Plum Cake

Fluffy Plum Cake - Delicious Recipe from Corina

Who doesn't love a fluffy, fragrant cake full of fruits? This plum cake, inspired by Corina's recipe, is the perfect choice for a quick and simple dessert that will delight the taste buds of the whole family. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted with other fruits, making it ideal for any season. Let's get started!

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

Ingredients:
- 3 large eggs (preferably at room temperature)
- 250 g granulated sugar
- 250 g flour
- 100 ml sunflower oil or light olive oil
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (approximately 10 g)
- 400 g plums (fresh or canned, depending on the season)
- A little butter for greasing the pan

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature, as this helps achieve a fluffy texture. If using fresh plums, wash them well and let them drain.

2. Mixing the eggs and sugar: In a large bowl, add the 3 eggs and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer and beat them at medium speed until the mixture becomes frothy and the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is essential to incorporate air into the mixture, giving the cake a light and fluffy texture.

3. Adding the wet ingredients: While continuing to mix, add the oil and vanilla sugar. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully integrated.

4. Including the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This will help to homogenize the mixture and prevent lumps from forming. Add the flour mixture to the bowl with the eggs and sugar, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until you obtain a uniform and smooth composition.

5. Preparing the pan: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking pan (approximately 30x20 cm) with a thin layer of butter, ensuring you cover the edges well. This step is important to prevent the cake from sticking.

6. Pouring the mixture: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, leveling it with the help of a spatula. This ensures even baking.

7. Preparing the plums: Cut the plums in half and remove the pits. Place them cut side up, evenly sprinkling them over the batter. You can let your imagination run wild and add other seasonal fruits like apples or peaches for a personalized version.

8. Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the cake for 25-30 minutes. Check if it is baked by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

9. Cooling and serving: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. When it has completely cooled, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant and delicious appearance.

10. Serving suggestion: Served plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake becomes a refined dessert perfect for any occasion. You can also accompany it with a cup of tea or coffee for a moment of indulgence.

Variations and useful tips:
- You can replace the plums with apples, cherries, or peaches, depending on your preferences. Each variation offers a distinct note and unique flavor.
- If you want a more intense taste, add a few drops of almond essence to the batter.
- The next day, the cake becomes even tastier, making it an excellent choice to prepare in advance.

Nutritional benefits:
This plum cake is a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, thanks to the fresh fruits. Plums are known for their digestive effects and are rich in fiber, making them a healthy choice.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen fruits? Yes, frozen fruits can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the cake.
2. How can I store the cake? Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze it to keep it longer.
3. What type of flour can I use? White flour is the most suitable, but you can also try whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

In conclusion, this fluffy plum cake is not only easy to make but also a delight that will bring joy to your tables. Experiment with various fruits and enjoy the moments spent around the table, sharing the cake with your loved ones!