Plum Cake

Plum cake is a perfect choice for any time of the day, bringing a touch of sweetness and a refined aroma that reminds us of sunny autumn days. This plum cake recipe is not only simple but also quick, and the result is a delicacy that you will surely love. It is a fast, easy-to-make dessert, ideal for serving at festive meals as well as gatherings with friends.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

- 4 egg yolks
- 250 g sugar
- 100 ml sunflower oil
- 100 ml milk
- 250 g white flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 500 g plums, halved
- A pinch of salt
- Vanilla sugar for dusting (optional)

History of the plum dessert:
Fruit cakes have been prepared for centuries, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. They are often associated with festive times and family reunions. Plums, with their unique sweetness and acidity, have been used to enrich many recipes, turning every dessert into a memorable experience.

Preparation:

1. Prepare the ingredients:
Make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature. This helps achieve a homogeneous consistency in the mixture. Gather all necessary ingredients and prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.

2. Beat the yolks:
In a large bowl, add the four egg yolks and 250 g of sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes creamy and light in color. This step is essential as the incorporated air will help the batter become fluffy.

3. Add the oil and milk:
Continuing to mix, gradually add 100 ml of oil and 100 ml of milk. Stir gently to avoid losing air from the mixture. The sunflower oil adds moisture and contributes to the cake's soft texture.

4. Incorporate the dry ingredients:
In another bowl, combine 250 g of white flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and the two packets of vanilla sugar. Add the dry ingredient mixture to the yolk mixture, mixing gently with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed. This will prevent lumps from forming.

5. Beat the egg whites:
In a clean bowl, beat the four egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form peaks. It is important that the bowl is completely dry and free of grease to achieve a firm foam. This technique will add volume and airiness to the cake.

6. Combine the mixtures:
Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the yolk mixture. Use a spatula and mix gently with up-and-down motions to avoid losing air from the egg whites. This will ensure a fluffy and light batter.

7. Pour the mixture into the tray:
Once the mixture is homogenized, pour it into the lined tray. Ensure it is evenly distributed.

8. Add the plums:
Arrange the halved plums on top of the mixture, as close together as possible. They will add a splash of juice and flavor to the cake, and during baking, they will blend perfectly with the batter.

9. Bake the cake:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and let the cake bake at high heat for 5 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to low and continue baking for 30-35 minutes. The cake is ready when it turns golden and passes the toothpick test.

10. Cool and serve:
Once the cake has cooled, cut it into squares and dust it with vanilla sugar for an elegant look. This plum cake is delicious served warm or at room temperature.

Practical tips:
- If you want a more aromatic note, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla essence to the batter.
- Plums can be replaced with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or apples, to create delicious variations of the recipe.
- You can serve the cake with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a contrast of textures.

Nutritional benefits:
Plums are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and have a high fiber content, contributing to healthy digestion. This dessert not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also provides valuable nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture will be different.
- How can I store the cake? You can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Can this cake be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen, but it is better to cut it into portions before freezing.

This plum cake recipe is not just a treat but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and let the natural flavors of the fruits carry you away!