Taylor Swift dodges Gyllenhaal questions

The 20-year-old songstress got to know Jake, 29, in New York last weekend. They were seen apple picking before attending a recording of hit television show Saturday Night Live and spent the following day exploring the city and enjoying a delicious brunch.

When Taylor recorded an appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show – which will air on Monday - the charismatic host quizzed the pretty county singer for all the latest gossip on her supposed relationship with the movie heartthrob.

"I'm always optimistic about love... always, sometimes," said a wary Taylor, to which Ellen responded by asking whether she’s feeling hopeful right now.

"Well, why wouldn't anyone be?" was the singer’s cryptic reply.

Ellen went on to rib Taylor, telling her she should be positive since she’s dating one of Hollywood’s hottest leading men. She then seriously asked the musician whether she and Jake were “just hanging out”.

Taylor still managed to avoid the question though, by simply retorting that she knows photographic evidence of their dates exists. Photographers caught the handsome pair enjoying each other’s company during their action-packed New York weekend.

"You have a picture of us on the screen, don't you?" she blushed.

Taylor has been linked to a string of good-looking stars in the past, including Twilight beefcake Taylor Lautner and musician John Mayer.

Remarking that Taylor has been known to document failed romances in her song lyrics, Ellen teased Jake may be worried he could appear on a future album if the relationship falters.

"Wouldn't he be nervous if anything goes wrong?” laughed the host.