inspired by the culinary traditions of the beloved Southern Living magazine. This delectable cake combines the juicy sweetness of fresh blackberries with a tender, fluffy cake batter, creating a dessert that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the heart of the South.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Cake:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Blackberry Jam Filling:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Making the Cake:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the buttermilk and softened butter. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Making the Blackberry Jam Filling:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Assembling the Cake:
1. Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a cake plate. Spread with half of the blackberry jam filling.
2. Top with the second cake layer. Spread the remaining blackberry jam filling over the top.
3. Frost the cake with the cream cheese frosting.

A Southern Delight: Tips for a Perfect Blackberry Jam Cake

• For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe blackberries. If using frozen blackberries, thaw them before using.
• If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Do not overmix the cake batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• If desired, decorate the cake with fresh blackberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

The Sweetest Memories: Blackberry Jam Cake as a Southern Tradition

Blackberry jam cake holds a special place in Southern cuisine, evoking memories of summer gatherings and family traditions. The combination of sweet blackberries, fluffy cake, and creamy frosting creates a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this Blackberry Jam Cake recipe from Southern Living will guide you towards a culinary delight that will impress your loved ones and become a cherished memory in your own Southern story.

What People Want to Know

Q: Can I use a different type of berry in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute blackberries with raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries.
Q: How can I make the cake gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Q: Can I make the cake in advance?
A: Yes, the cake can be made up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Q: How do I store the leftover blackberry jam cake?
A: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What can I do if the frosting is too thick?
A: Add a little bit of milk or cream to the frosting to thin it out.