Plum Cake

Caramelized Plum Cake: A Classic Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Introduction

Who doesn’t love the enticing aroma of warm cakes from the oven? This caramelized plum cake recipe is a true delight, combining the sweetness of plums with the fluffy texture of the dough. It’s a simple and quick recipe, perfect for serving with coffee among friends or to bring a touch of joy to every day. Let’s embark on a journey of flavors and discover together how we can transform simple ingredients into something truly special.

Necessary Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 pack of margarine (approximately 250 g)
- 1 pinch of salt (a pinch)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 250 g sugar

For the filling:
- Plums (approximately 600 g, preferably frozen for a caramelization effect)
- 2 handfuls of semolina (for sprinkling)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- A little oil for greasing the pan

A Brief History of Plum Cake

Plum cake is a classic recipe rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures. It is a perfect example of how seasonal ingredients can be used to create delicious desserts that bring family together at the table. The plums, with their juicy texture and sweet-tart flavor, become the stars of the cake, while the soft, fluffy dough complements them perfectly.

Preparing the Plum Cake

1. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add the flour, egg, sour cream, cubed margarine, salt, baking powder, and sugar. Using a mixer or spatula, mix the ingredients until you get a homogeneous dough. It is important not to knead the dough excessively to maintain its fluffy texture. If it’s too soft, you can add a little more flour.

2. Shaping the dough
Divide the dough into two parts, one larger (approximately ¾) and one smaller (¼). Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the larger dough into a thin sheet, about 5 mm thick. Carefully place the sheet into the greased pan, ensuring it reaches well to the edges.

3. Preparing the filling
Prick the dough sheet in several places with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking. Sprinkle a thin layer of semolina over the entire surface to absorb the juice the plums will release during baking. Place the plums on top, then sprinkle another layer of semolina and dust with cinnamon, to taste.

4. Decorating
From the remaining dough, roll out a thin sheet and cut strips about 1 cm wide. Place these strips over the plums to create a lovely lattice. This step will not only add a visual element but will also allow the plums to caramelize perfectly during baking.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pan in the oven and bake the cake for 40-45 minutes or until golden. The delicious smells that will waft through the air will make you eagerly await its removal.

6. Serving and decorating
Once the cake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan. After it has cooled, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look and an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This caramelized plum cake is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast. A cup of tea or coffee will perfectly complement this culinary experience.

Variations and Helpful Tips

- Fruit variations: Instead of plums, you can use peaches, apples, or cherries. Each fruit will provide a unique flavor, transforming the cake into a new dessert.
- Flavoring: Experiment with adding flavors like vanilla or nutmeg in the dough to bring a new dimension of taste.
- Nutrition: This cake contains plums, which are rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, plums have antioxidant properties that are beneficial for health.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use fresh plums instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh plums, but make sure to wash them well and cut them in half to allow the juice to release during baking.

- How can I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature, where it will stay fresh for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it to enjoy later.

- Can I replace margarine with butter?
Of course! Butter can provide a richer flavor to the cake. Use the same amount as the margarine.

This caramelized plum cake recipe is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bring the flavors of autumn into your kitchen. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or for a simple family afternoon, we are sure it will become a favorite for everyone. Enjoy every moment of preparation and the joy of sharing this dessert with loved ones!