Delicious Plum Cake Recipe

This delightful plum cake is a perfect blend of soft, buttery cake with the sweet and slightly tart flavor of plums. The cake offers a moist texture with a tender crumb, while a hint of spices adds warmth and depth. The plums, nestled into the batter, caramelize beautifully as the cake bakes, creating a charming and rustic appearance. Ideal for dessert or a sweet afternoon treat, this plum cake is easy to prepare and sure to impress guests. It's a wonderful way to utilize fresh plums when in season and can be served with a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of musky spices and fruitiness is irresistible. With straightforward instructions, even a novice baker can achieve excellent results. Enjoy the comfort and elegance of this plum cake, whether for a special occasion or just because.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 250 g all-purpose flour
• 100 g unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 200 g granulated sugar
• Fresh plums, halved and pitted

Spices:

• 1 tsp baking powder
• A pinch of nutmeg
• Ground cinnamon (for topping)

Topping:

• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Preparation Time

Total time: 55 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a cake pan lightly with butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir well to incorporate the dry ingredients.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Gradually pour in the melted butter into the egg mixture, continuing to whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until a smooth batter forms.
6. Prepare your plums by halving them and carefully removing their pits.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
8. Neatly arrange the plum halves on top of the batter, cut side up, pressing them slightly into the batter.
9. Transfer the cake to the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes.
10. In the meantime, mix powdered sugar with a bit of cinnamon for the topping.
11. After 30 minutes, remove the cake briefly and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top.
12. Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean.
13. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
14. Dust with additional powdered sugar if desired before serving.
15. Slice and serve the plum cake warm or at room temperature for best flavor.
16. Store any leftovers covered at room temperature or refrigerate for longer storage.
17. Enjoy the rich, buttery cake paired with the juicy sweetness of baked plums.
18. For extra flair, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream on the side.
19. Take a moment to appreciate the delightful aroma and beautiful presentation before savouring your creation.
20. Savor the perfect balance of spices and fruit in every comforting bite of this homemade plum cake.

Tips

• Substitution: If plums are out of season, try using other fruits like peaches or apricots.
• Nut-free: Skip the nutmeg and cinnamon if you have allergies, or replace them with a safe alternative.
• Texture: If you prefer a crunchier texture, add a handful of chopped nuts to the batter.

Nutritions

Optional: Approximately per serving - Calories: 320, Protein: 5g, Fats: 14g, Carbs: 45g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blend.
• Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute or reduce sugar for a less sweet version.
• Vegan option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and butter with coconut oil.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of vanilla ice cream or a scoop of fresh cream.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
• Pair with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a lovely afternoon treat.

Best Places

• Cafe Sabarsky - A stylish café offering an array of European-style pastries, including plum desserts. Location: 1048 5th Ave, New York, USA.
• Café Central - An elegant spot known for traditional Viennese cakes. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Konditorei Buchwald - Famous for their classic German cakes and pastries. Location: Bartningallee 29, Berlin, Germany.
• Belmond Reid’s Palace - Luxurious dining with views and delectable plum treats. Location: Estrada Monumental 139, Funchal, Madeira, Portugal.
• Café de la Paix - Iconic French café known for desserts in a beautiful setting. Location: 5 Place de l'Opéra, Paris, France.
• Godiva Café - Offers a rich selection of chocolate-infused and fruit cakes. Location: 5600 A Beach Blvd Suite 113, Buena Park, USA.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - Renowned for their exquisite Italian pastries. Location: Via Montenapoleone 9, Milan, Italy.
• Ladurée - Elegant tearoom famous for pastries and confections. Location: 16-18 Rue Royale, Paris, France.
• Sketch - Quirky and artistic dining space with a delightful high tea experience. Location: 9 Conduit St, London, UK.
• Buvette - Cozy and quaint spot offering rustic brunch and desserts. Location: 42 Grove St, New York, USA.