Plum Cake

Plum dessert: a flavorful and fluffy cake

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

Who doesn't love the flavor of ripe plums combined with light and fluffy meringue? This plum cake will not only delight your taste buds, but will also bring a hint of nostalgia in every bite. It's a simple but impressive recipe, perfect to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee, at a get-together with friends or simply as a sweet treat after a long day. Let's venture into the world of culinary delights!

Ingredients needed:
- 4 eggs
- 350 g sugar
- 250 ml milk
- 100 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil or light olive oil)
- 1 sachet vanilla sugar
- 1 sachet baking powder
- 300 g flour
- Plums (about 500 g)
- Cinnamon (to taste)

Step 1: Preparing the batter
1. Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Place the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl and the yolks in another bowl.
2. Using a spatula or mixer, beat the yolks with the 150g of sugar and the vanilla sugar until creamy and deep yellow. This step is essential to get a fluffy crumble!
3. Gradually add the milk and oil, continuing to mix. The oil will add a hint of moisture and lightness to the cake.
4. Mix gently until all ingredients are well integrated and the mixture is smooth.

Step 2: Prepare the tray and plums
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C.) It is important to keep the temperature constant to ensure even baking.
2. Grease a baking tray (approximately 30x20cm (12x12in)) with oil and dust with flour. This step will prevent the cake from sticking to the tray.
3. Wash the plums, cut them in halves and remove the pits. Plums are vitamin-packed fruits, high in fiber and antioxidants, making them a great choice for healthy desserts.

Step 3: Assemble the cake
1. Pour the batter mixture into the prepared pan, leveling it with a spatula.
2. Arrange the plum halves domed side up, sprinkling them evenly over the entire surface of the batter. The fruit will bake, enriching the cake with their delicious juices.
3. Sprinkle cinnamon on top of the plums. This warm flavor will perfectly complement the taste of the ripe fruit.

Step 4: Baking and finishing the cake
1. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
2 Meanwhile, make the meringue. Beat the egg whites with 200g of sugar until stiff and glossy. This is the secret to a perfect meringue!
3. When the top is ready, remove the pan from the oven and spread the meringue evenly over the cake, leveling it with a spatula.
4. Put the cake back in the oven for another 5-10 minutes, until the meringue is lightly browned. This step will give the cake an appetizing look and a crunchy texture on top.

Step 5: Serving
1. Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, but it's equally delicious either way.
2. Garnish with a little cinnamon or ground walnuts for added texture. Also, a dollop of cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side will make the dessert an unforgettable experience!

Helpful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can substitute other fruits such as peaches or apples for the plums.
- Instead of white sugar, use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature for a fluffier meringue.

Nutritional benefits:
This plum cake is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, and is high in antioxidants thanks to the plums. Plus, it's a healthier alternative to many other desserts, with moderate sugar and fat content.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How can I store the cake? You can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat slightly before serving.
2. What drinks go with this cake? A cup of hibiscus tea, espresso or a glass of sweet white wine will perfectly complement the flavors of the cake.

This plum cake is more than just a dessert; it's an invitation to enjoy simple moments with loved ones. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, don't forget to savor it with joy! Enjoy cooking!