Mango and Plum Cake

Mango and Plum Cake - A Sweet and Fragrant Indulgence

Today, I invite you to discover a cake recipe that not only combines the exotic flavors of mango with the subtle sweetness of plums but also brings a touch of joy in every slice. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a gathering with friends, a family celebration, or simply a dessert to pamper yourself on weekend evenings. Let’s get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-55 minutes
Servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

- 2 large, fresh eggs
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 150 g butter, at room temperature
- 250 g sifted flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Zest of one orange (about 1-2 tablespoons)
- 2 ripe mangoes
- 2 ripe plums
- Vanilla sugar and cinnamon, for decoration
- A pinch of salt

The Story Behind the Recipe

The mango and plum cake is a delicious combination that reminds us of warm summers when fruits are at their peak flavor. The sweet and juicy tropical mango pairs perfectly with the fragrant plums, creating a symphony of tastes that will delight your palate. This recipe can be adapted based on seasonal fruits, offering amazing versatility.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a smooth batter. Start by sifting the flour and measuring all the ingredients.

Step 2: Beating the Eggs
In a large bowl, beat the eggs together with the sugar and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. This process will add air to the batter, making the cake fluffier. Add the orange zest and mix well.

Step 3: Mixing the Butter
In another bowl, cream the soft butter (at room temperature) until smooth. Then, gently incorporate the egg mixture into the butter. It’s important not to overmix to maintain an airy texture.

Step 4: Adding the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted flour and baking powder using a spatula. Mix carefully, ensuring not to form lumps. It's essential to keep the mixture as airy as possible to achieve a fluffy cake.

Step 5: Preparing the Fruits
Peel the mango and cut half of the pulp into small cubes. Add these cubes to the cake batter and mix gently. These pieces will add an interesting texture and intense flavor.

Step 6: Preparing the Baking Pan
Grease a baking pan with a thin layer of butter and a bit of flour to prevent the cake from sticking. Pour the batter into the pan, making sure to spread it evenly.

Step 7: Arranging the Fruits
Slice the remaining mango and plums, then place them on top of the batter. You can create a nice pattern or simply spread them evenly. Sprinkle vanilla sugar and cinnamon on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Step 8: Baking
Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Place the pan in the oven and bake the cake for 30-40 minutes, or until it passes the toothpick test. This means that if you insert a toothpick into the center of the cake, it should come out clean.

Step 9: Cooling and Serving
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you don’t have any dessert lovers at home, slice the cake and sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look.

Serving Suggestion
This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea. The combination of mango and plum flavors with creamy ice cream will be a true delight.

Tips and Variations

- Alternative Fruits: If you don't have mango or plums, you can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches, apricots, or apples.
- Adding Nuts: For an extra crunch, add chopped walnuts or almonds to the batter.
- Glaze: A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice can turn this cake into a real treat.

Nutritional Benefits

Mango is an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin A, benefiting the immune system and skin. Plums contain antioxidants and fiber, making them great for digestion. This cake not only offers wonderful taste but also nutritional benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can replace some of the white flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrients.
- How can I store the cake? The cake can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
- Is it suitable for vegans? This recipe contains eggs and butter, but you can adapt it using vegan substitutes like bananas for eggs and margarine for butter.

Conclusion

The mango and plum cake is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and aromatic dessert. With its wonderful flavor and fluffy texture, it is a simple and quick recipe perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and customize the cake to your liking! Enjoy and here’s to many successful desserts!