Plum and Walnut Cake

Plum and Walnut Cake: An Aromatic Delight with Unmatched Base

Who doesn't love a dessert that combines the intense flavors of plums with the crunchy texture of walnuts? This plum and walnut cake is a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it's a gathering with friends or a family celebration. Its crumbly base, enriched with cinnamon, and the juicy plum filling will turn every slice into an unforgettable experience. Get ready to discover this delicious recipe step by step!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 12

Ingredients
To achieve the perfect plum and walnut cake, you need the following ingredients:

Plum Base
- 2 eggs
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)
- 100 g sugar
- 250 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 500 g pitted plums, cut into quarters
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Walnut Base
- 2 eggs
- 100 g sugar
- 120 g ground walnuts
- Zest of 1/2 lemon

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Plum Base
Start by preheating the oven to 175°C. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar using a whisk or mixer until the mixture becomes frothy and slightly lighter in color. Add the butter at room temperature and continue mixing until smooth.

2. Incorporating Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour together with the baking powder, then gradually add them to the egg and butter mixture. Use a whisk to mix well until you get a smooth and sticky dough. It is normal for the dough to be slightly softer than other doughs.

3. Assembling the Mixture
Grease a 22x30 cm baking tray with butter and dust it with flour. Using a spoon, evenly spread the dough in the tray. Place the cut plums on top, sprinkle with vanilla sugar and cinnamon, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

4. Preparing the Walnut Base
In another bowl, beat the two eggs with the sugar until the mixture becomes frothy. Add the lemon zest and ground walnuts, mixing gently with a spatula to avoid losing air in the mixture. Pour this mixture over the plums, leveling it with the spatula.

5. Baking
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the cake turns golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so be sure to monitor the process.

6. Cooling and Serving
After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly in the tray. Then, detach the cake from the edges and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant appearance and an extra sweet touch.

Practical Tips
- Choosing Plums: Use ripe but firm plums to avoid the filling becoming too soft. Dried plums can also be a delicious alternative, but make sure to rehydrate them in warm water for 30 minutes before use.
- Walnuts: Walnuts can be toasted before being added to the dough to enhance the flavor. Make sure to let them cool before using.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A serving of cake contains about 250 calories. It provides carbohydrates from sugar, healthy fats from walnuts, and a good amount of fiber from plums, making it a healthier choice than many other desserts. Plums are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, contributing to a balanced diet.

Variations and Serving
This cake can be adapted according to personal preferences. Try replacing plums with apples or peaches for a different version. The plum and walnut cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic tea.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes! You can experiment with almonds or hazelnuts, each bringing a unique flavor to the cake.
- How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. You can gently reheat it in the microwave before serving to restore its warm texture.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Although this recipe contains eggs and butter, you can experiment with vegan substitutes, such as applesauce instead of eggs and coconut oil instead of butter.

The plum and walnut cake is a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Its delightful flavors and unmistakable texture will make you want to make it again and again. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!