Plum cake

Plum Cake: A Sweet and Fragrant Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Welcome to the wonderful world of cakes! Today, I present you a simple and quick plum cake recipe that will turn any ordinary day into a celebration of flavors. This cake is not only delicious but also very versatile, as it can be adapted with various seasonal fruits. Moreover, it is perfect to be enjoyed alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making every bite an unforgettable experience.

The History of Plum Cake

Fruit cakes are an ancient culinary tradition, appreciated in many cultures. This plum cake combines the sweet-sour taste of the fruits with a fluffy and moist texture, creating a perfect contrast. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but what is clear is that such recipes have brought joy to family tables for generations.

The Magical Ingredients

To create this delicious cake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the base:
- 4 large eggs
- 250 g granulated sugar
- 100 ml sunflower oil (or another neutral oil)
- 150 ml milk
- 250 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the filling:
- 600 g plums (or other fruits like peaches, apricots, sour cherries, or strawberries)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar (depending on the sweetness of the fruits)

For decoration:
- Vanilla powdered sugar

One Step Forward: Preparing the Ingredients

1. Washing and preparing the plums: Start by washing the plums well. Remove the pits and cut them in halves or slices, depending on your preference. Mix them with the vanilla sugar and 1-2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. This step will help release the delicious juices during baking.

2. Separating the eggs: Separate the egg whites from the yolks. This will help achieve a fluffier cake.

Cooking Step by Step

3. Preparing the base: In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until you get a firm foam. In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the granulated sugar for a few minutes until the mixture becomes a light cream and pale in color. Gradually add the oil, followed by the milk and vanilla extract.

4. Combining the ingredients: Carefully fold in the beaten egg whites using a spatula to avoid losing air in the mixture. Then, sift the flour and baking powder and incorporate them into the mixture, stirring gently.

5. Preparing the baking tray: Line a tray of approximately 22 x 30 cm with baking paper. Pour the base mixture into the tray and smooth the surface.

6. Adding the plums: Evenly distribute the plums (or chosen fruits) on top of the batter. They will bake together with the base and provide moisture and delicious flavor.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and place the tray inside. Bake the cake for 30-35 minutes, or until it passes the toothpick test (the toothpick should come out clean).

8. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the tray. After it has cooled, sprinkle vanilla powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

The plum cake is wonderful served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a caramel sauce for an extra flavor boost. Also, try pairing it with a fruit tea or a flavored coffee for a complete experience.

If you want to experiment, replace the plums with other seasonal fruits. Peaches and apricots add a sweet flavor, while sour cherries provide a tangy note, perfect for those who prefer less sweet combinations.

Nutritional Benefits

Plums are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They contain fiber that aids digestion and can contribute to heart health. Additionally, the recipe is relatively easy to adapt to reduce sugar, making it suitable even for those who are health-conscious.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen fruits? Yes, frozen fruits are a good choice, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the cake.

- How can I store the cake? The cake stores well at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. You can freeze it for a longer period.

- Can it be made without eggs? Yes, you can use egg substitutes such as applesauce or yogurt, but the final texture may vary slightly.

- What drinks pair well with the cake? Fresh lemonade or herbal tea will perfectly complement the sweetness of the cake.

In conclusion, the plum cake is an excellent choice for any occasion. It is easy to prepare, full of flavors, and versatile, making it worthy of a place in the cookbook of any cooking enthusiast. So, don’t hesitate! Put on your apron and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!