If you love desserts that carry a story and a burst of flavor in every bite, then you’ll be thrilled to discover this Russian No-Bake Jam Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful treat that transforms simple ingredients and leftover cake crumbs into an indulgent, moist, and textured dessert, bursting with fruity sweetness and nutty crunch. This no-bake wonder is not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic way to enjoy the nostalgic spirit of homemade Russian cakes without any oven fuss. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Russian No-Bake Jam Cake Recipe lies in its humble yet essential ingredients. Each one adds a key element, from texture and moisture to that satisfying sweetness and spice that makes this cake so unforgettable.
- Yellow or white cake (1 9-inch): Use store-bought or homemade, crumbled finely to form the cake’s base and provide texture.
- Raspberry jam (1/4 cup): Adds luscious fruitiness and moisture, binding the crumbs together perfectly.
- Rum or orange juice (1/4 cup): Soaks into the mixture adding flavor depth; rum gives a classic richness, orange juice a bright twist.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (1/2 cup): Introduce crunch and nutty warmth that contrast the softness of the cake.
- Raisins or dried fruit, chopped (1/2 cup): Provide bursts of natural sweetness and chewiness.
- Chopped maraschino cherries (1/4 cup): Give pops of color and a unique sweet tartness typical of traditional recipes.
- Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
- Vanilla frosting (1 1/2 cups): Smooth and creamy, perfect for coating the cake and adding sweetness.
- Colored sugar or sprinkles: For cheerful decoration to finish your masterpiece.
How to Make Russian No-Bake Jam Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Crumbs
Start by crumbling your yellow or white cake into a large mixing bowl. The texture of the crumbs should be fine enough to hold together, but not too powdery. This base is what will soak up all the delicious flavors and turn into a moist cake without any baking involved.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients and Fruits
Add the raspberry jam and your choice of rum or orange juice to the cake crumbs. The jam adds richness and a fruity punch, while the rum or juice injects moisture and flavor complexity to the mix, making it wonderfully cohesive.
Step 3: Mix in the Nuts, Dried Fruits, and Spices
Now, toss in chopped walnuts or pecans, raisins or other dried fruit, chopped maraschino cherries, and a dash of cinnamon. These components create exciting textures and layers of taste, blending the soft, crunchy, sweet, and aromatic all in one bowl.
Step 4: Form the Cake
Once thoroughly mixed, line a 9-inch round cake pan with plastic wrap. Press the cake mixture firmly into the pan to form an even, compact layer. This step is crucial because it gives the cake its shape and solidity when chilled.
Step 5: Chill to Set
Cover the pan and refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours. This chilling process allows the ingredients to bind well together, firming the cake into a sliceable dessert without needing any oven time.
Step 6: Frost and Decorate
After chilling, invert the cake onto a serving plate. Spread the creamy vanilla frosting evenly over the top and sides, then finish by decorating with colored sugar or sprinkles for that extra festive flair.
How to Serve Russian No-Bake Jam Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh fruit, like raspberries or sliced strawberries, can add a bright, juicy contrast to the creamy frosting. A light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar also works beautifully for a simple, elegant finish.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the creamy texture. A cup of hot tea or coffee rounds out the experience perfectly, balancing sweetness and providing a warm companion to the rich cake.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, you could transform this cake into mini individual portions by pressing the mixture into cupcake liners. Alternatively, layering the mixture and frosting in clear glasses creates a stunning parfait-style dessert that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, maintaining its moist texture without drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake without frosting by wrapping it in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to one month and thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving for best results.
Reheating
This no-bake cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. Simply take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before serving to soften the frosting and enjoy its full flavor.
FAQs
Can I use any other type of jam in the Russian No-Bake Jam Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute raspberry jam with any jam of your choice like strawberry, apricot, or even mixed berry jam. Each will add a unique fruity flavor to the cake.
Is it essential to use alcohol in this recipe?
Not at all. The rum adds a nice depth and traditional touch, but orange juice is a fantastic alcohol-free alternative that keeps the cake moist and flavorful.
What other nuts can I use besides walnuts or pecans?
Feel free to experiment with almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios depending on your taste preference or what you have on hand. Just be sure to chop them finely for better texture integration.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free cake base and ensure your jam and other ingredients do not contain gluten. This makes a delicious gluten-free dessert option with all the same great flavors.
How long should I let the cake chill for best results?
At least 2 hours is recommended to allow the mixture to firm up properly. However, chilling overnight will enhance the flavors and make the cake even easier to slice.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Russian No-Bake Jam Cake Recipe enough for anyone seeking a rich, flavorful dessert without turning on the oven. It’s a special comfort food that feels homemade and nostalgic with just the right balance of sweetness, fruitiness, and texture. Give it a try, share it with friends, and watch it disappear at your next gathering!
Print
Russian No-Bake Jam Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Russian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Russian Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert made by combining crumbled cake with raspberry jam, nuts, dried fruits, and a hint of cinnamon. The mixture is pressed into a pan, chilled until firm, then inverted and topped with vanilla frosting and colorful sprinkles. This traditional treat is an excellent way to use leftover cake scraps, resulting in a rich, flavorful, and easy-to-make dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Mixture
- 1 (9-inch) yellow or white cake (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup raspberry jam
- 1/4 cup rum or orange juice (for soaking)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried fruit (chopped)
- 1/4 cup maraschino cherries (chopped)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Decoration
- 1 1/2 cups vanilla frosting
- Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Crumbs: Crumble the 9-inch cake into a large mixing bowl until broken into small pieces.
- Add Mix-ins: Pour in the raspberry jam and rum or orange juice, then add the chopped nuts, raisins or dried fruit, maraschino cherries, and cinnamon to the bowl with the cake crumbs.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix everything thoroughly with a spatula or your hands until the ingredients are well blended and the mixture sticks together like a thick dough.
- Shape the Cake: Line a 9-inch round cake pan with plastic wrap. Press the cake mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan to form a solid layer.
- Chill to Firm: Cover the pan and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours so the cake mixture can set and firm up.
- Invert and Frost: After chilling, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. Remove the plastic wrap and spread the vanilla frosting evenly over the top.
- Decorate and Serve: Sprinkle colored sugar or festive sprinkles over the frosting for decoration. Slice and serve the cake at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Russian Cake is traditionally made from leftover cake scraps and bakery trimmings, making it a great way to reduce waste.
- You can use any kind of jam or dried fruit based on your preference or availability.
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute rum with orange juice or another fruit juice.
- Chilling time is essential to allow the cake to set properly before frosting.
