Syrup-soaked cake with plums

Syrupy Plum Cake: An Unforgettable Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 12

Discover the magic of plum cake, a recipe that combines the sweetness and aroma of fresh fruits with a fluffy and moist base, perfect for enjoying both warm and cold. This cake is a true treat that will fill your home with an irresistible fragrance and transform any meal into a celebration.

A Bit of History

Fruit cakes have a long-standing tradition, being made throughout the ages in various corners of the world. They symbolize the joy of the harvest and are often associated with family celebrations. This plum cake is a modern reinterpretation of these classic recipes, bringing a touch of innovation and flavor.

Ingredients

- 1 kg ripe plums
- 5 eggs
- 5 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 5 tablespoons sparkling water
- 5 tablespoons sour cream
- 7 tablespoons sugar
- 8 tablespoons flour
- 6 tablespoons ground walnuts
- 1 packet baking powder
- 1-2 tablespoons cinnamon (to taste)
- A pinch of salt

Practical Tips for Ingredients

- Plums: Choose ripe but firm plums. Overripe plums can release too much water and make the cake too moist.
- Oil: Sunflower oil is ideal, but if you prefer a richer taste, you can opt for extra virgin olive oil.
- Sour cream: Use full-fat sour cream for a richer, moister base.
- Walnuts: Ground walnuts add a delicious flavor, but you can also experiment with ground almonds or hazelnuts.

Preparation Techniques

1. Preparing the Plums: Start by washing the plums, cutting them in half, and removing the pits. Season them with cinnamon and refrigerate to cool slightly.

2. Preparing the Batter: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until frothy, about 5-7 minutes. It’s essential to beat the eggs well to achieve a fluffy cake.

3. Adding Moist Ingredients: Add the oil, sparkling water, and sour cream, gently mixing to avoid losing air in the batter.

4. Incorporating Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, ground walnuts, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this mixture to the egg mixture, stirring with a silicone spatula or a wooden spoon.

5. Separating the Batter: Reserve 1/4 of the batter. To the remaining batter, add 2 tablespoons of flour to thicken the mixture.

6. Baking the First Layer: Grease a 24x36 cm baking pan (avoid parchment paper as it may stick) and pour in the first layer of batter. Place the pan in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20 minutes.

7. Adding the Plums: After 20 minutes, remove the pan, add a layer of plums, pour in the reserved batter, and top with another layer of plums. Return to the oven for another 20 minutes.

8. Cooling and Serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting. The syrup released by the plums will soak into the base, giving it a moist and flavorful texture.

Possible Variations

- Add spices: Instead of cinnamon, you can use nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor.
- Mixed fruits: Substitute plums with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or apples, for a different take on the recipe.
- Glaze: A simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice can add an elegant finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

The cake can be served plain or topped with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a contrast of textures. A cup of fruit tea or flavored coffee will perfectly complement this dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned plums?: Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid.

2. Can the cake be frozen?: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze individual portions, ensuring they are well wrapped to prevent drying out.

3. How long does it last?: The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it will be best within the first 2 days.

Nutritional Benefits

This cake is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins from plums, which are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals. The flour and nuts provide protein, while the sour cream adds a boost of calcium.

Surely, the syrupy plum cake will become a family favorite, especially on cool autumn days. Enjoy every bite and create sweet memories with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: 1 kg plums, 5 eggs, 5 tablespoons of oil, 5 tablespoons of mineral water, 5 tablespoons of sour cream, 7 tablespoons of sugar, 8 tablespoons of flour, 6 tablespoons of ground walnuts, salt, 1 packet of baking powder, cinnamon

 Tags:  plum cake fruit cake