Plum Cake

Summer Plum Cake: a fragrant and light delight

Total preparation time: 55-60 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Number of servings: 12

On a warm summer day, what could be more enjoyable than a light, moist, and flavorful cake? This plum cake recipe is not only simple but promises to bring a smile to anyone who enjoys it. With a fluffy base and juicy plums, it is the perfect dessert for a gathering with friends or a special breakfast.

A brief history of summer cakes

Fruit cakes have a long-standing tradition, being prepared in various corners of the world during the warm season. These desserts are often associated with bountiful fruit harvests, and plums are no exception. The natural sweetness of these fruits blends perfectly with a simple batter, creating a harmony of flavors that reminds us of summer meals spent outdoors.

Ingredients

- 5 large eggs
- 250 g sugar
- 200 ml milk
- 200 ml oil (preferably sunflower or canola)
- 1 packet baking powder (approx. 10 g)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (approx. 8 g)
- 400 g flour
- 600 g plums (fresh, well-ripened)
- 3 teaspoons sugar (to sprinkle over plums)
- Cinnamon powder (to taste)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

Helpful tips about ingredients

- Eggs: Make sure they are at room temperature. They will whip better and contribute to a fluffy texture of the cake.
- Sugar: I recommend using granulated white sugar, but you can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized taste.
- Plums: Choose ripe but firm plums; they will add juiciness and flavor to your cake. If you enjoy interesting combinations, you can also try other seasonal fruits like peaches or apricots.
- Oil: Sunflower oil is ideal, but you can also use canola or olive oil if you prefer a more pronounced flavor.

Preparation technique

1. Beat the eggs: Start by beating the whole eggs in a large bowl using a mixer at maximum speed for 7-8 minutes. It is essential to achieve an airy foam that will support the entire structure of the cake.

2. Add the sugar: Once you have a consistent foam, add the sugar and vanilla sugar. Continue mixing for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes homogeneous and glossy.

3. Incorporate the oil and milk: Gradually add the oil and milk while continuing to mix. Ensure that each ingredient is well incorporated before adding the next.

4. Flour and baking powder: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. Add the flour mixture to the wet composition using a spatula. Gently mix from the bottom up to maintain the air in the egg foam.

5. Prepare the baking tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Ensure it is well stretched to avoid sticking.

6. Pour the mixture: Pour the mixture into the prepared tray and level the surface with a spatula.

7. Add the plums: Cut the plums in half and arrange them on top of the batter. Sprinkle a teaspoon of sugar and a dash of cinnamon on each plum half for added flavor.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 175-180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. Test the cake with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

9. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes. Then, carefully remove it from the tray and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

Serving suggestions

This plum cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a cinnamon cappuccino or a fruit tea. It is also perfect for a special breakfast or as a dessert at an outdoor meal.

Variations and tricks

- You can add chopped nuts or almonds for an extra texture.
- The entire cake can be flavored with a few drops of almond or vanilla essence for a more complex taste.
- If you enjoy unusual combinations, try adding a few cubes of dark chocolate to the batter, which will melt and provide a delicious contrast to the sweetness of the plums.

Nutritional benefits

This cake contains protein from eggs, carbohydrates from flour and sugar, and healthy fats from oil. Plums add a boost of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it excellent for digestive health and the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Yes, you can use peaches, apricots, or even berries. Make sure to adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the chosen fruits.

2. How can I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

3. Is the cake suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using flax eggs or other plant-based substitutes for eggs and plant milk.

This summer plum cake is not only easy to prepare but also an unforgettable experience for the taste buds. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the pleasure of baking! Don't forget to share your impressions of this delicious dessert. Enjoy!