Almond and Coconut Sheet Cake Filled with Jam

Jam cakes take me back to my childhood. My mother who happens to make the  best jams, used to put them almost in all her cakes. Here is a simple sheet cake that requires nothing than a bit of time. The batter is made of almond flour, shredded coconut and all-purpose flour with a strawberry jam filling that gives a hint of indulging sweetness.

The cake comes to my mind when I am short of time but still want something tasty. It could equally be shared as a valued treat or as well as a casual afternoon cake. I even love it for breakfast with a cup of coffee. You can use your preferable flavor of jam. Your house will be filled with wonderful aromas and this will be your new favorite. Take my words for it.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1/3 cup, desiccated coconut, and some extra for garnish
• 1 cup sugar
• 200 g/ 7 oz. butter, softened
• 4 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2/3 cup of strawberry jam
• ½ teaspoon almond extract

Directions:

1. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature.
2. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F. Place a rack in the center of the oven.
3. Grease a 35x27cm/ 14×11 inches baking sheet.
4. Combine the flour, almond flour, shredded coconut, baking powder and salt.
5. Using an electric mixer on medium speed beat butter and sugar until fluffy.
6. Add the eggs one at a time and beat for 1 minute.
7. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix with a wooden spoon at this stage. Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula and make sure all ingredients are well incorporated.
8. Transfer half of the batter to the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly.
9. Evenly spread the jam over the batter.
10. Top with the remaining batter and delicately spread over the jam.
11. Bake in the oven for about 30 minutes or until you insert a toothpick in the cake and it comes out clean.
12. Remove from the oven and set aside until the cake cools. Cut into equal squares and sprinkle some desiccated coconut over each square. Enjoy!!