Ingredients

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Plums

Start by cutting the plums in half and removing the pits. It is essential to use ripe Hungarian plums for the best flavor in the cake.

Step 2

Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter at room temperature with 150 grams of granulated sugar and a pinch of salt for about 5 minutes. This process will create a light and fluffy mixture.

Next, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring to *mix well after each addition*. This creates a smooth batter.

Combine the flour and baking powder, then sift them into the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until just combined. The resulting batter should be of medium thickness, perfect for holding the plums.

Step 3

Prepare for Baking

Grease a 22 cm (approximately 9-inch) round cake pan with butter and evenly spread the cake batter into the pan.

Now, place the plums on top of the batter with the cut side facing down. Be careful not to push them into the batter, as this will help keep the cake juicy.

Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon and the extra sugar over the plums to create a beautiful crust while baking.

Step 4

Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Once preheated, place the cake in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.

After baking, let the cake cool down. If desired, you can store it in the freezer for later use.

Step 5

Serve the Cake

You can serve this plum cake warm or chilled, and it pairs wonderfully with whipped cream. If you choose to freeze it, remember to thaw it before reheating it at 150 degrees Celsius (300 degrees Fahrenheit).

Servings

When it comes to enjoying your New York Times Plum Cake, the options are endless! Imagine serving it warm from the oven, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream 🍦 or a scoop of vanilla ice cream 🍨 for the perfect sweet contrast to the tart plums. This cake is also fabulous with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top, bringing a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

If you’re looking for a unique touch, try pairing it with a side of fresh berries or a berry compote. The acidity from the berries perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake! With its rustic appearance, it’s also a stunning centerpiece for any gathering, making it the star of your picnic 🍉 or cozy afternoon tea ☕.

Equipment

9-Inch Round Cake Pan

The perfect size for this cake. Remember to grease it well for easy removal!

Variations

Gluten-Free Variation: To make this cake gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with an equal amount of a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the baking powder used is gluten-free as well! 🍞

Vegan Variation: For a vegan twist, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg). Use plant-based butter or coconut oil in place of regular butter and a non-dairy milk in your batter 🥥. Enjoy the same delicious flavor while catering to your dietary preferences!

Faq

  • What if I don’t have fresh plums available?

    You can use frozen or canned plums for this recipe, just make sure to drain any excess liquid for the best texture!

  • Can I make this cake ahead of time?

    Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature. Just make sure to keep it covered.

  • How do I know when the cake is done baking?

    The cake is done when it is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it as ovens may vary.

  • Can I add different fruits to the cake?

    Definitely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like cherries or peaches. Just remember to adjust the sugar depending on the fruit’s sweetness.

  • Why did my cake come out dense?

    This could be due to overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined for the best texture!

  • Can I freeze this cake?

    Yes! Slice it up and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Just thaw it out at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition facts

Delicious Plum Cake Recipe from New York Times
Recipe Yield:8 servings
Calories:Approximate calorie range per serving.
Calories (Min - Max):190 - 220
Total Fat:8g
Saturated Fat:5g
Protein:3g
Total Carbohydrate:30g
Total Sugars:15g