Blessed Plum Cake

Drunken Plum Cake - A Delicacy with a Story

The Drunken Plum Cake is a recipe that combines tradition with refinement, resulting in a sophisticated dessert, perfect for special occasions or simply to pamper loved ones. This delicious cake is characterized by the intense aroma of dried plums infused in alcohol and a fine whipped cream, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Let’s discover together how to prepare this wonderful dessert!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

*For the base:*
- 1/4 cup milk (approximately 60 ml)
- 2 tablespoons butter (approximately 30 g)
- 3/4 cup flour (approximately 90 g)
- 3 eggs
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2/3 cup sugar (approximately 130 g)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt

*For the cream:*
- 400 ml heavy cream (36% fat)
- 1 packet vanilla
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- 200 g pitted dried plums
- 100 g flavored alcohol (cherry liqueur or brandy)

*For finishing:*
- 1 packet chocolate-flavored Cremole
- 300 ml milk
- a few drops of liqueur essence for flavor
- coconut (approximately 8 tablespoons)

*Optional - for an alternative glaze:*
- 100 g dark chocolate
- 50 g butter
- 50 ml liquid cream

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Plums
Start by soaking the dried plums in alcohol. This step is essential as it allows the fruits to absorb the flavor of the alcohol, enriching the taste of the cake. Let the plums sit in the alcohol for 5-6 hours.

2. Preparing the Base
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar using a mixer. Continue mixing for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy and triples in volume. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy base.

3. Adding the Flour
Sifting the flour with the baking powder is an important step to avoid lumps. Add the sifted flour to the egg and sugar mixture, mixing with a wooden spatula using circular motions from top to bottom. This will help maintain air in the batter.

4. Incorporating the Milk with Butter
Heat the milk together with the butter until just before boiling. Remove from heat and add a few tablespoons of the obtained batter, mixing well to homogenize the composition. Then pour the mixture into the batter and gently mix.

5. Baking the Base
Prepare a baking tray by greasing it with butter and dusting with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the batter into the tray and place it in the preheated oven at 190 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes. Check if it is baked using a toothpick; it should come out clean.

6. Cooling the Base
After baking, let the base cool on a rack. If you want to remove it more easily from the tray, you can place the tray on a towel dampened with cold water for a few minutes.

7. Preparing the Cream
While the base cools, you can prepare the cream. Whip the cream with sugar and vanilla until it becomes firm. Add the plums drained from the alcohol, cut into suitable pieces, and gently mix to distribute them evenly in the cream.

8. Assembling the Cake
Cut the base into two equal horizontal parts. Spread each layer with the obtained cream and stack them. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

9. Finishing the Cake
After the cake has chilled, prepare the Cremole according to the package instructions and spread it over the cake. Sprinkle coconut on top for a decorative look and an extra burst of flavor.

10. Alternative Glaze
If you prefer a glaze, you can melt the dark chocolate with the butter and cream. Mix until homogeneous, then pour over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.

Practical Tips
- Make sure the plums are of good quality, without additives, to achieve the most natural taste.
- You can experiment with different types of alcohol, each bringing a distinct flavor to the cake.
- If you want a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of sugar in the cream or use unsweetened whipped cream.

Nutritional Benefits
The Drunken Plum Cake contains plums, which are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They contribute to healthy digestion and have beneficial effects on the skin. Additionally, the cream provides calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh plums instead of dried plums?
We do not recommend this, as the texture and flavor of dried plums are essential for this cake.

2. How can I keep the cake longer?
You can keep it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. The cake can also be frozen, but it is recommended to thaw it slowly in the refrigerator.

3. Can I replace Cremole with something else?
Yes, you can use a chocolate glaze or even a cream cheese for a different taste.

Serving and Pairings
The Drunken Plum Cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of aromatic coffee or black tea. Additionally, a glass of sweet wine or a fruit liqueur can enhance the flavors of the dessert.

So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious cake that not only looks spectacular but also offers an explosion of flavors. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the base: 1/4 cup milk, 2 tablespoons butter, 3/4 cup flour, 3 eggs, 3 egg yolks, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 2/3 cup sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt. For the cream: 400 ml heavy cream (36%), 1 packet of vanilla and 2-3 tablespoons of sugar, 200 g dried plums without pits, 100 g flavored alcohol (can be cherry brandy or cognac). For finishing: 1 packet of chocolate-flavored cream and 300 ml milk, a few drops of liqueur essence for flavor, about 8 tablespoons of coconut. If you do not wish to finish with cream, you can make a glaze from: 100 g dark chocolate, 50 g butter, 50 ml liquid cream. Melt the chocolate together with the butter and cream and mix until smooth.