Plum Cake

Plum Brownie - A Delight Full of Flavor

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn't love a fluffy brownie rich in flavors? This plum brownie recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also take you back to warm family moments around the table. The caramelized plums add a touch of freshness, and the combination with cocoa and nuts makes this cake an irresistible dessert.

A Brief History of Brownies

Brownies are a dessert originating from pastry traditions, appreciated for their moist and rich texture. They are usually associated with chocolate, but this plum variant brings an interesting twist. The plums, with their distinct sweetness and flavor, blend perfectly with cocoa, offering a delicious contrast. It's an adaptable dessert, perfect for special occasions or to be enjoyed with a cup of coffee on quiet evenings.

Ingredients

- 4 large eggs
- 200 g sugar
- 100 ml milk
- 100 ml oil (sunflower oil or light olive oil)
- 200 g flour
- 50 g ground walnuts (preferably hazelnuts or Romanian walnuts)
- 25 g cocoa (good quality for an intense taste)
- 1 vanilla essence
- 5 tablespoons blueberry jam (or plum jam for an intensified flavor)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 700 g pitted plums (preferably ripe and sweet plums)
- Sugar for sprinkling on top

Step by Step

1. Preparing the base mixture: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar using a whisk or mixer until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture becomes smooth and slightly frothy. This is the base that will give the cake an airy texture.

2. Add the wet ingredients: In the same bowl, add the milk and oil. Mix well to integrate all the ingredients. The oil will not only add moisture but also contribute to a fine texture.

3. Incorporate the dry ingredients: Sift the flour, cocoa, baking powder, and baking soda over the egg mixture. Add the vanilla essence and ground nuts. Mix everything with a spatula or wooden spoon until you achieve a smooth composition. Be careful not to overmix, as this could develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a dense brownie.

4. Preparing the pan: Line a baking tray (approximately 23x32 cm) with parchment paper so that the cake doesn't stick. This will make it easier to remove the cake from the tray after baking.

5. Add the mixture to the tray: Pour the batter into the tray, smoothing it out with a spatula. Place halved plums on top of the batter, then sprinkle sugar over them. This will help caramelize the fruits during baking, providing a sweet and crunchy crust.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes. For the first 10 minutes, bake at a higher temperature (200°C) to achieve a beautiful crust. Check if it is baked by using a toothpick – it should come out clean from the center of the cake.

7. Cooling and serving: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. Once completely cooled, cut it into squares and serve. It is delicious both warm and cold.

Useful Tips

- Choosing plums: Make sure the plums are ripe but not too soft, so they hold up well during baking.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of nuts or add dark chocolate for an extra chocolate flavor. Additionally, replacing blueberry jam with peach or raspberry jam can offer a different flavor.
- Serving: This brownie pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce. A cup of coffee or a fragrant tea will complete the tasting experience.

Nutritional Benefits

Plums are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and K. They can aid digestion and maintain heart health. Additionally, walnuts add protein and healthy fats, making this brownie a more balanced choice than many other desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Yes, you can experiment with apples, pears, or even peaches, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I keep the brownie fresh?
Wrap it in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

3. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour, but make sure to follow the instructions on the package, as the composition may behave differently.

I wish you a good appetite! Enjoy this plum brownie with your loved ones, turning each piece into a sweet memory.