Plum and cinnamon cake

Plum and Cinnamon Cake - An Aromatic Autumn Delight

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 12

Introduction

Welcome to the world of autumn flavors! Today we will prepare a plum and cinnamon cake, a dessert that not only combines fine tastes but also brings a nostalgic note of comfort. The sweet and juicy plums perfectly blend with the warm aroma of cinnamon and a slightly moist texture that will make you fall in love with every bite. This cake is ideal for an afternoon tea or to be enjoyed with loved ones. Come, let’s discover together how to prepare it!

Ingredients

- 6 egg whites
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 6 tablespoons of powdered sugar (or granulated sugar)
- 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 50 ml sunflower oil
- ½ kg well-ripened plums
- A pinch of ground nutmeg
- Ground cinnamon, for decoration

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Plums
Start by washing the plums under cold running water. Make sure to clean them well of any impurities. Once done, remove the pits and cut the plums in half. In a bowl, add a tablespoon of powdered sugar, a pinch of nutmeg, and a little cinnamon. Gently mix so that the plums are coated in the spices' aromas.

2. Beating the Egg Whites
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a mixer until you achieve a firm foam. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until the mixture becomes shiny and has the consistency of a meringue.

3. Incorporating the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the sifted flour, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon using gentle, folding motions from top to bottom. It’s important not to overmix to keep the air in the egg whites.

4. Creating the Cocoa Mixture
Divide the mixture into two bowls. In one, add the cocoa powder and mix well until combined.

5. Preparing the Baking Pan
Take a baking tray (approximately 20x30 cm) and grease it with butter, then sprinkle a little flour to prevent the cake from sticking. This step is essential to achieve a cake that easily comes out of the pan.

6. Assembling the Cake
Start by pouring the cocoa mixture into the tray and leveling it evenly. Then, carefully pour the white mixture over the black one, being careful not to mix them. Place the plums on top, cut side up, so they are visible and add an attractive look.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 40 minutes. Check the cake with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

8. Cooling and Decorating
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes. Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top for an extra aroma and let it cool completely on a cooling rack.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the tasting experience, you can serve the cake with a spoonful of sour cream or vanilla ice cream. The vanilla flavor will perfectly complement the taste of the plums and cinnamon. A cup of herbal tea or a sweet white wine would also be ideal accompaniments for this dessert.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other seasonal fruits like apples or pears, which pair wonderfully with cinnamon. You can also replace powdered sugar with honey or maple syrup for a healthier option. Instead of nutmeg, you can use ground ginger for a slightly spicier taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Plums are rich in vitamins A and C, and high in fiber, making them excellent for digestion. Additionally, cinnamon is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This cake is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients!

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use dried plums?
Of course! Dried plums will add an intense sweetness, but make sure to soak them in warm water for 30 minutes before using.

- What can I do if I don’t have cocoa?
You can completely omit the cocoa and use a white mixture flavored with vanilla or lemon.

- How should I store the cake?
The cake keeps well in the fridge, in an airtight container, for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it, but make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it.

Personal Note

This plum and cinnamon cake reminds me of the evenings spent with family when autumn showcased its beauty through vibrant colors and savory aromas. I hope you enjoy every bite as much as I enjoyed creating it. The invitation is open: make it for your loved ones and turn every meal into a special, unforgettable moment!

Conclusion

Now that you have all the secrets of this plum and cinnamon cake, all that’s left is to get cooking. It’s a simple yet flavorful dessert, perfect for celebrating the beauty of autumn. Try this recipe and don’t hesitate to share the result with friends and family! Bon appétit!