Plum and coconut cake

Plum and coconut cake - a delicacy that brings joy in every bite. This cake is a perfect combination of fluffy dough and aromatic plum filling, enriched with coconut. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or as a dessert after a meal, this cake will surely delight any palate.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12

The history of plum cakes is rich and diverse. Over time, plums have been appreciated not only for their sweet and juicy taste but also for their nutritional properties. These fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a valuable ingredient in desserts. Coconut, on the other hand, adds an exotic touch and an unforgettable flavor, transforming this cake into a true masterpiece.

Ingredients for the dough:
- 12.5 g fresh yeast (about half of a 25 g cube)
- 40 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 yolk
- 125 ml warm milk
- 250 g flour
- a pinch of salt
- 35 g melted butter

Ingredients for the filling:
- 1 kg whole plums
- 3 eggs
- 75 g sugar
- 100 ml liquid cream
- 1 tablespoon starch
- 100 g coconut

Step by step:

1. Preparing the yeast: Start by preparing the yeast. In a small bowl, mix the yeast with 1 teaspoon of sugar until it liquefies. Then, add the warm milk and a little flour, mixing well to obtain a consistency like sour cream. Let the yeast rise for 10 minutes in a warm place.

2. Preparing the dough: In a larger bowl, sift the flour and add salt, sugar, the egg, and the yolk. Then, add the activated yeast, gradually the warm milk, and the melted butter. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If necessary, add 2 more tablespoons of flour to achieve the optimal consistency. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise for 45 minutes until it doubles in volume.

3. Preparing the plums: Meanwhile, pit the plums and cut them into quarters. These will add a note of freshness and a sweet-sour taste to the cake.

4. Rolling out the dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle or circle, depending on the baking pan you have (22 x 30 cm or 26 cm diameter). Grease the pan with butter to prevent sticking. Evenly place the cut plums on the dough.

5. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the yolks with the sugar until fluffy and light in color. Then, add the beaten egg whites and whipped cream. Finally, fold in the coconut mixed with the starch, gently mixing to maintain the lightness of the composition. This mixture will have a delicious taste, and the coconut will give it a unique aroma.

6. Assembling the cake: Using a spoon, evenly spread the filling over the plums, ensuring that all the fruits are well covered.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the cake in for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is golden and firm. You can check it with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

8. Cooling and serving: After the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can cut it into squares and serve it either plain or dusted with vanilla sugar for an extra touch of flavor.

Practical tips:
- It is important that the ingredients are at room temperature to ensure good homogenization of the dough.
- You can replace the plums with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or apples, to vary the taste of the cake.
- If you prefer a more intense coconut flavor, you can add more coconut to the filling.
- The cake can be served with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of cream to create a delicious contrast between hot and cold.

Nutritional benefits:
Plums are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and coconut brings healthy fats and antioxidants. This cake is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without compromising your diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use about 5 g of dry yeast. Make sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package.
- How can I store the cake? The cake keeps well at room temperature for a few days, but you can also freeze it to enjoy later.
- Can I add spices to the filling? Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg can add a wonderful aroma to your cake.

This plum and coconut cake is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. So, don't hesitate to try it today and enjoy every delicious slice!