Plum Cake

Plum Cake: A Simple and Refined Delight

If you are looking for a quick, easy-to-make dessert recipe full of flavors, I invite you to discover this plum cake. It is a perfect combination of textures and tastes, and each bite will take you on a wave of sweetness and cinnamon aroma. This cake is ideal for serving at a gathering with friends or at a family meal, and it will surely leave an unforgettable impression.

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

The History of Fruit Cakes

Fruit cakes have a long history, being prepared in various cultures over time. They bring together simple yet flavorful ingredients, transforming fruits into sweet delights. The use of plums, with their sweet and tangy flavor, makes this cake a favorite for many, thanks to the perfect combination of sweetness and the fruit's acidity.

Ingredients

For the base:
- 500 g flour
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 150 g sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 150 ml milk (you can use almond milk for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the topping:
- 500 g pitted plums, halved

For the filling:
- 3 egg whites
- 2 whole eggs
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons sour cream (for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt)
- 4 tablespoons flour

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the base
1. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Make sure they are well combined to achieve an even base.
2. Add the cubed butter and sugar. Use a mixer or, if you prefer, mix by hand until you get a sandy mixture.
3. Add the egg yolks, then the milk, and continue mixing until the dough becomes smooth. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
4. Grease a 20/30 cm baking dish with butter and dust it with flour or baking paper. Spread the dough evenly in the dish, using your fingers to smooth it out.

Step 2: Prepare the topping
1. Place the plum halves on top of the dough. Sprinkle a little sugar and cinnamon over the plums to enhance the flavor. This will be a delicious detail that will elevate the dessert.

Step 3: Prepare the filling
1. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy and airy filling.
2. In another bowl, mix the two whole eggs with sugar and vanilla extract until you have a smooth mixture.
3. Add the sour cream and flour, gently mixing until all ingredients are combined. Then, gradually fold in the beaten egg whites, being careful not to deflate them.

Step 4: Assemble the cake
1. Pour the filling over the plums, smoothing it out with a spatula. This will create a delicious and airy layer on top of the plums.

Step 5: Bake the cake
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is firm and passes the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Step 6: Cool and serve
1. Allow the cake to cool completely in the dish. Then, cut it into squares and serve. It can be enjoyed plain or with a dollop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream.

Helpful Tips
- Choose ripe plums: The taste of the cake will depend greatly on the quality of the fruit. Choose ripe but firm plums to avoid a soggy filling.
- Variations: Instead of plums, you can use peaches or apples to vary the recipe. Each fruit will give a unique flavor to the cake.
- Storage: The cake keeps well in a sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it, but make sure it is well covered.

Nutritional Benefits
Plums are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this cake not only a delicious choice but also a healthy one. Additionally, the butter and eggs add healthy fats and proteins, thus balancing the dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can replace the plums with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or cherries.
- What drinks pair well? A cup of black tea or a cold lemonade are excellent combinations to complement the cake's flavor.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegan butter, flaxseed or chia eggs, and plant-based milk.

Wishing you lots of inspiration in the kitchen! Enjoy and don't forget to share this delicious cake with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: For the base: 500g flour, 200g butter, 1 baking powder, 150g sugar, 3 egg yolks, 150ml milk, 1 baking powder. For the topping: 500g pitted plums. For the filling: 3 egg whites, 2 whole eggs, 6 tablespoons sugar, 1 vanilla essence, 4 tablespoons sour cream, 4 tablespoons flour.

 Tags:  plum cake fruit cakes plum