Plum cake

Plum Cake - A Memorable Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings

The history of plum cake is filled with nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of the days spent around the table when family gathered to enjoy lovingly prepared treats. This quick and simple dessert combines the sweet flavors of ripe plums with the fluffy texture of the dough, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.

The ingredients below are the most important. Make sure you have them on hand, and for the best results, choose fresh, quality ingredients.

Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 egg yolks
- 450 ml lukewarm milk
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 500 g flour
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon of lard (or oil)
- 4 tablespoons sugar (plus sugar for sprinkling on the plums)
- 1.5 kg ripe plums
- 25-30 g fresh yeast (about 2/3 of a small 42 g package)

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the yeast: In a bowl, pour the lukewarm milk. Add two tablespoons of sugar and sprinkle the crumbled yeast by hand. Let the yeast sit in a warm place for 10-15 minutes until it starts to foam on the surface. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In another bowl, put the flour, salt, and the two tablespoons of sugar. Mix these dry ingredients well to combine them.

3. Forming the dough: Add the prepared yeast to the flour mixture, along with the egg yolks and lard. Use a wooden spoon to mix everything until you obtain a homogeneous composition. The dough should be soft, softer than bread dough, but firm enough to be rolled out.

4. Letting the dough rise: Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and shape the dough into a ball. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place, such as an oven with the light on, for 30-40 minutes, or until it doubles in volume.

5. Preparing the plums: During this time, wash the plums well, cut them in half, and remove the pits. Choose well-ripened plums as they will add natural sweetness to your cake.

6. Preparing the baking tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a tray of about 30x40 cm with lard or oil. This will help the dough not to stick and will add a pleasant flavor to the cake.

7. Assembling the cake: Pour the risen dough into the prepared tray. With a spoon dipped in oil, spread the dough evenly over the entire surface of the tray. Arrange the plum halves on top, placing them nicely.

8. Sugar and cinnamon: Generously sprinkle granulated sugar over the plums, followed by the cinnamon. This will add a warm and comforting aroma to your cake.

9. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 40-45 minutes. It is important to check the cake from time to time. When the juice released by the fruits starts to caramelize at the edges, it is a sign that the cake is ready. Make sure not to leave it too long to avoid drying out.

10. Cooling and serving: After the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray. When completely cooled, cut it into pieces and sprinkle powdered sugar and cinnamon on top for an attractive appearance.

Helpful tip: If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can also sprinkle some chopped nuts or almonds over the plums before baking.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other fruits? Of course! This recipe is versatile. You can replace the plums with apples, peaches, or cherries, depending on the season and your preferences.

- How do I store the cake? The plum cake stores well in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it gently before serving.

- What are the nutritional benefits? Plums are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, having a positive effect on digestion and heart health. Additionally, the dough contains carbohydrates for energy, and the lard adds a dose of healthy fats.

Serving suggestions: This delicious cake pairs perfectly with a warm tea or vanilla ice cream. An ideal combination for a relaxing afternoon or to impress guests.

Try this plum cake recipe and enjoy every bite! It is more than just a dessert; it is a sweet memory of moments spent with loved ones. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 2 teaspoons cinnamon 2 egg yolks 450 ml milk 2 tablespoons powdered sugar 500 g flour 1 pinch salt 1 tablespoon lard 4 tablespoons sugar + for sprinkling the plums 1.5 kg ripe plums 25-30 g yeast (the small package has 42 g, so 2/3 of it)