Plum cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe plums with a soft, buttery cake. It’s an easy-to-make treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or as a simple dessert after dinner, this cake is sure to please.
Why Make This Recipe
This plum cake recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and straightforward cake. The use of fresh plums adds a natural sweetness and beautiful color to the dish. It’s also a great way to use up any extra plums you might have. Plus, the recipe requires minimal ingredients and can be made in under an hour, making it a hassle-free option for bakers of all levels.
How to Make Plum Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups plums, pitted and sliced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
- Arrange the sliced plums on top of the batter.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool before dusting with powdered sugar and serving.
How to Serve Plum Cake
Plum cake can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra special touch, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
How to Store Plum Cake
To store plum cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. You can also freeze the cake; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
Tips to Make Plum Cake
- Make sure to use ripe plums for the best flavor.
- Don’t over mix the batter; mix until just combined for a lighter cake.
- Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Variation
You can add nuts such as walnuts or almonds to the batter for a little crunch. Additionally, feel free to mix in other fruits like peaches or cherries alongside the plums for a fruity twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen plums for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen plums. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid extra moisture in the cake.
2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. How can I tell when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is done. If there is wet batter, keep baking for a few more minutes.
