Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 10 ripe plums
- 4.5 ounces (about 0.5 cup) unsalted butter
- 4.5 ounces (about 0.5 cup) sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 10.5 ounces (about 2.5 cups) flour
- 0.5 cup warm milk
- 3 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
For the Topping
- Sugar to sprinkle
- Sliced almonds to sprinkle
For Serving
- Powdered sugar to sprinkle
- Ice cream (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
Essential for blending ingredients. Use one for wet ingredients and another for dry items.
- Electric Mixer
Speeds up the creaming process and ensures a smooth batter. A handheld mixer works just as well if you don’t have a stand mixer.
- 9.5-Inch Cake Pan
Grease it well to prevent sticking. You could also use parchment paper for an easy release.
- Sifter
A must for getting that ultra-fine flour texture and preventing lumps in the batter.
- Oven
Make sure it’s preheated to 347°F (175°C) to achieve even baking.
- Cooling Rack
Allows the cake to cool evenly without making the bottom soggy. This is crucial for getting the perfect texture.
Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the Batter
Step 2
Bake the Cake
Step 3
Serve the Cake
Servings
Elevate your plum cake experience with some delightful serving ideas. 🌟
Sprinkle with powdered sugar: A light dusting of sweet powdered sugar turns your cake into a visual masterpiece and adds that extra touch of sweetness. ✨
Pair with Ice Cream: Nothing complements a warm slice of plum cake better than a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The hot-and-cold contrast will make your taste buds dance with joy. 🍨
Top with Whipped Cream: For a lighter option, opt for a dollop of whipped cream. It's airy, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious! Add some fresh mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon for that extra flair. 🍥
Serve with Coffee or Tea: A hot beverage pairs wonderfully with plum cake. Try it with a cup of rich coffee or delicate tea for a full-flavored experience. ☕️
Variations
Want to make this amazing cake but need a gluten-free or vegan version? No problem! 🌱
Gluten-Free Option:
- Replace the flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure it's a 1:1 substitute for best results.
Vegan Option:
- Swap the butter for a plant-based butter.
- Use flax eggs in place of regular eggs. (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
- Substitute cow’s milk with almond milk or any plant-based milk of your choice.
Faq
- Do I need to peel the plums?
No need! The skin adds a wonderful texture and color to the cake. Plus, it's loaded with nutrients. 🍑
- Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with peaches, apricots, or even berries. 🍑🍓🍒
- How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, you're good to go! A gooey batter means it needs more time. ⏱️
- How important is it to preheat the oven?
Very important! Preheating ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start. This makes a big difference in both texture and taste. 🍰
- Can I add spices to the batter?
Sure thing! Cinnamon or nutmeg would add a lovely warmth to the flavor profile. Feel free to get creative!
- Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in a zip-lock bag. It should keep for up to three months. Simply thaw and enjoy later.