Plum Cake

Indulge in the rich, fruity flavors of plum cake, a classic dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia. This moist cake features juicy plums, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Ideal for gatherings or a simple treat at home, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create this delightful dish!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups fresh plums, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup milk
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 45-50 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 36g carbohydrates, 3g protein, and 2g fiber. This is calculated based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the sliced plums gently into the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool slightly before removing it from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, consider using honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener.

Serving and Pairings

Plum cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Serve it alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover plum cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave for a few seconds. Freezing is also an option; wrap it tightly and store for up to 3 months.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to an uneven texture.
• Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense.
• Using unripe plums can result in a less flavorful cake.
• Skipping the greasing of the pan may cause the cake to stick.
• Not allowing the cake to cool before removing can lead to crumbling.

Helpful Tips

• Use ripe but firm plums for the best flavor and texture.
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Adjust the sweetness based on the ripeness of the plums.
• Experiment with different fruits for a varied taste.

FAQs

Can I make plum cake ahead of time?

Yes, plum cake can be made ahead of time and stored. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

What type of plums are best for this cake?

Use ripe, juicy plums like Santa Rosa or Italian plums for the best results, as they add the ideal balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I use dried plums instead?

Dried plums can be used, but they will need to be rehydrated in warm water for about 30 minutes before adding them to the batter.

Is this plum cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze plum cake. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to three months for best quality.

Can I substitute eggs in this recipe?

Yes, you can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs if you want a vegan version. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.

Conclusion

Plum cake is a delightful dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of plums. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with friends or family, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and savor the delicious flavors!

Plum Cake

Indulge in the rich, fruity flavors of plum cake, a classic dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: plum cake, dessert, baking, fruit dessert

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 10 minutes minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 250kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups fresh plums pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup milk
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
• Fold in the sliced plums gently into the batter.
• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool slightly before removing it from the pan. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Fiber: 2g