Egg white cake with plums

Fluffy Plum Cake - a simple dessert that brings a touch of joy to any gathering. This recipe combines the flavor of juicy fruits with the light texture of meringue, creating a delight that will conquer even the most demanding taste buds. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this cake is the perfect choice.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 6 egg whites
- 1 egg yolk
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 150 g sugar
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1/2 packet of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
- 8-10 plums, halved

Recipe history:
The egg white cake with plums has deep roots in culinary traditions, often prepared in households of the past, where ingenious ways were sought to use leftover egg whites from other desserts. It quickly became a staple recipe in many families, appreciated for its simplicity and versatility.

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature. This will help achieve a more stable foam. Check that you have all the ingredients on hand and measure them before you start cooking.

2. Beating the egg whites: In a clean bowl, add a pinch of salt to the egg whites. Use an electric mixer to beat them until foamy. It is important that there are no traces of yolk or fat in the bowl, as this can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly. Once they start to thicken, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a shiny and firm meringue.

3. Adding the yolk and dry ingredients: After achieving a perfect meringue, carefully add the yolk, oil, and flour mixed with baking powder. Use a spatula to incorporate the ingredients, gently folding from the bottom up to avoid losing air from the meringue.

4. Flavoring: Don't forget the grated lemon and orange zest! These will add a fresh and aromatic note to your dessert. Add them to the mixture and mix well.

5. Preparing the baking dish: Line a baking dish with parchment paper. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking to the dish and to facilitate cooling and serving.

6. Assembling the cake: Place the plum halves cut side up at the bottom of the dish. Pour the egg white mixture over the plums, ensuring even coverage. Then, place the remaining plum halves on top.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake the cake for about 30 minutes or until it becomes golden and fluffy. You can check if it is done by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.

8. Cooling: Once the cake is done, let it cool in the dish for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. This step helps prevent the cake from becoming soggy.

9. Finishing: Once cooled, sprinkle vanilla sugar or powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance. This detail not only adds extra flavor but also an attractive look.

Serving suggestions:
The fluffy plum cake is delicious served plain, but you can accompany it with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream. A bowl of Greek yogurt with honey and nuts would perfectly complement this dessert, bringing a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors.

Tips and variations:
- You can experiment with other fruits, such as apples or sour cherries, instead of plums. Each variation will offer a different taste and a new culinary experience.
- If you want to enrich the cake, add some chopped nuts or almonds to the mixture for an extra crunch.
- Instead of lemon and orange zest, you can use vanilla or almond extracts to change the flavor profile.

Nutritional benefits:
This cake is relatively light, having a low fat content due to the use of only one yolk and oil. Plums add vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to digestion and immune system health. It is an excellent choice for a dessert that is not only delicious but also beneficial for health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace sugar with a sweetener? Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol. However, it is important to follow the substitution instructions on the packaging to achieve a similar consistency.
- How do I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you keep it longer, it is recommended to refrigerate it.
- Can the cake be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled before wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer container.

Now that you know how to make this fluffy plum cake, all that's left is to gather your friends and family to enjoy this delicacy. Each bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, and you will be appreciated for your culinary talent! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 6 egg whites + 1 yolk, 6 tablespoons of flour, 150 g sugar, 3 tablespoons of oil, 1/2 packet of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of grated lemon + orange peel, 8-10 plums

 Tags:  meringue cake with plums