The Ultimate Guide to Gulab Jamun Cake: Recipe, Nutrition, and Calories
Gulab Jamun Cake is a delicious fusion dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of the traditional Indian sweet Gulab jamun with the rich, moist texture of a Western-style cake. Whether you’re a fan of classic Indian sweets or an adventurous foodie seeking new flavors, Gulab Jamun Cake is a perfect choice.
This article dives deep into everything you need to know about this decadent treat. From a step-by-step recipe and variations to detailed nutritional information and calorie breakdowns, we’ve got it all covered. Let’s explore how this dessert can become the centerpiece of your celebrations!
What is Gulab Jamun Cake?
Gulab Jamun Cake is a hybrid dessert that marries the soft, syrup-soaked gulab jamun with a tender, spongy cake. Typically flavored with cardamom, rose, and saffron, this dessert delivers a taste of luxury. The base of the cake absorbs the essence of gulab jamun syrup, while the gulab jamun pieces add bursts of sweetness and texture in every bite.
This dessert is perfect for festivals, weddings, birthdays, or any special occasion. Its growing popularity lies in its ability to cater to both traditional Indian palates and modern dessert enthusiasts.
Ingredients for Gulab Jamun Cake
To create this delightful dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cake Base
- All-purpose flour (maida) – 2 cups
- Granulated sugar – 1 cup
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup, softened
- Milk – 1 cup
- Eggs – 2 large (or use flaxseed egg substitute for a vegetarian version)
- Baking powder – 2 teaspoons
- Cardamom powder – 1 teaspoon
- Rose water – 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
For the Syrup
- Sugar – 1 cup
- Water – 1 cup
- Cardamom pods – 2, crushed
- Rose water – 1 teaspoon
- Saffron strands – A pinch
For the Gulab Jamun
- Gulab jamun mix – 1 packet (or make from scratch using khoya)
- Ghee or oil – For frying
For Decoration
- Whipped cream or buttercream frosting
- Chopped pistachios
- Edible silver leaf (optional)
- Gulab jamun pieces
Gulab jamun cake recipe
Step-by-Step Gulab Jamun Cake Recipe
Preparing the Gulab Jamun
- Make the dough: Follow the instructions on the gulab jamun mix packet or prepare from scratch using khoya and flour.
- Shape and fry: Roll into small balls and fry them in ghee until golden brown.
- Soak in syrup: Prepare the sugar syrup with water, sugar, cardamom, rose water, and saffron. Soak the fried gulab jamuns until soft and syrupy.
Preparing the Cake Base
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cardamom powder.
- Cream butter and sugar: In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Gradually add the flour mixture and milk, alternating between the two. Add vanilla extract and rose water.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Assembling the Cake
- Cool the cake: Let the cake cool completely before slicing it in half horizontally.
- Add syrup: Drizzle Gulab jamun syrup over the layers to soak them slightly.
- Add Gulab jamun pieces: Place small pieces of Gulab jamun between the layers.
- Decorate: Frost the cake with whipped cream or buttercream, and garnish with pistachios, silver leaf, and whole Gulab jamuns.
Variations of Gulab Jamun Cake
- Eggless Gulab Jamun Cake: Use yogurt or flaxseed eggs as a substitute for eggs.
- Chocolate Gulab Jamun Cake: Add cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate twist.
- Layered Gulab Jamun Trifle: Serve as layers in a glass with cream and syrup for a modern presentation.
Gulab Jamun Cake Nutrition Facts
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutrition per serving (approx. 100 grams):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 49 g |
| Sugars | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
| Calcium | 20 mg |
| Iron | 1.5 mg |
Calories in Gulab Jamun Cake
The calorie count in Gulab -Jamun Cake largely depends on the ingredients and portion size. On average, a 100g serving of this dessert contains about 320-350 calories. To reduce the calorie content, consider using low-fat milk, reducing the sugar, or opting for baked Gulab- jamuns instead of fried ones.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with masala chai for an Indian-inspired tea-time treat.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Present in mini sizes for an elegant party platter.
FAQs
What makes Gulab -Jamun Cake unique?
Its combination of Indian flavors like cardamom and saffron with the moistness of a Western cake makes it stand out.
Can I make Gulab- Jamun Cake vegan?
Yes, use plant-based butter, almond milk, and a flaxseed egg substitute.
How long does Gulab- Jamun Cake stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it stays fresh for 3-5 days.
Can I freeze Gulab- Jamun Cake?
Yes, freeze it without the frosting for up to a month. Thaw and frost before serving.
What frosting works best with Gulab- Jamun Cake?
Whipped cream, rose-flavored buttercream, or cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully.
Is Gulab- Jamun Cake very sweet?
It can be, but you can adjust the sweetness by reducing the sugar in the syrup and frosting.
Conclusion
Gulab- Jamun Cake is the perfect dessert that brings together the best of Indian sweets and Western cakes. Whether you’re hosting a festive celebration or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this cake is a showstopper. With our detailed recipe, variations, and nutritional insights, you’re all set to create and savor this masterpiece.
READ MORE:https://bakewithzoha.com/gulab-jamun/
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