Upside-down cake with plums

Upside-down plum cake: a seasonal delight for your soul

The upside-down plum cake is more than just a dessert; it is a childhood memory, a recipe that reminds us of warm summer days when fresh fruits were just waiting to be transformed into treats. This cake is simple, yet it perfectly combines the sweetness of plums with a fluffy batter, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Moreover, it is a quick recipe, ideal for a Sunday afternoon spent with family or friends.

The total preparation time is about 60 minutes, and this recipe will yield 8 delicious servings. Let’s put on our aprons and start the kitchen adventure!

Necessary ingredients

For the batter:
- 5 eggs
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in vinegar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 essence of rum
- 1 sachet of vanilla sugar
- 50 ml of oil

For the topping:
- 20-25 plums (fresh, well-ripened)
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 50 g of margarine

Necessary tools
- Mixing bowls
- Mixer or whisk
- Baking tray (ideally 20x30 cm)
- Baking paper
- Spatula
- Toothpick for testing doneness

Step by step: Preparing the upside-down plum cake

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential that the egg whites are beaten well, so make sure no traces of yolk remain in them.

2. Beating the egg whites: Use a mixer to beat the egg whites with the sugar until you achieve a firm foam. This process will help the cake become light and fluffy.

3. Adding the yolks: Add the yolks, one at a time, to the egg white foam. Mix gently, without losing the air in the mixture.

4. Incorporating the liquid ingredients: Add the rum essence, oil, and mix again. The oil will add a soft texture to the cake.

5. Mixing the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking soda dissolved in vinegar and the salt. Start incorporating this mixture into the egg composition, mixing carefully to avoid deflating the egg whites.

6. Preparing the tray: Line the tray with baking paper and grease it with margarine. This step is important to prevent the cake from sticking. Sprinkle the 5 tablespoons of sugar on the bottom of the tray, creating a sweet crust.

7. Arranging the plums: Wash the plums, cut them in half, and remove the pits. Place them cut side up, evenly over the sugar in the tray.

8. Adding the batter: Carefully pour the batter over the plums, ensuring it spreads evenly.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray in the oven. Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes. It’s good to do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

10. Inverting the cake: After the cake has cooled slightly, place a larger tray on top and carefully invert it. The plums will now be visible, shining beautifully.

11. Serving: Let the cake cool completely, then cut it into servings and enjoy it alongside a scoop of ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea. It is even better the next day when the flavors have intensified.

Practical tips for a perfect result
- Choose well-ripened but firm plums to avoid them disintegrating during baking.
- You can experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or apples, for a different version of the cake.
- If you like a more intense flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for an even texture.

Nutritional benefits
Plums are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. They are also low in calories, making them ideal for a healthy dessert. Whole grain flour can be used instead of white flour for an extra boost of nutrients.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use canned plums? Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid adding excess liquid.
- How can I store the cake? You can keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. It is best consumed fresh, but it can also be comforting cold.

Delicious combinations
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with light whipped cream. A warm fruit drink or herbal tea will perfectly complete the culinary experience.

The upside-down plum cake is an excellent choice for any occasion, bringing a touch of nostalgia and joy to every slice. Don’t hesitate to share the recipe with your loved ones and create beautiful memories around the table! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 5 eggs, 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in vinegar, a pinch of salt, rum essence, 1 packet of vanilla sugar, 50 ml of oil. Other ingredients: 20-25 plums, 5 tablespoons of sugar, 50g of margarine.