Fine cake with nectarines and plums
Fine cake with nectarines and plums - a homemade delicacy that combines the flavors of seasonal fruits into a truly special dessert. This recipe is not just a simple dish, but an invitation to cook, savor, and share beautiful moments with loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to pamper your family, this cake will delight any sweet lover.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12
Ingredients
For the shortcrust pastry:
- 200 g of flour (mixed with a teaspoon of baking powder)
- 100 g sugar
- 125 g butter (or margarine) at room temperature
For the base:
- 200 g cold butter (or margarine), cut into cubes
- 200 g sugar
- 3 eggs
- 200 g flour (mixed with a sachet of baking powder)
- Vanilla essence (to taste)
For decoration:
- 5-6 plums (ripe)
- 5-6 nectarines (ripe)
- 2 sachets of vanilla sugar
A little history
Fruit cakes have always been an excellent way to make the most of seasonal harvests and bring a touch of freshness to everyday desserts. The combination of plums and nectarines is unique, with each fruit contributing its sweetness and flavor. This traditional recipe, with deep roots in culinary culture, has been passed down from generation to generation, each adding its personal touch.
Step-by-step instructions
1. Preparing the shortcrust pastry:
- In a bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Ensure the mixture is homogeneous to achieve an even dough.
- In another bowl, mix the softened butter with the sugar until you obtain a fluffy cream. This step is essential to incorporate the air needed for the cake to be airy and light.
- Gradually incorporate the flour mixture, stirring gently until you obtain an even dough. When the dough is ready, roll it out between two sheets of baking paper, forming a thin sheet.
- Place the dough in the baking tray lined with baking paper and bake in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes, until it becomes lightly golden.
2. Preparing the base:
- In a large bowl, place the cold butter cut into cubes and the sugar, then mix until they become a homogeneous and fluffy cream.
- Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is well incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix the flour with the baking powder and vanilla essence, then incorporate this mixture into the butter and egg cream, stirring gently until you obtain a uniform compound.
- Pour the base dough over the already baked shortcrust pastry and level it with a spatula.
3. Adding the fruits:
- Wash the plums and nectarines well, then cut them into quarters. It is important to choose ripe but firm fruits to avoid them breaking down during baking.
- Arrange the quarters of plums and nectarines evenly on the surface of the dough, gently pushing them into the base mixture to integrate them.
4. Baking the cake:
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven at 180°C for 30-35 minutes or until it is well browned and passes the toothpick test.
- Once the cake is ready, take it out of the oven and sprinkle the vanilla sugar on top. This will add an extra flavor and a shiny appearance.
5. Cooling and serving:
- Let the cake cool slightly before cutting it into squares. It is ideal to let it cool completely to set the texture well.
- Serve the cake plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Give it an elegant touch by sprinkling roasted almond flakes or a fresh mint leaf.
Tips and tricks
- Choosing fruits: Opt for quality fruits that are ripe but firm to achieve a cake with a perfect texture.
- Alternative with other fruits: If you do not have nectarines or plums, you can use peaches, apples, or even raspberries to create a delicious cake adapted to the season.
- Storing the cake: It can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for a few days, but it is recommended to consume it within 3-4 days to enjoy the freshness of the fruits.
Nutritional benefits
This fruit cake is not only delicious but also offers nutritional benefits. Plums are rich in fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C, contributing to the health of the immune system. Nectarines, on the other hand, are a good source of antioxidants and can help maintain healthy skin.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the result will vary depending on the type of flour used.
- Can the cake be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the cake. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap to avoid excessive freezing.
Serving suggestions
The fine cake with nectarines and plums pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or a morning coffee. You can also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Now that you have all the necessary information, I encourage you to try this wonderful recipe for cake with nectarines and plums. Each bite will bring a smile to your face and to those you love! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: Shortcrust pastry: 200 g of flour mixed with a teaspoon of baking powder, 100 g sugar, 125 g butter or margarine. Base: 200 g butter or margarine, 200 g sugar, 3 eggs, 200 g flour mixed with a packet of baking powder, vanilla essence. Decoration: 5-6 plums, 5-6 nectarines, 2 packets of vanilla sugar.
