Fruit Cake (Plums)

Fruit cake is a dessert that brings a touch of joy to every corner of the home, with a long history in culinary traditions. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Additionally, it is an excellent way to use seasonal fruits, such as plums, as well as other fruits like apricots, peaches, or apples. Get ready to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of the fruits combined with a soft and fluffy dough!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 4 medium eggs
- 10 tablespoons of milk (approximately 250 ml)
- 100 g sugar (or more, depending on preferences)
- 100 ml oil (sunflower oil or light olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (approximately 10 g)
- 200 g flour (sifted)
- 500 g plums (or other fruits of your choice)
- 4 egg whites (for foam)
- 150 g sugar for egg white foam

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the eggs and milk are at room temperature to achieve a better homogenized dough. Sifting the flour is essential to avoid lumps and to achieve a fine texture.

2. Separating the eggs: Crack the eggs and separate the yolks from the whites. It is important to use a clean bowl for the egg whites, as any trace of fat can hinder their foaming.

3. Preparing the mixture: In a large bowl, mix the yolks with the milk. Use a mixer to incorporate the sugar, beating at maximum speed until the mixture becomes creamy and frothy. This is the secret to a fluffy dough.

4. Adding the oil: Continuing to mix, gradually add the oil in a thin stream to ensure even emulsification. Mix until everything is well combined.

5. Incorporating the flour: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Then, add the flour mixture to the other ingredients, gently mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. The dough should be soft and elastic but not runny.

6. Preparing the baking pan: Take a baking tray (approximately 30x20 cm) and grease it with a thick layer of margarine. This will help the cake release. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the margarine, ensuring that the entire surface is well covered. It is preferable to use breadcrumbs instead of flour, as this will help absorb moisture from the dough and add a pleasant texture.

7. Adding the dough: With a spoon, take portions of the dough and place them in the tray, leaving enough space between them to expand during baking. Use a wide-bladed knife, moistened in cold water, to level the dough evenly.

8. Preparing the fruits: Wash the plums, cut them in half, and remove the pits. You can also use other fruits depending on your preferences. Arrange the fruits on top of the dough, sprinkling a little breadcrumbs if desired.

9. Baking the cake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and place the tray inside. Bake the cake for about 20 minutes, then check if it is baked. When it is almost done, remove the cake from the oven.

10. Preparing the egg white foam: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer on high speed, gradually adding the sugar until you obtain a firm and glossy foam. It is important not to rush this step, as the foam needs to be well aerated.

11. Finalizing the baking: Spread the egg white foam evenly over the cake and return the tray to the oven. Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the foam becomes slightly golden. This will add a delicious contrast between the soft dough and the crunchy foam on top.

12. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the tray. Then, cut it into squares and serve it both warm and cold. It is delicious alongside a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Practical tips:
- If you want a fluffier cake, you can add a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream to the egg mixture.
- Instead of white sugar, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Experiment with different fruits! Apples and pears add a crunchy texture, while berries provide a note of freshness.
- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon or vanilla extract into the dough.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This fruit cake has approximately 200 calories per serving, depending on the fruits used and the amount of sugar. Plums are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and have antioxidant properties, making this cake a healthier choice than many other desserts.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen fruits? Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
- What if I don't have breadcrumbs? You can use flour, but breadcrumbs will provide a better texture.
- How can I store the cake? It can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Delicious combinations:
This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea, an espresso, or a glass of natural fruit juice. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or whipped cream can turn the dessert into an unforgettable experience.

The experience of preparing the fruit cake can be a wonderful opportunity to gather the family around the table and create unforgettable memories. I invite you to try this recipe and personalize your cake, thus contributing to this delicious culinary tradition! Enjoy!