Plum cake with meringue topping

Plum Cake with Meringue Topping

If you are looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert, plum cake with meringue topping is the perfect choice! This recipe combines the sweetness of plums with the airy texture of meringue, creating a dessert that will surely impress anyone who tastes it. Get ready to fall in love with every bite!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12

The history of plum cake with meringue topping is rich, being a traditional recipe passed down from generation to generation. The meringue, a popular term for the meringue used in this dessert, adds a special touch, transforming a simple cake into a true delicacy. This delicious combination has been loved by many families, becoming a symbol of seasonal sweets.

Ingredients

- 4 eggs
- 18 tablespoons of sugar (9 for the batter, 9 for the meringue)
- 18 tablespoons of flour
- 18 tablespoons of milk
- 5 tablespoons of oil
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- a pinch of salt
- vanilla extract
- plums (about 500 g, well-ripened)

Ingredient details

Eggs are essential for providing structure and moisture to the cake. Choose fresh eggs for the best results. Sugar not only sweetens but also helps achieve a fluffy meringue. Flour is the base, while milk and oil contribute to the moist texture. Plums, with their sweet-sour flavor, offer not only taste but also an attractive appearance to the cake.

Step 1: Separating the eggs

Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure no yolk remains in the whites, as this will affect their ability to whip. Use two large bowls and clean your utensils well to avoid contamination.

Step 2: Preparing the yolk mixture

Beat the yolks with 9 tablespoons of sugar until they become a light-colored foam. This process is important, as the incorporated air will translate into a fluffy cake. Add the oil, milk, flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract, mixing well to obtain a homogeneous mixture.

Step 3: Preparing the meringue

In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they double in volume. Then, gradually add the remaining 9 tablespoons of sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue. This will add a light texture to the cake.

Step 4: Combining the mixtures

Gently fold the meringue into the yolk mixture using a spatula or a wooden spoon. Mix from the bottom up to preserve the air in the meringue, which is essential for a fluffy cake. Reserve 2-3 tablespoons of meringue for the topping.

Step 5: Preparing the cake

Wash the plums, slice them thinly, and remove the pits. Pour the cake mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper, then arrange the plum slices on top, side by side. Now it’s time to place the dish in the preheated oven at 180°C for about 30-40 minutes, or until the cake starts to develop a golden crust.

Step 6: Adding the meringue topping

After the cake has started baking, take it out of the oven and use a pastry syringe or a spoon to dollop the meringue over the cake. Then, return the cake to the oven for another 15-20 minutes, until the meringue becomes firm and golden.

Step 7: Cooling and serving

Let the cake cool completely before cutting it. It’s tempting to slice it right out of the oven, but waiting will help the cake set and enhance the flavors. Serve it plain or with a dollop of sour cream or ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Serving suggestions

Plum cake with meringue topping pairs perfectly with a fragrant green tea or freshly brewed coffee. You can also serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures, creating a truly memorable dessert.

Possible variations

If you want to experiment, you can replace the plums with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or apples. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost. Depending on your preferences, you can adjust the amount of sugar, especially if the fruits are very sweet.

Nutritional information

This cake offers a combination of carbohydrates and proteins from the eggs and flour, while the plums add fiber and vitamins. Each serving contains approximately 220 calories, making it an acceptable dessert, especially if consumed in moderation. Plums are known for their beneficial effects on digestion and heart health, making this cake a healthier choice compared to other desserts.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like peaches, apples, or cherries.

2. How can I store the cake?
The cake stores well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can refrigerate it to prolong its shelf life.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

4. What other drinks pair well with this cake?
In addition to green tea and coffee, a semi-dry white wine or a fruit punch can perfectly complement this dessert.

Dare to try this plum cake with meringue topping! It is a simple and quick recipe, full of flavors and textures that will delight your senses. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, the result will always be delicious!