Plum Cake

Plum Cake - A Delicacy Covered with Aroma and Sweetness

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Welcome to my kitchen! Today I will guide you step by step in preparing a delicious and inviting recipe: plum cake. This cake is perfect for any time of the day, whether served at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as dessert for a family dinner. With a fine texture and juicy plum filling, each bite will be an explosion of flavor.

The story of plum cake is closely linked to autumn traditions, when these seasonal fruits are in full glory. Plums, with their unique sweetness and aroma, have been cherished over time and are used in countless recipes around the world. Whether baked, dried, or turned into jams, plums bring a touch of magic to our dishes.

Let’s begin our culinary journey! Here’s everything you need to know to achieve a perfect plum cake.

Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 250 g sugar
- 100 ml sunflower oil
- 100 ml milk
- 250 g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 500 g plums (about 10-12 plums)
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients at room temperature. It is important that the eggs, milk, and oil are all at the same temperature to allow for even emulsification. Make sure the plums are ripe but not too soft to maintain their shape during baking.

2. Beating the Eggs
In a large bowl, beat the yolks of the 4 eggs with 250 g of sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to achieve a fluffy, light-colored mixture. This is the moment when air will enter the mixture, helping the cake become light.

3. Adding Oil and Milk
Gradually add 100 ml of sunflower oil and 100 ml of milk, continuing to mix gently. The oil will give the cake a pleasant moisture, while the milk adds a velvety texture.

4. Incorporating the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine 250 g of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 2 packets of vanilla sugar. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients. Now, add this mixture to the egg mixture, mixing slowly until everything is combined. It is important not to overmix to avoid a dense cake.

5. Beating the Egg Whites
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks. These will add structure to your cake. Begin to fold the egg whites into the yolk mixture with a spatula, using gentle folding motions to keep the air in the mixture.

6. Preparing the Baking Pan
Line a baking pan with parchment paper. This is an essential step to ensure that the cake will come out easily after baking. If desired, you can grease the paper with a little butter or oil for added safety.

7. Pouring the Mixture
Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, leveling it with a spatula. Now, it’s time to add the plums. Cut the plums in half and remove the pits. Place them cut side up, as close together as possible, to allow them to bake evenly.

8. Baking the Cake
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the oven and bake the cake at high heat for 5 minutes, then reduce the temperature to low and let it bake for about 30-35 minutes. Check if it is baked using a toothpick; it should come out clean.

9. Cooling and Serving
After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut the cake into squares, sprinkle powdered sugar on top, and serve it with a cup of tea or coffee. This cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or sweet cream.

Practical Tips:
- Recipe Variations: You can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as apples or apricots, which pair just as well with this recipe. Additionally, adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips can add a crunchy and delicious note.
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: A serving of plum cake contains approximately 220 calories. Plums are rich in fiber and vitamins, making them a healthy choice for desserts. This cake is an excellent source of antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- How long can I store the cake? The cake keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

A Personal Note
This plum cake reminds me of autumn days spent with my grandmother in the kitchen, when the aroma of ripe plums filled the house. Each bite is a sweet memory, and I hope to bring the same moments of joy and warmth to your kitchens.

I hope you will try this simple and delicious plum cake recipe and that it will become a favorite in your family! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1 teaspoon baking powder, 4 eggs, 100 ml milk, a pinch of salt, 250 g sugar, 100 ml sunflower oil, 250 g white flour, 2 packets of vanilla sugar, 500 g plums