Sour cake with plums and meringue

Sour Plum Cake with Meringue

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 60-70 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Discover the flavor of a delicious cake that combines the sweetness of plums with the tart note of fluffy meringue. This sour plum cake with meringue is not just a simple recipe, but a true culinary experience. The origins of this cake are lost in history, but what we know for sure is that each bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Let's be carried away by the enticing aromas and get started!

Necessary ingredients

For the base:
- 7 eggs
- 3 egg yolks
- 400 g ripe plums (choose well-ripened plums for an intense flavor)
- 300 g butter (at room temperature)
- 300 g sugar
- 300 g flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of one orange
- 1 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice

For the meringue:
- 3 egg whites
- A little lemon juice
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature, as it will be easier to mix. The plums should be ripe but not too soft, to maintain their shape during baking.

2. Whip the egg whites: In a clean bowl, add the egg whites, a pinch of salt, and lemon juice. Use a mixer to beat them initially on low speed, then increase the speed. Beat until a firm foam forms. This step is essential for a fluffy meringue.

3. Preparing the base mixture: In another bowl, mix the butter with the sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until you get a fluffy cream. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing each yolk with a little sugar and salt, then add the grated orange zest for extra flavor.

4. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually incorporate it into the butter mixture, mixing gently with a spatula from bottom to top, to avoid losing air. Finally, fold in the whipped egg whites, mixing gently.

5. Preparing the baking tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper (the oven tray is ideal) and pour in the base mixture. Spread it evenly and place the halved plums cut-side up. If desired, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon for added flavor.

6. Baking the base: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, depending on your oven. Check if it is baked by using a toothpick – if it comes out clean, it’s done!

7. Preparing the meringue: While the base is baking, prepare the meringue. Whip the egg whites with the sugar until you get a firm foam. Finally, add the lemon juice and cornstarch, continuing to beat to achieve a glossy meringue.

8. Finishing the cake: Once the base is baked, remove the cake from the oven and spread the meringue on top. Use a fork or a kitchen comb to create patterns on the surface of the meringue. Return the cake to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, until the meringue is slightly browned.

9. Cooling and serving: Let the cake cool slightly before cutting. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, and it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea.

Tips and useful advice

- Choosing the plums: Make sure the plums are ripe but not overly soft. Dried or overly soft plums will not provide the same texture.
- Avoid moisture: If you have a fan oven, use it when baking the meringue for a perfect crust.
- Variations: You can replace the plums with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or apricots, to bring a different flavor to your cake.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This cake is a delicious option, but moderate in calories, having about 250 calories per serving, depending on the serving size and ingredients used. Plums are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, having benefits for digestion and skin health.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can experiment with other fruits, but make sure they are suitable for baking.
- How can I tell if the meringue is ready? The meringue is ready when it becomes glossy and firm, without leaving marks on the mixer blades.
- Can I store the cake? It is recommended to consume it in the first few days, but you can keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.

This sour plum cake with meringue will surely become a family favorite, bringing joy and flavor to every meal. Cook with love and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!

 Ingredients: Ingredients: For the base: 7 eggs, 3 egg yolks, 400 g ripe plums, 300 g butter, 300 g sugar, 300 g flour, 1 teaspoon vanilla essence, orange zest, 1 packet of baking powder, a pinch of salt, 1 teaspoon lemon juice. For the meringue: 3 egg whites, a little lemon juice, 5 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch.