Cheerful sponge cake with plums

Cheerful sponge cake with plums

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

The cheerful sponge cake with plums is more than just a simple dessert; it is an explosion of flavors and textures, a symbol of joy in every slice. This sponge cake is an excellent choice to celebrate beautiful moments with loved ones, but also an ideal snack with a hot coffee or aromatic tea. The juicy plums add a note of freshness and sweetness, transforming it into an unforgettable dessert.

A bit of history: The sponge cake is a traditional recipe found in various forms around the world. It is appreciated for its fluffy and slightly airy texture, often used as a base for other cakes or as a standalone dessert. By adding plums, this recipe gains an additional dimension, with the intense flavor of seasonal fruits.

Ingredients:
- 8 large eggs
- 300 g sugar
- 300 g flour
- 8 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 kg of fresh plums (or canned if out of season)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a slightly airy texture. Wash the plums well, remove the pits, and cut them in half. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can macerate them in a little sugar and lemon juice for about 30 minutes before adding them to the mixture.

2. Separating the eggs: In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. It is essential to ensure that the bowl and utensils you use for the egg whites are completely clean and dry. A bit of fat can prevent the egg whites from whipping properly.

3. Whipping the egg whites: Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and start beating them with a mixer on medium speed until they become frothy. Then, gradually add the sugar, continuing to mix until you obtain a firm and glossy foam. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy sponge cake.

4. Preparing the yolk mixture: In another bowl, beat the yolks with the oil, adding it one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture becomes homogeneous. Then, incorporate the vanilla sugar and the flour, sifting it gradually, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. The flour should be added in a rain to avoid lumps.

5. Incorporating the egg whites: Carefully add the whipped egg whites to the yolk mixture, gently folding from top to bottom. This will allow air to remain in the mixture, giving the sponge cake a light texture.

6. Preparing the baking tray: Line a baking tray with butter and flour, ensuring it is evenly covered. This step is important to prevent the sponge cake from sticking.

7. Pouring the mixture: Carefully pour the mixture into the tray, leveling it evenly. Then, place the plum halves on top, lightly sprinkling them into the mixture for better integration during baking.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray in the middle of the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes or until the sponge cake turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cooling and serving: Once baked, remove the sponge cake from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. It is particularly delicious served cold, and a dusting of vanilla sugar on top makes it even more appealing.

Useful tips:
- If you want a richer flavor, you can add a little cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture.
- Use well-ripened plums, as they will add juiciness and a sweet flavor to the sponge cake.
- This sponge cake keeps well in the fridge for a few days, making it ideal for preparing in advance for a party or family meal.

Combine this dessert with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for a delicious contrast! It is also wonderful to enjoy alongside herbal tea or aromatic coffee, making this sponge cake a versatile choice.

Calories and nutritional benefits: Each serving of plum sponge cake contains approximately 250 calories, and the plum adds valuable nutrients, including vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits instead of plums? Absolutely! Apples, peaches, or cherries are excellent alternatives.
- Is it possible to reduce the sugar? Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar by up to 20% without significantly affecting the taste.
- How can I tell when the sponge cake is done? Test with a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it's done.

This cheerful sponge cake with plums is not just a recipe, but an experience full of joy in every slice. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy the cooking process! A delicious dessert awaits you that will bring smiles to the faces of those who savor it!