Plum crown

Plum crown recipe: a quick and delicious dessert

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 500-700 g ripe plums, preferably from sweet and juicy varieties, such as Damson
- 200 g butter at room temperature, for a fine texture
- 200 g granulated sugar, which will add sweetness and shine
- 4 fresh eggs, which will provide structure and moisture
- 200 g flour, ideal for a fluffy dough
- 1 packet of baking powder, essential for achieving an airy consistency
- 1 teaspoon of orange zest, which will add a subtle fragrance and a note of freshness
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla or rum essence, for a perfect taste
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, which helps bind the ingredients and create a velvety texture

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter and eggs. This will facilitate the even mixing of the composition. Also, wash and cut the plums in half, removing the pits. If you prefer, you can leave them whole, but ensure they are well ripened for nice caramelization during baking.

Step 2: Butter and sugar cream
In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the butter with the granulated sugar until you obtain a fluffy and light-colored cream. This process is essential for incorporating air into the dough, which will make your dessert softer. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

Step 3: Flavoring the dough
Add the vanilla essence and orange zest to the egg and butter mixture, gently mixing to distribute them evenly. These flavors will transform your dessert into a true delicacy.

Step 4: Combining dry ingredients
In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder and cornstarch. This step not only eliminates any lumps but also helps aerate the flour. Begin to incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture slowly to avoid lumps. Mix until there are no traces of flour, but do not overmix.

Step 5: Adding the plums
Carefully fold the plum halves into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed. If desired, you can dust them with a light mixture of sugar and cornstarch before adding them to create a more intense caramelized layer.

Step 6: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking pan with butter or use parchment paper. Pour the dough into the pan, leveling it evenly. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It is important not to open the oven in the first 30 minutes to avoid lowering the internal temperature.

Step 7: Serving
Once the crown has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a pleasant visual effect. Serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweet cream, for a delicious contrast. Add a personal touch by sprinkling some toasted nuts or almond flakes on top, for texture and crunch.

Possible variations:
- Substitute plums with apples or pears for a seasonal version.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture for added flavor.
- You can use salted butter for an interesting flavor contrast.

This plum crown recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious dessert, ideal for any occasion. With each slice, you will bring a touch of joy to the hearts of your loved ones!

 Ingredients: 500-700 g ripe plums, 200 g butter, 200 g granulated sugar, 4 eggs, 200 g flour, 1 packet baking powder, 1 teaspoon orange zest, essence, 1 teaspoon cornstarch.