Zavetu Plumju Cake

Zavetu Plumju Cake is a delightful dessert, renowned for its rich flavors and unique combination of ingredients. The cake is moist and flavorful, primarily due to the incorporation of dried plums, which add a natural sweetness and a chewy texture. The aromatic blend of cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg infuse the cake with a warm, spicy fragrance that's perfect for cozy gatherings or as a comforting treat. Topped with a lemon glaze, the cake is both elegant and inviting, making it ideal for special occasions or simply indulging your sweet tooth. The preparation is straightforward, requiring just a bit of blending and baking, ensuring even novice bakers can achieve great results. For those seeking to impress with minimal fuss, this cake is a versatile choice. Whether served with a warm beverage or as a standalone dessert, each bite promises to be a rewarding experience. With its simple yet sophisticated taste profile, Zavetu Plumju Cake is sure to become a go-to recipe for many.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 200 g dark brown sugar
• 300 g flour
• 100 g olive oil
• 150 ml water
• 100 g dried plums (soaked)

Spices:

• 1 teaspoon cardamom
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• A pinch of salt

Glaze:

• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 150-200 g powdered sugar
• Dried plums
• Coconut flakes

Preparation Time

• Total time: 60 minutes (including preparation and cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Place a saucepan over medium heat and combine the dark brown sugar, olive oil, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Stir these ingredients until well mixed.
2. Blend the soaked dried plums into a puree consistency and add it to the saucepan. Warm the mixture without bringing it to a boil.
3. Once the mixture cools, incorporate the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything until a uniform batter is achieved.
4. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) and grease a cake pan.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even cooking.
6. Place the pan in the oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by combining the fresh lemon juice and powdered sugar. Mix until a thick, smooth texture develops.
8. Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool briefly before applying the glaze. Use a spatula or brush to spread the glaze evenly across the surface.
9. Transfer the cake to the refrigerator to allow the glaze to set. This should take about 15 minutes.
10. Finely chop the remaining dried plums and use them to decorate the cake, along with a generous sprinkling of coconut flakes.
11. Cut into slices and enjoy this sumptuous dessert either on its own or with a cup of tea or coffee.
12. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, use dark roast cardamom and Ceylon cinnamon.
• Substitute olive oil with coconut oil for a different aromatic touch.
• For a nutty texture, consider adding chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approx. 320 per serving
• Protein: 4 g
• Fats: 10 g
• Carbs: 55 g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Replace regular flour with almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free version.
• Vegan: Ensure all components, like the glaze, are free from animal derivatives by using agave syrup instead of powdered sugar.
• Low Sugar: Reduce the sugar content by substituting with stevia or another artificial sweetener.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with herbal tea or a robust coffee for a comforting experience.
• Ideal as a brunch item alongside fresh fruit salad.

Best Places

• Noma - A high-end restaurant offering a modern take on traditional desserts. Location: Refshalevej 96, 1432 København K, Denmark.
• Osteria Francescana - Known for its exquisite Italian pastries and cakes. Location: Via Stella, 22, 41121 Modena MO, Italy.
• The Fat Duck - Offers an innovative dessert experience with intricate flavors. Location: High St, Bray, Maidenhead SL6 2AQ, United Kingdom.
• Café Central - A classic Viennese coffeehouse serving a wide array of cakes. Location: Herrengasse 14, 1010 Wien, Austria.
• Dominique Ansel Bakery - Famous for inventive pastries and its welcoming atmosphere. Location: 189 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA.
• Le Meurice - Known for luxurious desserts crafted with precision in Paris. Location: 228 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.
• Tatte Bakery & Cafe - Popular for its pastries and cozy ambiance. Location: 70 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
• Zuni Café - Offers a unique twist on traditional desserts within a bistro-styled space. Location: 1658 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA.
• Café Savoy - Known for its coffee and cake offerings in an elegant setting. Location: Vítězná 5, 150 00 Praha 5, Czech Republic.
• Pierre Hermé Paris - Offers some of the finest confections with artistic presentation. Location: 72 Rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris, France.