Poppy seed cake with plums

Poppy Seed and Plum Cake: a Delicious and Comforting Recipe

If you are looking for a cake that combines the intense flavors of poppy seeds with the juicy sweetness of plums, you have come to the right place! This poppy seed and plum cake is not only a tasty dessert but also an excellent choice for a snack between meals or a perfect accompaniment to a fragrant coffee.

Brief History

The poppy seed and plum cake is a wonderful example of using simple ingredients with a remarkable impact. In many cultures, poppy seeds are considered a symbol of abundance and prosperity, while plums, with their soft and aromatic texture, add a touch of elegance and refinement. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be customized according to your preferences, making it a favorite among friends and family.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 10-12

Ingredients

- 200 g flour (plus a little for dusting the pan)
- 250 g poppy seeds
- 300 ml milk
- 150 g sugar (plus 1 tablespoon)
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Zest of one lemon
- 10-15 plums (depending on size)

Ingredient Details

Poppy seeds add a unique flavor and pleasant texture to the cake, while also providing nutritional benefits such as a rich content of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Plums, on the other hand, are excellent sources of fiber and vitamins, plus they add a sweet-tart contrast that makes the cake even more appealing.

Step 1: Preparing the Poppy Seeds

Start by adding the poppy seeds to a pot with 300 ml of milk. Boil for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Once boiled, remove the pot from the heat and let the poppy seeds cool completely. This step will help intensify the flavors and achieve a finer texture.

Step 2: Preparing the Plums

Meanwhile, prepare the plums. Wash them well, cut them in half, and remove the pits. Sprinkle one tablespoon of sugar over them and set aside to macerate slightly. This will allow the plums to release their natural juice, making them even more delicious.

Step 3: Preparing the Dough

In a large bowl, mix the butter and 150 g of sugar until creamy and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the lemon zest and mix again.

In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the cooled poppy seeds. Mix well until you have a homogeneous dough.

Step 4: Separating the Dough

Set aside 2 tablespoons of dough. To the remaining dough, add a little flour if necessary to achieve a firmer consistency. Wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This step helps to firm up the dough and achieve a better texture.

Step 5: Assembling the Cake

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a pan with butter and sprinkle a little flour on the bottom to prevent sticking. Spread the dough in the pan, smoothing it out to cover the base.

Add the macerated plums in an even layer over the dough, making sure to distribute them evenly. From the reserved dough, grate a generous amount over the plums to cover them.

Step 6: Baking

Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cooling and Serving

Once the cake is ready, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can serve it plain or with a dollop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream to add extra flavor.

Practical Tips

- Make sure the butter is at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough.
- You can substitute plums with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or apples, for a different variation.
- If you do not like the intense flavor of poppy seeds, you can reduce the amount to 150 g.
- The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole poppy seeds?
Yes, but ground poppy seeds will incorporate better into the dough and release more flavors.

2. How can I make the cake less sweet?
Reducing the amount of sugar in the mixture is an option, but you can compensate with the plum filling that has a naturally sweet taste.

3. Is it possible to make the cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use almond flour or rice flour instead of wheat flour, but you will need to adjust the amount of liquids.

This poppy seed and plum cake is not only a delight but also a wonderful way to impress your family and friends. By trying this recipe, you will enjoy a perfect combination of textures and flavors that will turn any meal into a celebration! Whether you serve it for a special occasion or simply as a treat during the week, this cake will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!