Fluffy Plum Cake

Fluffy Plum Cake Recipe - An Irresistible Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12

Who doesn't love the inviting aroma of freshly baked cakes, with a fluffy texture and exceptional flavor? This fluffy plum cake is a dessert that will delight your taste buds and have you coming back for more. It's a simple dessert to prepare, yet it guarantees a wow factor. Whether you serve it at a festive gathering or simply indulge in a quiet evening, this cake will quickly become one of your favorites.

The history of plum cake is rich in tradition, often associated with seasonal treats, especially when plums are at their peak ripeness. These fruits not only provide a sweet-tart flavor but also add natural moisture, making the cake incredibly soft and fluffy.

Ingredients

For the cake:
- 3 fresh eggs
- 10 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 9 tablespoons oil (opt for a neutral oil, such as sunflower oil)
- 10 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla powdered sugar
- Zest of one medium lemon
- 13 tablespoons flour
- 1 bowl full of ripe plums (about 500 g)

For the topping:
- 50 g cold butter
- 3 and 1/2 tablespoons flour
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Ensure the plums are ripe but not overly soft, so they hold their shape during baking. Wash them well, then cut them in half and remove the pits.

2. Beat the eggs: In a large bowl, add the 3 eggs and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture for 5-7 minutes until it becomes frothy and the sugar is completely dissolved.

3. Add the liquids: Incorporate the oil and milk into the egg mixture. These ingredients will add moisture to the cake. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth consistency.

4. Flavor it: Add the lemon zest and vanilla powdered sugar. These flavors will give your cake a wonderful taste.

5. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Sift the baking powder over the liquid mixture and gradually add the flour, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain the cake's fluffy texture.

6. Prepare the baking pan: Take a rectangular baking dish (approximately 30x20 cm) and grease it with butter, then line the bottom with parchment paper. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking.

7. Pour the batter: Carefully pour the batter into the prepared pan and level the surface with a spatula.

8. Arrange the plums: Place the plum halves on top of the batter, cut side up. They will not only add flavor but also an attractive look to the cake.

9. Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, mix the cold butter cut into cubes with the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Use your fingers to combine the ingredients until you achieve a crumbly texture. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the plums in the batter.

10. Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the pan in the oven and bake the cake for 35-40 minutes or until it turns golden and passes the toothpick test (when a toothpick comes out clean, the cake is done).

11. Cool and serve: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can serve it plain or dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Practical Tips

- Choose quality plums: Ripe but firm plums are best for this recipe, as they will hold their shape and add juiciness to the cake.
- Delicious variations: You can experiment with other fruits, such as peaches, apples, or cherries, to adapt the cake to the season.
- Serving: This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.
- Storage: The fluffy plum cake keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Nutritional Benefits

Plums are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium. They have antioxidant properties, contributing to heart health and a healthy digestive system. Additionally, the cake is a good source of carbohydrates, providing the energy needed for an active day.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Yes, you can substitute plums with other ripe fruits, such as peaches or apples. Make sure to choose those with a higher water content to keep the cake moist.

- How can I make the cake less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar by 2-3 tablespoons without affecting the texture.

- Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. I recommend cutting it into slices before placing it in the freezer, so you can enjoy a piece anytime you want.

The fluffy plum cake is not only a simple and delicious dessert but also a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal fruits. With every bite, you'll be treated to its soft texture and juicy plum filling. So, put on your apron and let the enticing aroma of this cake take you away! Savor every moment and don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones. Enjoy!