Plum cake with apricots

Apricot Brownies – a delicacy that combines intense chocolate with the juiciness of apricots, perfect for moments when you want to indulge or surprise your guests. This cake not only looks splendid, but it also has a moist texture and a taste that will win you over instantly. Moreover, it is a simple recipe, ideal for those who love quick and delicious desserts. Let's discover together how to prepare this wonderful apricot brownie!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 10-12

Ingredients

- 200 g flour
- 200 g sugar
- 160 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 4 eggs (separate the yolks from the whites)
- 6-8 tablespoons cocoa (to taste; I chose 6)
- 3-4 tablespoons grated or chopped chocolate (I used 50 g dark chocolate)
- 280 g natural yogurt (preferably creamy)
- 1 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt (optional)
- 6 medium apricots (cut in half)
- 2-3 tablespoons brown sugar (or regular sugar)
- Butter for greasing the pan

Tips for ingredients

- Apricot: Choose well-ripened but firm apricots. These will add a fresh and tangy flavor to the cake. Feel free to replace them with peaches or plums if you prefer.
- Chocolate: Use quality chocolate, preferably with a cocoa content of over 70% for a more intense flavor.
- Yogurt: Creamy yogurt adds moisture and a fine texture. You can use Greek yogurt for added consistency.

Preparation techniques

1. Preparing the pan: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Grease a 32 x 22 cm pan with butter and generously sprinkle brown sugar to create a delicious caramelized base.

2. Arranging the apricots: Place the apricot halves cut-side down, ensuring they are well placed in the cocoa batter.

3. Preparing the batter: In a large bowl, place the soft butter and sugar, then mix well until you get a creamy mixture. Add the yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

4. Dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa, and baking powder. Add this mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the yogurt and whipped cream (if using). Mix until well combined.

5. Chocolate: Add the grated chocolate and mix again.

6. Egg whites: Whip the egg whites until frothy. Then, using a spatula, gently fold them into the chocolate mixture, using up-and-down motions to retain the air in the egg whites.

7. Baking: Pour the mixture over the apricots in the pan and level the surface. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes. Check the cake with a toothpick to ensure it is baked.

8. Cooling: Once the cake is ready, let it cool completely in the pan. Then, carefully turn it onto a platter, ensuring the apricots remain visible.

9. Serving: It is recommended to keep it in the fridge for a few hours before serving, so the flavors can stabilize.

Personal notes and variations

This apricot brownie is extremely versatile. Instead of apricots, you could try other seasonal fruits, such as cherries or raspberries, which pair excellently with chocolate. You can also experiment with add-ins like nuts, hazelnuts, or coconut flakes to add different textures.

Nutritional benefits

This cake combines the natural sugars from the fruit with the proteins from the eggs and yogurt, providing a good energy boost. Cocoa, rich in antioxidants, contributes to cardiovascular health, while yogurt brings beneficial probiotics for digestion.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use another type of flour? Yes, you can replace regular flour with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the final texture may vary.
- How can I make this recipe less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or use a natural sweetener.
- Can the cake be frozen? Yes, the cake can be frozen, but make sure it is well wrapped to avoid absorbing odors from the freezer.

Suggested pairings

The apricot brownie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, a cup of coffee or flavored tea can bring a warm and comforting note to this dessert.

I wish you success in preparing this delicious brownie! Every bite will be a revelation of flavors and textures, bringing a touch of joy to every moment spent with loved ones.