Plum cake

Plum Cake: a simple and delicious delicacy

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Who doesn't love a cake that combines the sweetness of fruit with a fluffy, slightly moist texture? Plum cake is a perfect example of a quick and simple recipe that will delight both you and your loved ones. This cake is not only an excellent choice for dessert but also a way to take advantage of seasonal fruits, giving them a new life.

The history of this cake is simple yet full of emotion: it was created out of a desire to transform ripe fruits, as well as to offer a quick and tasty dessert. It is a recipe that has passed through generations, handed down from grandmothers to grandchildren, each adding a personal touch.

I propose we discover together how to prepare this wonderful plum cake, step by step, to achieve a perfect result.

Ingredients:
- 300-400 g plums (preferably ripe but firm)
- 160 g flour
- 150 g sugar (plus 2 tablespoons)
- 400 ml milk
- 4 eggs
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
- A pinch of salt

Step 1: Preparing the dish and the fruit
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Then, take a heat-resistant dish and grease it well with a tablespoon of butter. This step is essential as it will help the cake release easily after baking.

Wash the plums under a stream of cold water, then cut them in half and remove the pits. Place the cleaned plums in the prepared dish, making sure to distribute them evenly. Sprinkle the two tablespoons of sugar over the plums to enhance their sweetness and caramelize them during baking.

Step 2: Preparing the batter
In a large bowl, beat the four eggs with 150 g of sugar and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk or an electric mixer to obtain a smooth and frothy mixture. Gradually add the milk, mixing continuously.

After incorporating the milk, add the sifted flour little by little, mixing carefully to avoid lumps. The batter should be fluid but not too thin.

Step 3: Assembling the cake
Once you have a uniform batter, pour it over the plums in the heat-resistant dish. This step is when your cake truly becomes special, combining the flavors of the fruit with the fluffy texture of the batter.

Step 4: Baking
Place the dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for 35 minutes. Check the cake after 30 minutes, and to ensure it is well-baked, you can do the toothpick test: if it comes out clean, the cake is ready!

Step 5: Finishing and serving
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the dish for a few minutes, then sprinkle powdered sugar (preferably finer) on top for an attractive appearance. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a touch of sweetness on top.

My personal tip: Serve the cake with a portion of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of texture and temperature. A cup of tea or coffee pairs wonderfully with this dessert.

Possible variations:
- You can experiment with other fruits such as peaches, apricots, or apples to give your cake a different note.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for an even richer flavor.
- If you want a fluffier cake, replace part of the milk with yogurt or sour cream.

Nutritional benefits:
Plums are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, having beneficial effects on digestion. Additionally, this dessert has a moderate calorie content, making it a healthier choice than many other desserts.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned plums for this recipe?
- Although fresh plums are preferred, you can use canned plums, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

2. How can I store the cake?
- You can store the cake at room temperature for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap. For longer storage, you can freeze it.

3. How can I make the cake less sweet?
- You can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter or use brown sugar, which has a more intense flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information to prepare this plum cake, all that's left is to get started! Each bite will bring smiles and pleasant memories, so enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen. Bon appétit!