Plum Apricot Pound Cake Recipe
This delectable plum apricot pound cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. Its buttery and tender crumb, infused with the sweetness of apricots or plums, makes it a favorite dessert. The contrasting texture of the soft fruit against the rich cake offers a burst of flavors with every bite. Making this cake is a straightforward process that even novice bakers can enjoy. The recipe incorporates classic ingredients like butter, sugar, and eggs, ensuring a moist and flavorful dessert. With gentle folding, the batter envelops each slice of fruit, creating an inviting appearance. Perfectly portioned servings, each adorned with a piece of fruit, make it visually appealing. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance. Whether serving for afternoon tea or a special dessert, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 250 g butter
- 250 g powdered sugar
- 4 eggs
- 250 g flour
- Apricots or plums
Preparation Time
Total Time: 40 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
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Cream the Butter and Sugar: Begin by creaming 250 g of butter with 250 g of powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
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Add Egg Yolks: One at a time, add the egg yolks to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. Continue beating for about 10 minutes to ensure the mixture is thick and creamy.
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Incorporate Flour Slowly: Gradually sift in 125 g of flour into the creamy mixture, folding it gently to maintain airiness.
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Whisk Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gently fold these into the batter along with the remaining 125 g of flour.
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Prepare Baking Tray: Grease a baking tray and spread the batter evenly, about 2 cm thick.
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Arrange Fruit: Place apricot halves or plum slices over the batter, cut side up, ensuring they are spaced 3-4 cm apart.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 160°C and bake the cake until golden and cooked through, checking with a toothpick.
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Cool and Cut: Allow the cake to cool. Slice the cake so each piece features an apricot half or plum slice in the center.
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Dust and Serve: Before serving, dust the cake slices with powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation.
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Enjoy: Serve as a delectable dessert, allowing the fruity and buttery flavors to take center stage.
Tips
- Substitutions: Use almonds or pecans in the batter for an extra crunch.
- Fruit Options: Fresh apricots or plums are recommended, but canned varieties can be used in a pinch.
- Flavor Additions: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the batter for a deeper flavor.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per slice
- Protein: 4 g
- Fats: 18 g
- Carbs: 36 g
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairing: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Beverage: A hot cup of tea or a glass of sweet white wine complements the cake beautifully.
Best Places
- Café Sluka - Known for its elegant pastries. Location: Kärntner Strasse 13-15, Vienna, Austria.
- Maison Bertaux - A historic patisserie with a cozy atmosphere. Location: 28 Greek Street, Soho, London, UK.
- Café Savoy - Offers traditional Viennese coffeehouse culture. Location: Vítězná 5, Prague, Czech Republic.
- Ladurée Paris - Renowned for its desserts and pastries. Location: Rue Royale 75, Paris, France.
- Demel - Offers exquisite cakes and pastries. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.
- Burlington Café - Known for delightful desserts. Location: 404 Geylang Road, Singapore, Singapore.
- Flour Bakery - Offers a range of baked goods. Location: 617 S, Boylston Street, Boston, MA, USA.
- Konditorei L. Heiner - A Vienna pastry institution. Location: Kärntnerring 13-15, Vienna, Austria.
- Café Sacher - Known for the Original Sacher-Torte. Location: Philharmoniker Str. 4, Vienna, Austria.
- Sybil’s Bakery - Famous for a variety of cakes. Location: 132 Main Street, Georgetown, Guyana.