Puff pastry with plums

Puff Pastry Cake with Plums - a Delicious and Easy Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8

Who doesn't love a dessert that combines the crispy texture of puff pastry with the juicy sweetness of plums? This puff pastry cake with plums is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a gathering with friends or a family meal. A simple yet impressive recipe that can quickly become everyone's favorite, thanks to its refined taste and appealing appearance.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Fruit desserts have a long-standing tradition in global cuisine, and the combination of fresh fruits with a crispy crust is one of the most cherished. Puff pastry, with its delicate and airy layers, has been created over time to add elegance to desserts. Plums, with their natural aroma and sweetness, perfectly complement this dessert, providing both a delightful contrast of textures and an explosion of flavor.

Necessary Ingredients

- 1 package of puff pastry (approximately 250 g)
- 700 g of plums (pitted)
- 400 ml of cream (preferably high-fat)
- Granulated sugar (to taste, approximately 100 g)
- Cinnamon (to taste, 1-2 tablespoons)

Ingredient Details

- Puff Pastry: Buy a quality package of puff pastry, preferably from a bakery or supermarket. Make sure it is well refrigerated for the best results.
- Plums: Choose ripe plums, but not overly soft, so they don't break down during baking. Plums are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them an excellent source of nutrients.
- Cream: Use fresh, high-fat cream to achieve a rich and delicate cream that will balance the sweetness of the plums.

Preparation Technique

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This step is essential to ensure even baking of the puff pastry.

2. Prepare the puff pastry: Remove the puff pastry from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 5-10 minutes. Then, roll it out on a clean, lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.

3. Portioning: Using a knife or spatula, cut the puff pastry into squares of about 10x10 cm, but you can adjust the size according to your preferences. If you want larger or smaller servings, adjust the size as you like.

4. Preparing the plums: Cut the plums in half, remove the pits, and if desired, you can slice each half into thinner wedges. Arrange the plums on each square of puff pastry, making sure to distribute them evenly.

5. Seasoning: Sprinkle granulated sugar and cinnamon over the plums arranged on the pastry. Don't be afraid to be generous! The cinnamon will add a warm and comforting aroma, while the sugar will caramelize during baking, providing a delicious taste.

6. Add the cream: In a bowl, whip the cream until fluffy. You can add a little extra sugar if desired to enhance the sweetness. Then, place a spoonful of cream over each square with plums, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

7. Baking: Carefully place the puff pastry squares on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Put the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.

8. Cooling: Once baked, let the cakes cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack. This step will help maintain the crispy texture.

Helpful Tips

- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can experiment with other fruits, such as apples or peaches, or try adding chopped nuts for an extra crunch.
- Serve the cake warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and the combination will be perfect.
- You can drizzle the cake with a little caramel sauce or melted chocolate for a more indulgent look.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of dough for this recipe?
Yes, you can use tart dough or pastry dough, but the result will differ in texture and taste.

2. How can I store the cake after it has been baked?
It is recommended to consume the cake on the same day, but if you have leftovers, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

3. Is it possible to freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake before baking. Arrange the puff pastry squares with plums on a tray and place them in the freezer. Once they are firm, you can transfer them to an airtight container. When you're ready to bake them, let them thaw and follow the baking steps.

Nutritional Benefits

Plums are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them excellent for digestive health and skin maintenance. Additionally, the cream adds a source of calcium, essential for bone health. Although it is a dessert, this cake can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Puff pastry cake with plums is a simple yet extraordinary dessert that can bring a smile to anyone's face. With every bite, you'll feel the flavors and textures blend, transforming a simple ingredient into something special. So, get started and share this recipe with your loved ones! Don't forget to enjoy the cooking process and bring a bit of your creativity into every dish. Bon appétit!