Plum Cake
Plum Cake: A Sweet and Fragrant Delight
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 60-65 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Welcome to the world of enticing aromas! Today we will prepare a plum cake that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia, evoking pleasant childhood memories. This cake, with a fluffy base and juicy caramelized plums, is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quiet afternoon at home or a gathering with friends.
The history of fruit cakes owes many of us unforgettable moments spent in our grandparents' kitchens, where the pleasant aroma of baked fruits and vanilla filled the air. This simple and quick recipe will take you back in time to when cakes were made from simple ingredients, but with lots of love.
Necessary ingredients:
For the base:
- 2 eggs
- 12 tablespoons of sugar
- 12 tablespoons of flour
- 9 tablespoons of milk
- 9 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil or light olive oil)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 vanilla essence
For the filling:
- 500 g plums (about 8-10 large plums)
- Powdered vanilla sugar for decoration
Preparation steps:
1. Preparing the plums: Start by washing the plums well with cold water. Remove the pits and cut them into quarters. Carefully place them in a 25/35 cm baking dish lined with parchment paper. Arrange them nicely to cover the entire surface of the dish. This arrangement will not only look good but will also ensure an even distribution of flavors.
2. Baking the plums: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the dish with the plums in the oven and let them bake for 10-15 minutes. This step will help the plums release their juice and become more aromatic.
3. Preparing the base: In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar using a mixer on medium speed until the mixture doubles in volume and becomes frothy. This step is essential for obtaining a fluffy base. Gradually add the milk, oil, baking powder, flour, and vanilla essence, mixing gently with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed. Make sure there are no lumps.
4. Assembling the cake: After the plums have been baked, remove the dish from the oven and pour the base mixture over the plums. Spread the mixture evenly to cover all the plums.
5. Baking the cake: Place the dish back in the oven and let it bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the base turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven in the first 20 minutes of baking to avoid affecting the rise of the base.
6. Unmolding the cake: Once the cake is baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a platter. The plums will now be on top, looking absolutely delicious.
7. Decorating: After the cake has completely cooled, sprinkle powdered vanilla sugar on top for an elegant appearance and an extra touch of sweetness.
8. Serving: Cut the cake into squares and enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee. It is also ideal with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for a contrast of textures!
Practical tips:
- Make sure the plums are well ripe, as unripe plums can add a sour taste to the cake.
- You can also experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or apples, if you want a variation of the recipe.
- If you desire a more intense flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the base mixture.
Nutritional benefits:
Plums are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and also in fiber, aiding digestion. Additionally, they provide a natural sweet taste without requiring a large amount of sugar.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of fruit?
Yes, you can replace the plums with apples, pears, or peaches. Each fruit will add a distinct flavor to the cake.
2. How can I store the cake?
Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, or in the fridge for a longer duration.
3. Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace the flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or rice flour, but keep in mind that the final texture may vary.
This plum cake recipe is an excellent choice for both everyday desserts and special occasions. Whether you prepare it for your family or give it as a gift, your cake will surely be appreciated! Don’t forget to share the recipe with friends and enjoy every delicious slice!
Ingredients: 2 eggs 12 tablespoons of sugar 12 tablespoons of flour 9 tablespoons of milk 9 tablespoons of oil 1 packet of baking powder vanilla essence 500 g plums powdered vanilla sugar
