Best Italian Crumb Cake with Jam Filling

This Italian Crumb Cake with Jam Filling brings old-world charm to your kitchen with its buttery, crumbly texture and sweet jam center. Whether served as a dessert, a sweet breakfast, or an afternoon treat with coffee, it’s a simple yet indulgent slice of comfort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless elegance: Simple ingredients yield a visually and texturally delightful cake.
• Versatile filling: Customize with your favorite jam—strawberry, raspberry, apricot, or fig.
• Perfect texture contrast: A tender base, gooey fruit layer, and crisp crumb topping in every bite.
• Ideal for any time of day: Lovely for brunch, teatime, or dessert.
• No mixer required: Quick to mix and assemble in just one bowl.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 large egg
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup jam (your favorite flavor)
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and set aside.
2. Make the Crumb Base:
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
   Add in melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.
3. Form the Base Layer:
   Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared cake pan.
4. Add the Jam Filling:
   Spread your favorite jam over the crumb base, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent overflow.
5. Add the Crumb Topping:
   Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the jam layer.
   Lightly press the topping to ensure it adheres while still remaining crumbly.
6. Bake the Cake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the jam is bubbling slightly.
7. Cool and Finish:
   Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
   Carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
   Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 8 servings
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Bake time: 35–40 minutes
• Total time: 50–55 minutes
• Approximate calories per serving: 250 kcal

Variations

• Jam swap: Try apricot, blueberry, or fig jam for unique flavor profiles.
• Nutty topping: Add chopped almonds or walnuts to the crumb topping for extra texture.
• Spiced touch: Mix cinnamon or lemon zest into the crumb base for added aroma.
• Mini cakes: Use a muffin tin for individual servings with the same crumble appeal.
• Gluten-free option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought jam?

Yes, any good-quality store-bought or homemade jam will work well.

2. Can I use frozen fruit instead of jam?

No, the jam’s thickness is essential for maintaining structure and sweetness in the filling.

3. Do I need to chill the dough?

No chilling is necessary; the crumbly texture forms naturally when mixed with melted butter.

4. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt to prevent oversalting.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a 9×13-inch pan and increase the bake time slightly (around 45–50 minutes).

6. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

7. Why leave a border around the jam?

Leaving a border helps prevent the jam from seeping over and burning at the edges.

8. Can I use a springform pan?

Yes, a springform pan works well and makes for easy removal.

9. What texture should the cake have?

The base should be tender, the jam gooey, and the topping golden and crumbly.

10. Is this cake served warm or cold?

It can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled—personal preference applies.

Conclusion

The Best Italian Crumb Cake with Jam Filling delivers rustic charm with every bite. Its buttery layers and sweet jam center are perfect for cozy mornings or elegant gatherings. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this cake is a timeless treat you’ll reach for again and again.

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