Pudding and Plum Cake

The vanilla pudding and plum cake is a dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of the fruits with the creaminess of the pudding, offering a delightful tasting experience. This simple and delicious recipe will surely become your favorite for indulgent moments, whether it's a Sunday afternoon or a special occasion.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 50-55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 6 large eggs
- 250 g sugar
- 200 g butter, softened at room temperature
- 140 g natural yogurt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 320 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the vanilla pudding:
- 500 ml milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 3 and 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons vanilla sugar
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 500 g ripe plums
- 1 teaspoon powdered sugar for decoration

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the vanilla pudding

1. Start by making the vanilla pudding to give it time to cool. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until they become frothy and light yellow.
2. Add a few tablespoons of milk and the cornstarch, mixing well to avoid lumps. It is important to properly incorporate the cornstarch, as it will help the pudding achieve a creamy texture.
3. In a pot, bring the remaining milk to a boil. When it starts boiling, pour in the egg yolk mixture, constantly whisking to prevent the eggs from curdling.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, stirring constantly, until it thickens. This process may take a few minutes, but it is essential to be patient and keep stirring.
5. Once the pudding has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool, covering it with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming on the surface.

Step 2: Preparing the base

1. In another large bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar until it becomes a fluffy cream. This step is crucial, as the air incorporated into the mixture will make the base fluffier.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. It is important for the eggs to be at room temperature for better incorporation.
3. Gradually add the flour and baking powder, mixing on low speed. Do not overmix; you just want to combine the ingredients without developing the gluten in the flour.
4. Finally, add the yogurt and vanilla extract, mixing with a silicone spatula to achieve a homogeneous and airy composition.

Step 3: Assembling the cake

1. Wash the plums well, then cut each fruit into 3 pieces and remove the pits. The plums should be ripe but not too soft to maintain their shape during baking.
2. Prepare a baking tray (37 x 24 cm) by greasing it with butter and lining it with parchment paper. This trick will make it easier for the cake to release after baking.
3. Pour the base mixture into the tray and level it with a spatula. Then, add the vanilla pudding, pouring it gently over the base to avoid mixing.
4. Arrange the plum pieces evenly on top of the pudding and sprinkle vanilla sugar over them to add a hint of flavor.

Step 4: Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the cake for 50-55 minutes.
2. Perform the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If not, leave it for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Serving

1. After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tray. This step is important as it allows the flavors to stabilize.
2. Once cooled, cut the cake into squares and sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance.

Practical tips

- Plums: Choose ripe but firm plums. Dried or overly soft plums will not provide the same texture.
- Vanilla sugar: You can use homemade natural vanilla sugar for a more intense flavor.
- Yogurt option: If you want a lighter cake, you can use Greek yogurt or soy yogurt.
- Storing the cake: The cake keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days.

Nutritional benefits

This vanilla pudding and plum cake contains protein (from the eggs and yogurt), as well as vitamins and minerals from the plums. Plums are high in fiber, which aids digestion and contributes to heart health.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can replace the plums with apples, peaches, or cherries, depending on the season.
- What drinks pair well? An herbal tea or a sweet wine would perfectly accompany this cake.
- How can I enhance the flavor? Adding cinnamon to the batter or lemon zest to the pudding can provide an interesting aromatic note.

Conclusion

The vanilla pudding and plum cake is not just a dessert but a culinary experience that brings together unique flavors and textures. Enjoy it plain, alongside a scoop of ice cream or a caramel sauce, and let yourself be carried away by memories and moments filled with warmth and love. With each slice, you will discover a family story, a moment of indulgence, and perhaps a new favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For the cake base: 6 eggs, 250 g sugar, 200 g butter, 140 g natural yogurt, 2 teaspoons vanilla essence, 320 g flour, 1 baking powder. For the vanilla pudding: 500 ml milk, 2 egg yolks, 3 and 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch, 2 teaspoons vanilla sugar, 3 tablespoons sugar, 500 g plums, 1 teaspoon powdered sugar.