A Moist, Spiced Cake Filled With Rich Jam, Perfect For Any Occasion – A Southern Classic With A Delicious Twist!
This Tennessee Jam Cake is a beloved Southern dessert that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of fruit jam. I decided to make it because I wanted a cake that was both flavorful and comforting, with just the right balance of spice and sweetness. The cake is incredibly moist thanks to the addition of jam, and the rich flavor of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove makes it the perfect treat for any season.
My family loves this cake because it’s both nostalgic and unique, with a lovely texture that pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether for a holiday gathering, a family reunion, or just because, this Tennessee Jam Cake always brings smiles to our table!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I use a different type of jam?
A: Absolutely! While traditional Tennessee Jam Cake uses fruit jam like peach or strawberry, you can substitute with your favorite jam, such as apricot, blackberry, or even fig.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, this cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Q: How can I make this cake even more flavorful?
A: You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of bourbon for an extra layer of flavor. You could also top it with a simple glaze or cream cheese frosting for added sweetness.
Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to also check the jam for any added gluten-containing ingredients.
Q: Can I use a bundt pan instead of a round cake pan?
A: Yes, you can use a bundt pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time, as it may take a little longer to bake depending on the size of your pan.
What You Need to Make Tennessee Jam Cake
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (peach, strawberry, or your choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
For the Frosting (optional):
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (to reach desired consistency)
How to Make Tennessee Jam Cake
1. Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one bundt pan.
2. Mix the dry ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
3. Mix the wet ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, jam, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix until smooth.
4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Bake the cake:
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes for round pans, or 40-45 minutes for a bundt pan, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Make the frosting (optional):
In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and milk to achieve your desired consistency.
7. Assemble the cake:
Once the cakes have cooled, frost them with the cream cheese frosting. If you’re using a bundt pan, you can drizzle the frosting over the top for a more rustic look.
8. Serve and enjoy:
Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy the warm, spiced flavors and the delightful jam sweetness!
Tips
- For extra moistness: Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil or melted butter to the batter.
- Customize the jam: Experiment with different fruit jams to create new flavor combinations.
- For a more decadent finish: Drizzle the cake with a caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Reader Reviews
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Megan P. – “This cake is incredible! The combination of spices and jam makes it so flavorful. It’s definitely one of my new favorite cakes!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Rachel S. – “I made this for a family gathering, and it was a hit! It’s so moist, and the frosting is the perfect touch. I’ll be making this again for sure!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Lena T. – “This cake is a total game-changer! The jam adds such a great depth of flavor, and the spices make it so comforting. I can’t stop eating it!”
🌟🌟🌟🌟 Sophie W. – “I loved how easy this cake was to make. The flavors are perfect, and the texture is so soft. I made it with peach jam, and it turned out delicious.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Jessica L. – “This cake is so moist and flavorful! I served it at a party, and everyone asked for the recipe. It’s definitely a keeper.”
Printable Recipe
Tennessee Jam Cake
This Tennessee Jam Cake is a spiced, moist cake with a rich jam filling that’s perfect for any occasion. The warm spices and sweet jam make it an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup fruit jam (peach, strawberry, or your choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- For the Frosting (optional):
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (to reach desired consistency)
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one bundt pan.
Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set aside.
Mix the wet ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, jam, and vanilla extract (if using). Mix until smooth.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake the cake:
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes for round pans, or 40-45 minutes for a bundt pan, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the frosting (optional):
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Assemble the cake:
- Once the cakes have cooled, frost them with the cream cheese frosting. If you're using a bundt pan, you can drizzle the frosting over the top for a more rustic look.
Serve and enjoy:
- Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy the warm, spiced flavors and the delightful jam sweetness!
Check out some of our other recipes / crafts.
Blissful Blueberry Shortcake Cake
If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
If you loved this Tennessee Jam Cake, please share it with your friends and family! It’s a simple, flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Share it on social media and tag me – I’d love to see how your cake turns out!
